Are you tired of being disconnected from the world during your flights? Do you need to stay productive or entertained while soaring through the skies? Look no further! Southwest Airlines offers in-flight Wi-Fi on most of its aircraft, allowing you to stay connected with loved ones, respond to work emails, or simply stream your favorite shows. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of buying Wi-Fi on a Southwest flight, making sure you’re equipped with everything you need to know to stay online.
Does Southwest Airlines Offer In-Flight Wi-Fi?
The short answer is yes! Southwest Airlines has partnered with Anuvu, a leading provider of in-flight connectivity solutions, to offer high-speed Wi-Fi on most of its aircraft. This means you can expect to find Wi-Fi availability on around 90% of Southwest’s flights, with the remaining 10% being equipped in the near future.
How Much Does Wi-Fi Cost on Southwest Airlines?
The cost of Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines varies depending on the type of device you’re using and the duration of your flight.
Device-Based Pricing
- $8 per device: This is the standard rate for Wi-Fi access on Southwest Airlines. You can purchase this package on a per-device basis, making it suitable for passengers who only need to stay connected for a short period.
- $2 per device ( Messaging-only package): If you only need to access messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or iMessage, this package is an affordable option.
Flight-Based Pricing
- All-day pass: For longer flights or if you need to stay connected throughout your journey, an all-day pass is available for $19.95. This pass grants you access to Wi-Fi for the entire duration of your flight.
How to Buy Wi-Fi on a Southwest Flight
Now that you know the costs, it’s time to learn how to purchase Wi-Fi on your Southwest flight.
Before Your Flight
While you can buy Wi-Fi on board, we recommend purchasing it before your flight to ensure availability. Here’s how:
- Log in to your Southwest Airlines account or create one if you don’t have one already.
- Visit the “My Trips” section and select your upcoming flight.
- Click on “Purchase Wi-Fi” and follow the prompts to complete your purchase.
On Board
If you forgot to buy Wi-Fi before your flight or prefer to purchase it on board, here’s what you need to do:
- Once you’ve reached cruising altitude, open your device’s Wi-Fi settings and connect to the “SouthwestWiFi” network.
- Open a web browser and navigate to wifi.southwestairlines.com.
- Select your desired Wi-Fi package and follow the payment instructions.
Tips and Tricks for Using Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines
To ensure a seamless Wi-Fi experience on your Southwest flight, keep the following tips in mind:
Device Compatibility
- Make sure your device is Wi-Fi enabled and supports the 802.11b/g/n standard.
- Some devices, like e-readers or older smartphones, might not support in-flight Wi-Fi.
Streaming and Data-Heavy Activities
- Be mindful of your data usage, as streaming and heavy downloading can impact the overall network performance.
- Websites and services that require high-bandwidth, like video conferencing or online gaming, might not function as expected.
Power Management
- Bring a fully charged device and consider packing a portable power bank to ensure you stay connected throughout the flight.
Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi Speed and Quality
Southwest Airlines’ in-flight Wi-Fi is powered by Anuvu’s advanced satellite technology, which provides a fast and reliable internet connection. You can expect speeds of up to 10 Mbps per device, making it suitable for most online activities, including:
- Browsing social media and news websites
- Sending and receiving emails
- Streaming music and videos (although some restrictions may apply)
Keep in mind that Wi-Fi speeds may vary depending on the number of passengers connected and the quality of the satellite signal.
In-Flight Entertainment and Productivity
Staying productive or entertained during your flight is easier than ever with Southwest Airlines’ in-flight Wi-Fi. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Stay Productive
- Respond to work emails or catch up on tasks
- Use cloud-based productivity apps like Google Drive or Microsoft Office Online
- Make video calls to colleagues or clients
Stream Your Favorite Content
- Catch up on your favorite TV shows or movies
- Listen to music or podcasts
- Browse social media or online news websites
Conclusion
Buying Wi-Fi on a Southwest flight is a straightforward process that can be done before your flight or on board. With prices starting at just $8 per device, staying connected at 30,000 feet has never been more accessible. Remember to follow our tips and tricks to ensure a seamless Wi-Fi experience, and don’t forget to stay entertained and productive during your flight. Happy flying!
How do I know if I can purchase Wi-Fi on my Southwest Airlines flight?
You can purchase Wi-Fi on most Southwest Airlines flights, but it’s not available on all of them. To check if your flight offers Wi-Fi, look for the “Wi-Fi” symbol on the Southwest Airlines website or mobile app when booking your flight or checking in. You can also ask a flight attendant or gate agent if Wi-Fi is available on your specific flight.
If your flight does offer Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to purchase it once you’re onboard and the plane reaches 30,000 feet. The flight attendants will make an announcement when Wi-Fi is available, and you can then use your device to connect to the “SouthwestWiFi” network and follow the prompts to purchase and access the internet.
How much does Wi-Fi cost on Southwest Airlines?
The cost of Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines varies depending on the type of device you’re using and the length of your flight. For a single device, Wi-Fi costs $8 per hour or $15 for the entire flight. If you’re using multiple devices, you can purchase a bundle for $15 per hour or $30 for the entire flight.
Keep in mind that Wi-Fi prices are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the Southwest Airlines website or mobile app for the most up-to-date pricing information. If you’re unsure about the cost of Wi-Fi on your specific flight, you can also ask a flight attendant for more information.
What devices can I use to connect to Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines?
You can use a variety of devices to connect to Wi-Fi on Southwest Airlines, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. As long as your device is Wi-Fi enabled, you should be able to connect to the “SouthwestWiFi” network and access the internet.
Just make sure your device is fully charged, as power outlets are limited on the plane. You may also want to consider bringing a portable charger to keep your device charged throughout the flight.
Can I use my Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi to stream videos or music?
While Wi-Fi is available on Southwest Airlines, the internet speeds may not be suitable for streaming videos or music. The airline’s Wi-Fi network is designed to support general browsing, email, and messaging, but it’s not intended for heavy data usage like streaming.
If you need to access streaming services during your flight, you may want to consider downloading content beforehand or using a different method, such as an in-flight entertainment system (if available).
Will my Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi connection be secure?
When you connect to the “SouthwestWiFi” network, your data will be transmitted over a secure connection. The airline’s Wi-Fi provider, Anuvu, uses industry-standard encryption to protect your data and ensure a secure browsing experience.
However, as with any public Wi-Fi network, it’s still important to take precautions to protect your personal information and devices. Make sure you’re using strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and keeping your devices and antivirus software up to date.
Can I use my Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi to make voice or video calls?
Southwest Airlines does not allow voice or video calls on its Wi-Fi network, as it wants to ensure a peaceful and respectful environment for all passengers. This policy is in place to prevent disruptions and distractions during the flight.
If you need to make a call or send a message, you can use your device’s cellular network or wait until the plane lands and you’re back on the ground.
What if I experience issues with my Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi connection?
If you’re having trouble connecting to the “SouthwestWiFi” network or experiencing issues with your Wi-Fi connection, you can contact the airline’s customer support team for assistance. They’ll be able to troubleshoot the problem and help you get back online.
You can also ask a flight attendant for help, as they may be able to reset the Wi-Fi network or provide additional guidance. Remember to be patient and courteous, as the flight attendants are there to ensure your safety and comfort during the flight.