Southwest Airlines has implemented a new boarding procedure requiring flight attendants to report to their assigned gates 35 minutes before departure for a majority of its domestic flights. This change, which took effect on August 1, prompts passengers to arrive at their gates approximately five minutes earlier than previously instructed.
The adjustment primarily affects flights operated on Boeing 737-800 NG and 737 MAX-8 aircraft, which constitute about 65% of the airline's fleet. This new protocol aims to reduce unnecessary delays. Flights utilizing smaller Boeing 737-700 aircraft will continue with the previous 30-minute pre-departure gate arrival for cabin crews, while international and Hawaii flights will maintain a 45-minute pre-departure requirement.
This change follows Southwest's decision in May 2025 to end its "Two Bags Fly Free" policy. The discontinuation of this policy has led to an increase in passengers bringing carry-on luggage aboard flights. The airline also introduced assigned seating in January of this year, which has contributed to longer boarding times as passengers search for suitable overhead bin space.
Despite the adjustment, Southwest's new 35-minute boarding time remains shorter than that of many other major U.S. carriers. American Airlines typically begins boarding its Boeing 737s and Airbus A321s 40 minutes prior to departure, while Delta and United Airlines usually start their boarding processes around 40 minutes before departure.
Southwest historically emphasized rapid turnaround times, with a goal of completing deplaning, cleaning, and boarding within 25 minutes on many flights. This focus on efficiency has been a hallmark of the airline's operations.