Southwest Flight Updates: Text, Email & Airport Displays

Updated 7 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide explains how to get real-time Southwest Airlines flight updates through text messages, email notifications, and airport display boards. You’ll learn the exact steps to set up each method, what information you need beforehand, and how to troubleshoot common issues. Whether you’re tracking your own flight or picking someone up, these methods keep you informed of delays, gate changes, and cancellations.

What You’ll Need

A valid Southwest Airlines reservation confirmation number (6 characters, letters and numbers)
The passenger’s first and last name as it appears on the reservation
A mobile phone number capable of receiving SMS text messages (for text alerts)
A valid email address (for email alerts)
Access to the Southwest app or website (for setting up alerts and viewing flight status)

Step-by-Step

Open the Southwest app or website. Go to the Southwest Airlines homepage or open the mobile app on your phone. You don’t need to be logged in to set up flight alerts, but logging in can make it easier to manage multiple reservations.
Navigate to the Flight Status page. On the website, look for the “Flight Status” link in the top menu or under the “Travel Info” tab. In the app, tap the “Flight Status” icon on the home screen.
Enter your flight details. You can search by flight number (e.g., 1234) or by route (departure and arrival cities) and date. If you have a reservation, you can also enter your confirmation number and passenger name to see all flights on that itinerary.
Select the specific flight. Once the flight appears, click on it to view the full status page. This page shows departure and arrival times, gate information, baggage claim, and any delays or cancellations.
Set up text message alerts. On the flight status page, look for a button or link that says “Get Flight Status Alerts” or “Notify Me.” Click it. You’ll be prompted to enter a mobile phone number. Choose whether you want alerts for all changes or only major ones (like cancellations). Confirm the number and click “Subscribe” or “Send.” You’ll receive a confirmation text—reply YES to activate.
Set up email alerts. On the same alert setup screen, you can also enter an email address. If you’re already logged in, your email may be pre-filled. Select the types of updates you want (gate changes, delays, cancellations) and click “Subscribe.” A confirmation email will be sent—click the link inside to verify.
Check airport display boards. If you’re at the airport, find the large screens in the terminal. They list all departing and arriving flights. Look for your flight number and city. The display shows the scheduled time, current status (On Time, Delayed, Boarding, Departed), gate number, and baggage claim carousel. These are updated in real time by the airport and airline.
Use the app for live updates. Even if you’ve set up text/email alerts, the Southwest app provides the most current information. Open the app, go to Flight Status, and select your flight. You’ll see a live map, countdown to departure, and any alerts that have been issued.
Manage your alerts. To change or cancel alerts, go back to the Flight Status page for that flight and click “Manage Alerts” or “Unsubscribe.” You can also text STOP to the number that sends alerts to opt out.

Common Mistakes

Entering the wrong confirmation number. Double-check for typos—it’s case-sensitive and often mixes letters and numbers (e.g., ABC123).
Using a landline for text alerts. Text alerts only work on mobile phones with SMS capability. Landlines cannot receive them.
Not verifying email alerts. If you don’t click the confirmation link in the email, you won’t receive updates. Check your spam folder if it doesn’t appear.
Assuming airport displays are always accurate. While generally reliable, displays can lag a few minutes behind the airline’s internal system. Always cross-check with the app or website for the latest.
Setting alerts for the wrong date. Make sure you select the correct date, especially if you’re tracking a flight for a future day. Alerts are tied to a specific date.

Tips

Set up alerts as soon as you book. Don’t wait until the day of travel. This gives you maximum notice for any schedule changes.
Use both text and email. Redundancy is key—if one fails, you have a backup. Text alerts are faster, but email provides a written record.
Check the app’s notification settings. In the Southwest app, go to Settings > Notifications to enable push notifications. These can be even faster than text.
For airport displays, look for the flight’s city and time. Flights are listed by destination city, not airline, so search for your city name to find your flight.
If you’re picking someone up, use the “Arrivals” display. This shows the estimated arrival time and baggage claim carousel. Check it before leaving home to avoid waiting.

Troubleshooting

Not receiving text alerts: First, check that your phone number is correct and that you replied “YES” to the confirmation text. Ensure your phone has signal and that SMS is not blocked by your carrier. Try unsubscribing and resubscribing.
Not receiving email alerts: Check your spam or junk folder. Add Southwest’s email address to your contacts. If still missing, go back to the Flight Status page and re-enter your email, making sure to click the verification link.
Alerts stop suddenly: Some carriers or email providers may block automated messages. Contact your carrier or check your email settings. You can also switch to the app’s push notifications.
Airport display shows “Delayed” but app shows “On Time”: The display may be outdated. Trust the app or ask a Southwest agent at the gate. Displays are updated by the airport, which can sometimes lag.
Can’t find the alert setup option: On the website, it’s usually under “Flight Status” after selecting the flight. In the app, look for a bell icon or “Alerts” button. If you can’t find it, try logging in first or use the “Contact Us” feature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Southwest account to get flight updates?

No, you can set up text and email alerts without an account. However, having an account makes it easier to manage alerts for multiple flights and store your preferences.

Can I get alerts for someone else’s flight?

Yes, as long as you have their confirmation number and the passenger’s name. You can enter those details on the Flight Status page to set up alerts to your own phone or email.

How far in advance can I set up alerts?

Alerts can be set up as soon as the flight is scheduled, which is typically up to 331 days before departure. However, you’ll only receive notifications when the flight status changes, not for routine updates.

Are airport display boards updated in real time?

They are updated frequently, but there can be a delay of a few minutes. For the most accurate information, use the Southwest app or website, which are updated in real time.

What types of updates will I receive?

Typically, you’ll receive notifications for schedule changes, gate changes, delays, cancellations, and when the flight is boarding or has departed. You can often customize which types you want.

Can I get alerts via WhatsApp or other messaging apps?

Southwest currently offers alerts via SMS text and email only. They do not offer WhatsApp or other messaging app alerts. The app’s push notifications are the closest alternative.

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