Southwest Introduces New Fare Category

Travelers often seek both affordability and additional perks. Southwest Airlines aims to meet that demand with its new fare tier, Wanna Get Away Plus, which officially debuted on Tuesday, marking the first significant alteration in Southwest's fare system in 15 years.

What exactly is Wanna Get Away Plus?

Wanna Get Away Plus fares are priced higher than the lowest option, Wanna Get Away (currently the airline's most favored fare category), but lower than the top two tiers, Anytime and Business Select. Officials have not disclosed the specific price difference for Wanna Get Away Plus tickets compared to the cheaper options, as it will vary per flight.

While all Southwest fares come with two complimentary checked bags and no change fees, Wanna Get Away Plus fares also offer same-day standby and flight changes at no extra cost, along with enhanced frequent flyer point earning potential—up to eight points for every dollar spent.

Furthermore, Southwest now offers passengers who purchase a Wanna Get Away seat the chance to upgrade to Wanna Get Away Plus for access to additional perks and points. Although tickets from both Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus are non-refundable if a customer cancels, travelers will receive a flight credit for canceled flights. On the other hand, Anytime and Business Select fares are refundable.

New transferable flight credits

Southwest's Anytime and Business Select fares have also received enhancements, now offering transferable flight credits. This allows travelers to transfer their flight credit to another individual, provided that both are members of Southwest’s Rapid Rewards loyalty program. This transferable flight credit feature has been extended to the new Wanna Get Away Plus fare category as well.

“As more travelers take to the skies, we understand that increased flexibility and more options are crucial to our customers than ever before,” said Jonathan Clarkson, Southwest’s vice president of marketing, loyalty, and products, in a statement.

Priority boarding can soon be reserved ahead of time

Southwest Airlines has recently announced a range of new features aimed at enhancing the travel experience, including the ability to purchase an upgraded boarding position online in advance. This new feature is expected to roll out by late summer 2022. Known for its unassigned seating policy, Southwest is introducing this option to allow passengers to secure a spot in the first boarding group, positions A1-A15, as they become available.

This new boarding option is a key part of a $2 billion initiative that Southwest revealed earlier this month, designed to 'modernize the customer experience.' This initiative will enhance WiFi connectivity on flights, add power ports at every seat, expand overhead bin space, and offer an improved selection of in-flight entertainment, food, and beverages.

Reporting contributed by the Associated Press.