Southwest Airlines' Early Bird Check-In is a paid service that automatically checks passengers in 36 hours before their flight departure, instead of the usual 24 hours. This earlier check-in improves the chances of getting a better boarding position and preferred seating, although it does not guarantee the very first boarding spots (which are reserved for Business Select passengers). Passengers who purchase Early Bird Check-In get their boarding position assigned automatically in advance, freeing them from rushing to check in exactly at 24 hours. However, they still need to check in at some point to obtain their boarding pass, but the boarding position is already secured at 36 hours. The service costs between $15 and $25 per passenger and can significantly help those hoping for early boarding and overhead bin space. Early Bird Check-In is being discontinued starting January 26, 2026, due to changes in Southwest's boarding process. In summary, Early Bird Check-In works by:

• Automatically checking you in 36 hours before the flight
• Assigning a boarding position earlier than others who check in at 24 hours
• Increasing chances of earlier boarding and preferred seating
• Requiring final check-in to get the boarding pass, but the position is locked at 36 hours
• Costing an additional fee per passenger and per flight segment.