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Southwest tweeted that it will introduce free Wi-Fi for Business Select travelers and extend free standby to all fares. While there's no confirmed date for these changes, the airline did say “soon,” so we're hoping this means sometime in 2023. The moves improve Southwest's existing polices, where business travelers still have to pay for Wi-Fi and Wanna Get Away fares don't include free same-day standby.
Here's what you should know about these impending changes.
Big changes coming soon! And by changes, we mean free same-day standby for all Customers, free Inflight Internet for Business Select fares, and more! Stay tuned! 👀 pic.twitter.com/mHWiCyaURQ
— Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) August 10, 2023
Free Standby on All Fares
Currently, only the following fares are eligible for free same-day standby:
- Business Select
- Anytime
- Wanna Get Away Plus
The cheapest fare — Wanna Get Away — may incur a fare difference charge for same-day standby at present. Eliminating this potential charge is excellent news for travelers who regularly book the cheapest Southwest Wanna Get Away fares.
If you are a Southwest A-List or A-List Preferred Member, this policy change will make very little difference. You're already entitled to free same-day standby as a perk of your elite status.
Related: A Complete Guide to Southwest Rapid Rewards.
Free Wi-Fi For Southwest Business Select Passengers
Business Select is Southwest's premium fare type, but it doesn't currently include free Wi-Fi. This move aligns Southwest with Delta and JetBlue, providing premium cabin travelers with complimentary internet access during flights.
Remember that A-List Preferred Members will not see much difference with this new policy since they already benefit from free Wi-Fi when flying.
Even United has mentioned it would like to do the same but is working on onboard Wi-Fi first. Free Wi-Fi for business travelers is the natural progression of technology. And it is only a matter of time before almost every airline offers free Wi-Fi for premium travel.
If you're looking to get free internet on flights but don't want to buy these more expensive fares, remember that the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card provides up to 365 inflight Wi-Fi credits annually.
Related: How to Choose the Right Southwest Airlines Credit Card
Our Take
Anytime an airline or hotel improves its offerings and enhances its perks and benefits, that's excellent news. On the one hand, Southwest's announcement will not shake the world of air travel. Nonetheless, these are great additions that will offer a small benefit to eligible travelers.
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