As the world becomes increasingly connected, staying online even at 30,000 feet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. For travelers, particularly those who need to stay productive or entertained during long flights, in-flight WiFi is a blessing. Southwest Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the United States, offers WiFi on most of its flights. But how do you purchase WiFi on Southwest? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of buying WiFi on Southwest, the costs involved, and some helpful tips to make the most of your in-flight internet experience.
Is WiFi Available on All Southwest Flights?
Before we dive into the purchasing process, it’s essential to know if WiFi is available on your specific Southwest flight. The good news is that WiFi is available on most Southwest flights, including domestic and international routes. However, there are some exceptions:
- Short-haul flights: WiFi is not available on flights under 250 miles.
- Some international flights: WiFi is not available on select international flights, particularly those to and from Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.
- Older aircraft: A few older aircraft in Southwest’s fleet do not have WiFi capabilities.
To confirm if WiFi is available on your specific flight, check the Southwest website or mobile app, or ask a customer service representative during check-in or at the gate.
How to Purchase WiFi on Southwest
Now that you know if WiFi is available on your flight, let’s move on to the purchasing process. Buying WiFi on Southwest is relatively straightforward and can be done in a few ways:
Option 1: Purchase Through the Southwest Website
You can purchase WiFi access on the Southwest website up to 24 hours before your flight. Here’s how:
- Log in to your Southwest account on the website.
- Click on “My Trips” and select your flight.
- Scroll down to the “WiFi” section and click “Buy Now.”
- Choose your WiFi package (more on that below).
- Pay using your credit or debit card.
Option 2: Purchase Through the Southwest Mobile App
You can also purchase WiFi through the Southwest mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices. Here’s how:
- Open the Southwest app and log in to your account.
- Tap on “My Trips” and select your flight.
- Scroll down to the “WiFi” section and tap “Buy Now.”
- Choose your WiFi package.
- Pay using your credit or debit card.
Option 3: Purchase Onboard
If you prefer to purchase WiFi onboard, you can do so using the Southwest inflight entertainment app on your device. Here’s how:
- Connect to the Southwest WiFi network on your device.
- Open the Southwest inflight entertainment app.
- Select “WiFi” and choose your package.
- Pay using your credit or debit card.
WiFi Packages and Pricing
Southwest offers two WiFi packages: the “Messaging” package and the “Surf” package.
Messaging Package ($2.95 per device)
- Enables messaging on WhatsApp, iMessage, and Facebook Messenger.
- Allows for text-only browsing on select websites.
Surf Package ($7.95 per device)
- Enables full internet access, including browsing, emailing, and streaming.
- Supports most online activities, except for streaming high-definition content.
Note that prices may vary depending on the duration of your flight and the device you’re using.
Tips and Tricks for Using WiFi on Southwest
To make the most of your in-flight WiFi experience, here are some helpful tips:
Choose the Right Package
If you only need to stay connected through messaging apps, the Messaging package is a cost-effective option. However, if you need to access the internet for work or entertainment, the Surf package is a better choice.
Be Mindful of Data Speeds
In-flight WiFi speeds may not be as fast as what you’re used to on the ground. Be patient and plan accordingly, especially if you need to upload or download large files.
Use a VPN for Security
As with any public WiFi network, it’s essential to use a virtual private network (VPN) to secure your online connections. This will help protect your personal data and online activities from potential threats.
Take Advantage of WiFi-Enabled Entertainment
Southwest’s inflight entertainment app offers a range of movies, TV shows, and games that can be streamed directly to your device. Take advantage of these options to stay entertained during your flight.
Conclusion
Purchasing WiFi on Southwest is a relatively simple process that can be done through their website, mobile app, or onboard. By choosing the right package and being mindful of data speeds, you can stay connected and productive during your flight. Remember to take advantage of Southwest’s inflight entertainment options and use a VPN to secure your online connections. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be ready to take to the skies and stay connected at 30,000 feet.
How much does WiFi cost on Southwest Airlines?
The cost of WiFi on Southwest Airlines varies depending on the type of device you’re using and the duration of your flight. For laptops and tablets, the cost is $8 per device per day. For smartphones, the cost is $2 per device per day. However, if you’re an A-List Preferred member, you can enjoy free WiFi on all your devices.
It’s worth noting that the daily WiFi pass is valid from the time you purchase it until 11:59 PM CST, regardless of the number of flights you take. This means that if you have a layover or are taking multiple flights in one day, you only need to purchase the pass once.
How do I purchase WiFi on Southwest Airlines?
To purchase WiFi on Southwest Airlines, simply connect to the “SouthwestWiFi” network on your device. Once connected, you’ll be redirected to the Southwest Airlines WiFi portal, where you can select your device type and purchase a WiFi pass using a credit card.
Make sure to have your credit card information ready, as the purchase process is completed online. Once your payment is processed, you’ll be granted access to the internet for the remainder of the day.
What is the WiFi speed like on Southwest Airlines?
The WiFi speed on Southwest Airlines is generally fast enough to support most online activities, including browsing, email, and streaming. The airline uses a satellite-based WiFi system, which provides a reliable and consistent connection even at 30,000 feet.
According to Southwest Airlines, the WiFi speed is typically around 10-20 Mbps, which is comparable to a standard home internet connection. However, the actual speed may vary depending on the number of passengers using the WiFi at the same time.
Can I stream video and audio on Southwest Airlines WiFi?
Yes, you can stream video and audio on Southwest Airlines WiFi, but be aware that the connection speed may vary. The airline recommends using low-to-medium bandwidth streaming services, such as music streaming apps or standard-definition video streaming.
However, keep in mind that high-bandwidth activities like 4K or HD video streaming may not work as smoothly due to the satellite-based connection. But for most passengers, the WiFi should be sufficient for streaming their favorite shows or listening to music.
Is Southwest Airlines WiFi available on all flights?
Southwest Airlines offers WiFi on nearly all its flights, including domestic and international routes. However, there may be some exceptions, such as short flights or those operated by smaller aircraft.
If you’re unsure whether your flight will have WiFi, you can check the Southwest Airlines website or mobile app for more information. You can also ask a flight attendant once you’re on board.
Can I use my Southwest Airlines WiFi pass on multiple devices?
No, your Southwest Airlines WiFi pass is tied to the specific device you used to purchase it. If you want to connect multiple devices to the WiFi, you’ll need to purchase a separate pass for each device.
However, if you’re an A-List Preferred member, you can enjoy free WiFi on all your devices, so you won’t need to purchase separate passes.
Is Southwest Airlines WiFi secure?
Yes, Southwest Airlines takes the security of its WiFi network seriously. The airline uses industry-standard encryption and authentication protocols to protect passenger data.
When you connect to the Southwest Airlines WiFi, your data is encrypted and transmitted securely over the satellite-based connection. However, as with any public WiFi network, it’s still important to take precautions to protect your personal data, such as using a VPN and avoiding sensitive online activities.