Southwest Airlines is a popular choice among travelers for its affordable fares, excellent customer service, and flexible policies. If you’re a travel agent looking to book flights for your clients, you’ll be pleased to know that Southwest Airlines offers a range of benefits and tools specifically for travel agents. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know about booking Southwest Airlines flights as a travel agent.
How to Book Southwest Airlines Flights as a Travel Agent
Booking Southwest Airlines flights as a travel agent is easy and straightforward. You can use any global distribution system (GDS) or online booking tool (OBT) to make reservations for your clients. Simply search for Southwest Airlines flights using the appropriate code (WN) and select the flights that best meet your clients’ needs.
Keep in mind that Southwest Airlines does not participate in every GDS or OBT. If you’re unsure whether your preferred system supports Southwest Airlines, check with your system provider or contact Southwest Airlines directly.
Accessing Special Fares and Promotions
One of the biggest advantages of booking Southwest Airlines flights as a travel agent is access to special fares and promotions. Southwest Airlines offers exclusive discounts and benefits to travel agents and their clients, such as:
Promotion | Description |
---|---|
SWABIZ | A program designed for small and mid-sized businesses that offers exclusive discounts and perks on Southwest Airlines flights |
Southwest Vacations | A program that combines flights and hotel stays into affordable vacation packages, with exclusive discounts for travel agents and their clients |
Group Travel | A program that offers discounted fares and flexible booking options for groups of 10 or more passengers |
To access these special fares and promotions, you’ll need to sign up for a Southwest Airlines travel agent account. This account will give you access to SWABIZ, Southwest Vacations, and other exclusive tools and benefits. You can sign up for a travel agent account on the Southwest Airlines website.
Understanding Southwest Airlines Policies and Procedures
As a travel agent booking Southwest Airlines flights, it’s important to understand the airline’s policies and procedures. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Baggage Policy: Southwest Airlines allows each passenger to bring one carry-on bag and two checked bags free of charge. Additional bags may incur fees.
Boarding Process: Southwest Airlines does not assign seats. Passengers are assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a boarding position (1-60) based on their check-in time.
Change and Cancellation Policy: Southwest Airlines offers flexible change and cancellation policies, with no change fees or cancellation fees. However, fare differences may apply.
Check-In Process: Passengers can check in for their flights online, through the Southwest Airlines app, or at the airport. Check-in typically opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Tips for Booking Southwest Airlines Flights as a Travel Agent
To make the most of your experience booking Southwest Airlines flights as a travel agent, consider these tips:
Sign up for a travel agent account: As mentioned earlier, signing up for a travel agent account will give you access to exclusive benefits and promotions.
Use the Southwest Airlines website: The Southwest Airlines website offers a wealth of information and tools for travel agents, including access to special fares, promotions, and tools like the Group Travel program.
Stay up-to-date on policies and procedures: Southwest Airlines’ policies and procedures can change frequently. Make sure to stay informed to avoid surprises or complications when booking flights for your clients.
Consider booking Southwest Airlines flights as part of a larger travel package: Southwest Vacations offers affordable vacation packages that combine flights and hotel stays, making it easy to plan and book entire trips for your clients.
FAQs About Booking Southwest Airlines Flights as a Travel Agent
What is SWABIZ?
SWABIZ is a program designed for small and mid-sized businesses that offers exclusive discounts and perks on Southwest Airlines flights. Travel agents can sign up for SWABIZ to access these benefits for their clients.
How do I sign up for a Southwest Airlines travel agent account?
You can sign up for a travel agent account on the Southwest Airlines website. Simply fill out the required information and submit your application. You should receive a response within a few business days.
Does Southwest Airlines participate in every GDS and OBT?
No, Southwest Airlines does not participate in every GDS and OBT. If you’re unsure whether your preferred system supports Southwest Airlines, check with your system provider or contact Southwest Airlines directly.
What is the Group Travel program?
The Group Travel program offers discounted fares and flexible booking options for groups of 10 or more passengers. This is a great option for travel agents booking flights for large groups or events.
Booking Southwest Airlines flights as a travel agent is a great way to provide your clients with affordable, flexible travel options. By signing up for a travel agent account and staying up-to-date on Southwest Airlines’ policies and procedures, you can make the most of this popular airline’s offerings. With special fares, promotions, and tools like the Group Travel program, booking Southwest Airlines flights has never been easier.
Originally posted 2022-04-03 07:32:00.