Southwest Airlines has just extended its flight schedule, allowing bookings through November 1st. If you have upcoming travel plans for late summer or early fall, now is a great time to check fares and reserve flights.
How Southwest’s Schedule Release is Different
Unlike most airlines that release their schedules nearly a year in advance, Southwest follows a unique rolling schedule approach. Instead of having flights available far in advance, they extend their booking window in batches every few months. This means travelers looking to book Southwest flights for future dates must keep an eye on these extensions to secure the best options.
Why You Should Check Prices Now
One of the best strategies for booking Southwest flights is to check fares right after the schedule opens. Sometimes, prices are lower immediately following the release. However, Southwest frequently runs fare sales, so it’s worth monitoring your itinerary to see if a better deal comes along. Since Southwest offers free flight changes with no fees, you can rebook at a lower price if fares drop, and you’ll receive the difference in travel credits, or if you use Rapid Rewards points, you’ll receive a refund of the difference.
Southwest Flights Now on Google Flights and Kayak
A recent improvement for Southwest customers is that its flights are now searchable on Google Flights and Kayak. This makes it much easier to compare Southwest’s fares with other airlines to see if you’re getting the best deal. Remember, though, that Southwest includes two free checked bags, which can make a big difference when comparing total costs.
Don’t Forget About Boarding Strategy
One of the quirks of flying Southwest is its open seating policy, which means there are no assigned seats. To get a good seat, consider paying for EarlyBird Check-In, which automatically checks you in before the 24-hour mark. If you opt not to pay for EarlyBird, you’ll need to check in exactly 24 hours before departure to secure the best possible boarding position. If you miss that window, you may end up with a middle seat in the back. While Southwest has made news about offering premium seats and seat assignments, that’s not starting until 2026. “We are planning to begin offering booking for assigned and premium seating in the second half of 2025, and we are expected to begin operating with assigned and premium seating in 2026.”
Upcoming Schedule Extension
According to Southwest, the next batch of flights—including Thanksgiving and Christmas flights—will be released on March 20, 2025. On that date, the schedule will be available for sale through January 5, 2026 (subject to change).
Final Thoughts
Southwest’s rolling schedule releases can be a bit frustrating if you like to plan far in advance, but they also present opportunities to snag lower fares. With free checked bags and flexible change policies, Southwest remains a strong option for many travelers. Keep an eye on upcoming schedule extensions, compare fares using new search tools, and be strategic with your boarding options to make the most of your next trip. Happy travels!
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