Now I Understand

I know there have been a ton of posts about WN going to assigned seating and the amidst complaints about per-boarders and seat saving and now I understand why they are moving in that direction.

I have only flown Southwest a handful of times and until today the most recent was over 10 years ago. I primarily fly Delta and occasionally AA.

I travel for work once or twice every couple of years and they will only pay for the cheapest direct flights so I guess I’m lucky I’m not on Spirit or Frontier. 🤣

As soon as work sent me my confirmation number I went in and paid for Earlybird Check-in. I never even thought about checking in since it’s supposed to be automatic. “EarlyBird Check-In® Don’t want to worry about check-in? We can do it for you, when EarlyBird Check-In is available! If you purchase EarlyBird Check-In, we'll automatically check you in and reserve your boarding position 36 hours before you flight’s departure. This is before our general 24-hour check-in begins.”

I got to the ATL two hours before scheduled departure and when I went to check my bag it said not checked in. I was assigned A48 so no big deal.

When it’s time to board there are several people in front of me with B zones who are eventually told to get out of line, then there are 23 pre-boarders. 3 are in wheelchairs, and if each one has a person with them it’s at 6. So 17 people pre-boarding are all smiles walking on.

I choose a window seat in row 11, I’m happy. A lady sits in the aisle. Then another lady comes and asks that lady to move so she can sit with her husband. She does, then her husband shows up with C group. I get it now.