Does Southwest Have WiFi? Everything You Need To Know

By James Carten Published July 18, 2025

Southwest Airlines is the largest and a popular carrier in the aviation industry, offers Wi-Fi service to keep passengers connected while flying. It is known for customer-friendly service and low fares. The Southwest in-flight Wi-Fi and entertainment options are available on most of the fleet.

Whether you are traveling for work or leisure, staying online during the flight is easier now. From free entertainment to paid internet access, Southwest provides several options to suit different travel needs. To learn exactly how the service works? What is free, how much it costs, and how to connect, refer to the full details in the blog below.

Is Wi-Fi Available on Every Southwest Flight?

Yes, Southwest Airlines offers WiFi on its planes. The service is available on Boeing 737-700, 737-800, and the newer 737 MAX. To provide Wifi, the airline uses two providers: Anuvu & Viasat, depending on aircraft type.

Note: Wi-Fi on Southwest flights is available on all domestic routes and selected international flights, depending on satellite coverage.

Does Southwest offer Free Wifi? What You Can Access

Southwest offers both free entertainment and paid wifi internet access. Passengers don’t need to pay for basic entertainment and messaging. However, if you want to stream movies and shows, the $8 charge may apply.

Free Internet Services on Southwest:

Everyone onboard can enjoy Southwest’s inflight entertainment portal without paying:

• Free movies and TV shows
• Live TV (NBC, FOX, CNBC, etc.)
• Music streaming from select apps
• Flight tracker with real-time data
• Free messaging through iMessage & WhatsApp (text only)

Paid Internet Access

If you're asking, “Does Southwest have Wi-Fi for full internet browsing?” the answer is yes. But it costs $8 per device, per flight. However, by paying this amount, passengers can access:

• General web browsing
• Email access
• Social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.)

Who Gets Free Internet on Southwest Flights?

Southwest Airlines offers complimentary Wi-Fi to elite members and those holding Rapid Rewards Credit Card. Moreover, frequent flyers might be eligible for free internet. So, check the status and request the service accordingly.

What Can You Do With Southwest Wi-Fi?

Passengers flying with Southwest can have free access to movies, live TV, music via iHeartRadio, and messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp. For full internet browsing, like email, and social media, purchase Wi-Fi per flight leg.

Note: Business Select and Preferred passengers get free access. Streaming sites and video calls are restricted.

Does Southwest Have Wifi on International Flights?

Southwest Airlines does offer Wifi on domestic flights, but WiFi is not accessible on international flights during the international trip. While the airline provides free entertainment options. While the airline provides free entertainment options like movies and messaging apps, full access is limited to domestic routes.

How to Connect to Southwest Wifi?

To connect to Southwest Airlines Wi-Fi, get online and access in-flight entertainment or the internet during the flight. The process is easy and does not require other app downloads. Just a few taps, and you are connected.

Steps to Connect to Southwest WiFi:

• Enable Airplane Mode on your device after boarding.
• Turn on WiFi and select the “SouthwestWiFi” network.
• Open a browser and visit www.southwestwifi.com.
• Once the page loads, choose the free option or purchase full internet access.
• Start browsing, messaging, or watching movies from the portal.

Southwest Wi-Fi Not Working? Here is what to Do

While unable to connect to WiFi and wondering what to do, try these steps. Check if airplane mode is off and Wi-Fi is on, restart the device, and clear saved networks related to the Southwest. If issues are still not resolved, disable VPNs, and check that your browser is compatible. You can also try connecting closer to the aircraft's Wi-Fi access points and avoid heavy activities.

What is the Cost to Get the Wi-Fi service on Southwest?

Southwest Airlines charges $8 per device and per flight for full internet access. The airline provides free entertainment and messaging services, including iMessage and WhatsApp. Which passengers can use to send the text and stay entertained throughout the trip.

Recent Upgrades to Southwest Wi-Fi (2025)

Southwest has started upgrading many of its aircraft with Viasat’s faster Wi-Fi systems, which improve Internet speed and coverage range. They’re also adding USB-A and USB-C power ports on their Boeing 737 MAX fleet. That means longer browsing time without battery issue.

Conclusion

In short, Southwest Airlines makes it easy to stay online while you fly. Passengers catch up on messages, enjoy free entertainment, or even browse the internet if required. The southwest Wi-Fi is simple to connect to and does not require downloading anything extra. If you travel regularly or have a membership, you might even get it for free. With recent updates like faster speeds and power outlets, using internet in the sky getting better.