How to Change a Flight with Southwest Airlines?

To change a flight booking with Southwest go to their Change/Cancel option and enter your trip details or call Southwest airlines directly to modify your trips.

Plans shift, and Southwest Airlines makes it easy to adjust your flight without the usual hassle. Known for its flexible policies, Southwest allows you to modify your booking with minimal fees—and sometimes none at all. But how exactly does it work? What are the rules for free changes, and when might you face extra costs?

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to change your Southwest flight smoothly.

What is Southwest Airlines’ Flight Change Policy?

Southwest stands out for its passenger-friendly change policies. Unlike many airlines, they don’t charge change fees—ever. However, fare differences may apply. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Policies to Remember:

• No Change Fees – You won’t pay extra just for modifying your flight.
• Fare Difference Applies – If your new flight costs more, you’ll pay the difference. If it’s cheaper, you’ll get a travel credit for the balance.
• 24/7 Modifications – Change your flight anytime before departure.
• Same-Day Changes – Swap to an earlier or later flight on your travel date for free (subject to availability).

What Can You Change?

• Flight date & time
• Departure or arrival city (rebooking required)
• Upgrading to Business Select or EarlyBird Check-In®

What Can’t You Change?

• Passenger name (must cancel and rebook)
• Fully non-refundable Wanna Get Away fares (but you’ll still get travel credit)

How to Change Your Southwest Airlines Flight?

Southwest offers multiple ways to modify your booking—online, via phone, or at the airport. Here’s how each method works:

Option 1: Online (Fastest & Easiest)

• Go to Southwest.com and log into your account.
• Click "Manage Reservations" and enter your confirmation number & passenger name.
• Select "Change Flight" and choose your new flight.
• Review any fare differences (pay more or receive credit).
• Confirm changes and get an updated itinerary via email.

Best for: Quick modifications, checking fare differences instantly.

Option 2: Call Customer Service

• Dial 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792).
• Provide your booking details (confirmation #, name, flight info).
• Request changes—agents can check availability and apply credits.
• Receive an updated e-ticket via email.

Best for: Complex changes, using travel funds, or same-day switches.

Option 3: Airport Ticket Counter

If you’re already at the airport, visit a Southwest agent for:

• Same-day standby (free if seats are open).
• Last-minute flight swaps.
• Issues with online changes.

Option 4: Via Phone With Traveloways

• Dial +1 (888) 230-7346 to reach Traveloways for help changing your Southwest flight.
• Share your Southwest booking details with the Traveloways representative.
• Explore available flight change options and ask about any fare differences or fees that may apply.
• Confirm your new flight details and settle any applicable charges.
• Get a confirmation email from Traveloways with your updated travel itinerary and proceed with your plans.

Does Southwest Charge for Flight Changes?

Southwest never charges change fees. However:

• If your new flight is more expensive, you pay the difference.
• If your new flight is cheaper, you’ll receive the balance as a travel credit (valid for future flights).

Fare Type Breakdown:

Note: Travel funds from Wanna Get Away fares expire 1 year from the original booking.

What If Southwest Changes or Cancels Your Flight?

If Southwest modifies your flight (delay, cancellation, or schedule change), you have options:

• Free Rebooking – Choose any available flight at no extra cost.
• Full Refund – Request your money back, even on non-refundable tickets.
• Travel Credit – If you prefer, take the difference as credit for future use.

How to Claim Your Rights:

• Check your email for Southwest’s notification.
• Visit "Manage Reservations" to select a new flight.
• Call customer service if you prefer a refund.

Pro Tips for Hassle-Free Changes

• Book Anytime/Business Select for Max Flexibility – Easier modifications & refundable options.
• Use Travel Funds Before They Expire – Credits last 1 year from original booking.
• Check for Same-Day Swaps – Free changes if seats are open.
• Set Price Alerts – Rebook if fares drop and pocket the credit.

Why Choose Traveloways for Southwest Flight Changes?

Choose to adjust your next trip over the phone with Traveloways and get:

• Expert assistance with complex rebookings.
• Help maximize travel credits before they expire.
• Last-minute change solutions when flights fill up.
• Skip the hold times—we handle airline calls for you.

Need Help?

If self-service isn’t working or you’re stuck with fare differences, Traveloways can help. We negotiate changes, find loopholes, and save you money. Fly stress-free with Southwest’s flexible policies—and let us handle the fine print!