A Southwest Airlines missed flight can be a stressful moment, especially if you're running through the airport and arrive just as the gate door closes. Whether it was traffic, a delayed connection, or just bad timing, missing your flight is frustrating. The good news? Southwest Airlines is known for its customer-friendly policies — and in many cases, you can get on the next available flight.

But how soon can you rebook? Will you have to pay? Do you lose your fare completely? In this article, we’ll walk you through what happens after you miss a Southwest flight, what your rebooking options are, and how to make the best of a tough travel moment.

What Happens If You Miss Your Southwest Flight?

Southwest Airlines is more flexible than many other airlines when it comes to missed flights. They don’t charge traditional change fees, and they offer policies that may allow you to rebook quickly and affordably.

However, your options depend on a few key things:

1. How soon you act after missing your flight

2. What type of fare you purchased

3. Whether you’ve notified Southwest about your situation

If you simply don’t show up and don’t reach out to the airline, your ticket may be forfeited, especially if you booked a Wanna Get Away fare. But if you speak to a Southwest representative soon after your missed flight, there’s a strong chance you can be rebooked.

Can You Get on the Next Flight?

Yes, in many cases, you can get on the next available Southwest flight after missing yours — but there are some conditions:

1. If You Arrive at the Gate Shortly After Departure

Southwest may offer to place you on the next flight at no additional cost if you arrive within a short window (typically within 2 hours of the missed flight). This courtesy is often referred to as the “flat tire rule.”

While not officially written into their policy, many Southwest agents use their discretion to help customers who miss flights due to minor delays or situations beyond their control.

2. If You Call Ahead or Notify Them Immediately

If you realize you won’t make it in time — maybe you’re stuck in traffic or security is backed up — call +1-833-930-2006 as soon as possible. Speaking with a Southwest representative ahead of your scheduled departure can protect the value of your ticket and improve your chances of getting on the next flight.

3. If You’re Rebooking In-Person at the Airport

Head to a Southwest service counter as soon as possible. If there’s room on the next flight to your destination, and you explain your situation calmly and clearly, many agents will try to help you board a later flight the same day — especially if you’ve just missed your original one.

Does It Cost Extra to Rebook?

Southwest does not charge a fee for changing flights — even after a missed one — but you may need to pay a fare difference if the next flight is more expensive than the one you originally booked.

Here’s how it breaks down by fare type:

1. Wanna Get Away: These are the least flexible fares. If you miss your flight and don’t notify Southwest beforehand, your ticket becomes non-refundable and can’t be used. If you contact them in time, you may be allowed to rebook, paying only the fare difference.

2. Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, and Business Select: These fares offer more flexibility. If you miss your flight, you’re more likely to retain credit or be rebooked at no charge.

What If the Next Flight Is Full?

If the next flight is full, the agent may offer you the next available option — which could be later that day or even the next morning. In high-traffic times or peak seasons, flight availability may be limited, so flexibility helps.

You can also ask to be placed on the standby list. If a seat becomes available, you’ll be added in the order you requested standby, and it may get you out sooner than waiting for a guaranteed seat on a later flight.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Rebooked

1. Arrive at the airport quickly after missing your flight — within 2 hours is ideal.

2. Speak to a Southwest agent in person at the ticket counter or gate.

3. Call customer service as soon as you know you’re running late at +1-833-930-2006.

4. Remain polite and patient — agents often have discretion to help those who are respectful and sincere.

5. Travel light if possible, as it’s easier to rebook travelers without checked baggage.

What Happens If You Can’t Be Rebooked the Same Day?

If all flights are full, you may need to fly out the next day or change your travel plans. Southwest does not provide hotel accommodations for missed flights, even if they help rebook you. However, if you were delayed due to a Southwest-caused delay (like a mechanical issue), they may provide vouchers or compensation.

Final Thoughts: A Missed Flight Doesn’t Have to Mean Missed Travel

Missing a flight isn’t fun, but with Southwest Airlines, it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. If you act quickly, explain your situation, and ask about same-day rebooking, there’s a strong chance you’ll be flying again soon — often on the very next available flight.

Need help navigating the process or talking to a real person at Southwest? Get Human Desk is here to make the experience easier. We specialize in connecting travelers to live airline support, helping you get rebooked, retain your travel funds, and avoid long wait times. Call us today, and let Get Human Desk take the stress out of your Southwest Airlines missed flight.