Buckle Up! Southwest Soars into Google Flights

Southwest Airlines, long a holdout in the online travel agency (OTA) world, has finally touched down on Google Flights. This game-changer allows travelers to compare Southwest fares directly with other airlines, saving time and simplifying the booking process.

Previously Bumpy Skies:

For years, finding Southwest flights required visiting their website directly. This meant extra steps for travelers who wanted to compare prices across all airlines. This was a strategic move by Southwest to control distribution costs and build customer loyalty on their platform.

A Smooth Takeoff:

As of May 22nd, 2024, Southwest fares are now integrated into Google Flights searches. This means you can see prices for all their routes alongside other carriers. You can even compare the different fare classes Southwest offers, like Wanna Get Away™ and Anytime Tickets.

Benefits for Travelers:

This new partnership brings several advantages for travelers:

• Simplified Comparison: No more hopping between websites! See Southwest options alongside all your other choices for a clear picture of pricing.

• Informed Decisions: Compare fares, baggage fees, and other airline offerings to make the best choice for your trip.

• Streamlined Booking: Click directly from Google Flights to the Southwest website to complete your booking without starting over.

What to Keep in Mind:

While this is a significant change, it's still early days. Here are some things to remember:

• Limited Scope: For now, this is a Google Flights partnership only. Southwest fares won't show up on other OTAs just yet.

• Booking on Southwest.com: The final booking will still take place on Southwest's website, so be familiar with their policies and fees.

Overall, Southwest's arrival on Google Flights is a win for travelers. It brings more transparency and convenience to the flight search process. So next time you're planning a trip, be sure to factor in Southwest when you shop on Google Flights!