Missing a flight is a frustrating experience—especially if it throws off the rest of your travel plans. If you’ve encountered a Southwest Airlines missed flight, you're probably asking yourself: Can I board a later flight with Southwest after missing my original one?

The good news is that Southwest Airlines offers one of the more flexible missed flight policies among major U.S. carriers. However, your options will depend on several factors, including how and when you react to the situation. Let’s walk through what you need to know.

What Happens If You Miss a Southwest Airlines Flight?

Southwest Airlines has a “no-show” policy, but it’s far more traveler-friendly than most. If you miss your flight and don’t notify the airline, you’re considered a no-show, and you may forfeit the value of your ticket—especially if you booked a nonrefundable “Wanna Get Away” fare.

However, if you inform Southwest Airlines in advance—even up to 10 minutes before the scheduled departure—you may retain the value of your ticket as travel funds or be eligible for free same-day changes, depending on the fare type.

Can You Board a Later Flight After a Missed One?

Yes, in many cases you can board a later flight, but there are important steps to follow:

1. Act Quickly

Once you realize you're going to miss your flight, call Southwest Airlines or speak with an agent at the airport as soon as possible. If you're already past the boarding time but within the same travel day, you may be eligible for a same-day standby or confirmed seat on a later flight.

2. Same-Day Standby Policy

Southwest allows customers to stand by for a later flight on the same calendar day of their original booking. This is typically allowed if the same route has open seats, and you’ll only pay the fare difference if you’re upgrading to a different fare class.

3. Wanna Get Away Fares

With a Wanna Get Away fare, if you miss your flight and didn’t notify Southwest ahead of time, you may lose the full value of the ticket. But if you cancel or modify the flight at least 10 minutes before departure, you retain the fare as credit toward a future trip.

4. Anytime and Business Select Fares

If you booked an Anytime or Business Select ticket, you can rebook with more flexibility. These fares allow for free same-day changes, and missing a flight doesn’t automatically result in ticket forfeiture.

Steps to Take After a Southwest Airlines Missed Flight

1. Contact Southwest Immediately – Go to a service desk at the airport or call customer service.

2. Ask About Same-Day Flight Options – Check availability and stand-by eligibility.

3. Request Travel Funds If Necessary – If you missed your flight without prior notice, ask if the ticket value can be converted into travel credit.

4. Rebook Promptly – Prices for same-day or next-day flights may change quickly.

Need help figuring this all out in real-time? You’re not alone—and expert help is available.

Call for Personalized Help

Navigating the aftermath of a Southwest Airlines missed flight doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’re unsure how to rebook, worried about losing your ticket value, or simply need someone to walk you through your options, call us at +1-833-930-2006. Our travel experts are available to help you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can often board a later flight after a Southwest Airlines missed flight, especially if you act fast and communicate with the airline. Your options will vary based on your fare type and how quickly you respond. While missing a flight is never ideal, Southwest’s customer-friendly policies make it easier than most airlines to recover your plans.

If you need expert guidance or have trouble getting rebooked, reach out to Get Human Desk. We specialize in helping travelers resolve flight issues quickly and efficiently. Whether you're stuck at the airport or need help over the phone, Get Human Desk is just a call away at +1-833-930-2006.