Southwest Wi-Fi Guide
Southwest’s Wi-Fi and entertainment options allow you to stream live TV, text your friends, or browse the web. In this guide, we’ll break down how to connect, how much it costs, and even how to get free Southwest Wi-Fi.
Does Southwest Have Wi-Fi?
Yes! Southwest offers Wi-Fi on most of its flights. The speed and availability may vary depending on the aircraft and your flight route, but you can generally stay connected throughout domestic flights. However, on international routes, Wi-Fi is available only during the domestic portion of your trip.
Since Southwest doesn't have seatback screens, you’ll need your own device to access Southwest's entertainment options.
Enjoy free movies while connected to Southwest Wi-Fi.
How to Connect to Southwest Wi-Fi
Connecting to Southwest Wi-Fi is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Turn your device to airplane mode and turn on Wi-Fi.
- Look for the "Southwest WiFi" network in your device’s network list and connect.
- Open your web browser and go to southwestwifi.com.
- From there, you can access free entertainment or pay for full internet access.
Once you’re connected, you can enjoy live TV, movies, music, and free messaging.
Easily connect to Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi during your flight.
How Much Does Southwest Wi-Fi Cost?
Southwest charges $8 per device, per flight for Wi-Fi access. This allows you to browse the internet, check emails, and access social media. However, Southwest blocks high-bandwidth applications like Netflix, Zoom, and HBO Max to maintain stability.
If you have a connecting flight, you’ll need to pay $8 for each leg of your trip unless you qualify for free Wi-Fi.
Southwest Airlines offers free inflight entertainment and affordable Wi-Fi options.
How To Get Free Southwest Wi-Fi
If you want to avoid paying for Wi-Fi, there are a couple of ways to get it for free:
1. Fly Business Select
Passengers flying on Business Select fares get complimentary Wi-Fi, along with priority boarding and other perks.
2. Earn A-List Preferred Status
Southwest’s top-tier elite members with A-List Preferred status can enjoy free Wi-Fi on all flights, including international routes. To qualify, you need either:
- 50 one-way flights or
- 70,000 Tier-Qualifying Points in a calendar year.
3. Use the Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card
This credit card provides 365 $8 Wi-Fi credits each year. When you pay for Wi-Fi using this card, you’ll receive an automatic reimbursement on your statement.
What Entertainment Comes with Southwest Wi-Fi?
Southwest’s free inflight entertainment includes:
Live TV Channels
Watch popular live TV channels like:
- ABC
- CNN
- ESPN
- NFL Network
- FOX News
Catch live TV shows and sports with Southwest's free inflight entertainment.
On-Demand TV
You can stream TV shows like "The Office" and "Parks and Recreation" without paying extra.
Movies
Southwest offers a selection of free movies, including new releases, which you can stream directly in your browser.
Music
Enjoy free music through iHeartRadio.
Free Messaging
Stay in touch with friends and family using iMessage and WhatsApp.
Flight Tracker
Keep track of your flight’s location with Southwest’s flight tracker.
Can I Buy Southwest Wi-Fi in Advance?
Currently, Southwest does not offer the option to pre-purchase Wi-Fi before your flight. You can only pay for it once you’re on board by accessing southwestwifi.com.
FAQs about Southwest Wi-Fi
Is Southwest Wi-Fi reliable?
Wi-Fi reliability depends on the aircraft and route, but Southwest continues to improve its service by increasing bandwidth. For simple activities like messaging, you shouldn't see any issues.
Can I stream Netflix on Southwest Wi-Fi?
No, Southwest blocks high-bandwidth applications like Netflix and Zoom to maintain stable connectivity for all passengers.
Is Wi-Fi available on all Southwest flights?
Most Southwest flights offer Wi-Fi, but availability can vary based on the aircraft and whether the flight is domestic or international.
How much is Southwest Wi-Fi for connecting flights?
You’ll need to pay $8 per device, per flight. For a trip with a layover, the fee will apply to both flight legs.
Does Southwest provide USB charging ports?
Southwest is adding USB-A and USB-C power ports on newer aircraft, so charging options may be available depending on the plane.
Can I Get Free Southwest Wi-Fi With T-Mobile?
No. T-Mobile is not a partner with Southwest Airlines and does not offer any free Wi-Fi on Southwest flights. You would have to fly Alaska Airlines or United Airlines to get access to T-Mobile free Wi-Fi.
What Is the Southwest Wi-Fi Website?
To access Southwest’s Wi-Fi services and entertainment portal, go to southwestwifi.com once you’re connected to the onboard Wi-Fi network. This site provides access to both free and paid options, including live TV, movies, music, and full internet access.
Can I use my Southwest credit card to get free Wi-Fi?
Yes! The Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card offers 365 annual Wi-Fi credits, making inflight internet free for frequent travelers.
Final Thoughts
Southwest is keeping up with the times when it comes to Wi-Fi and inflight entertainment. Whether you're binge-watching "Parks and Recreation," tracking your flight, or texting your friends mid-air, they've got you covered. And while $8 for Wi-Fi isn’t bad, it's even better if you can score it for free with elite status or the right credit card.
So next time you fly, don’t forget to connect, sit back, and enjoy the ride. Just make sure your phone’s charged, your movies are downloaded (just in case), and you’re ready to stay connected at 30,000 feet. Safe travels and happy scrolling!