ATA/Southwest Code Share & Seats

[inkkognito]

I am happy with the ATA/Southwest alliance, as it looks like ATA will remain at Midway (at least to some extent). But I read that they are going to code share some flights; how will that be done, since ATA assigns seats and Southwest doesn't? We have Elite status, so I'm hoping that means we will be able to pre-board if we book via ATA, even though it's a Southwest flight. But it seems like there is a lot of potential for confusion.
Barb

 

[Beca]

Hmm...as a SWA rapid rewards member (and former flight attendant), I can pretty much assure you that you will not be able to pre-board at SWA...unless things change in the future. SWA is now looking at doing a "test" on assigned seats, but that is one year away, and will be in limited markets. If SWA goes to assigned seats...you may see this as an option, but right now, even SWA's frequent flyer (those receiving UNLIMITED companion passes) cannot preboard...only those who have physical needs.



Beca

 

[jel0511]

Usually when you fly a codeshare flight, you actually check-in with the other airline. You will be unable to check-in with ATA on either the Web or in person. You will have to "figure" out your Southwest confirmation (they are usually different than the codeshare airline) and use that to check-in on Southwest's website. Trust me, living in the NY/PHL airport area, there are TONS of codeshare flight here, and regardless of who you book through, you check-in with whoever is operating the flight. You will be held to Southwest's boarding and seating policies, not ATA's.

 

[inkkognito]

Hmmmm, should be interesting!
I don't like the cattle call, but I'll do it if need be. I'm just glad that Southwest has enabled ATA to maintain a presence at Midway.
Barb

 

[SB in KY]

I wouldn't worry about losing out on preboarding on SWA...if it is a flight to Orlando approximately 75% of the passengers feel they qualify for preboarding,,,surely you can find another good excuse for getting in the preboarding line....you have a kid under 21, you have a spouse over 45, you qualify as handicapped because you have an ingrown toenail or an overbite.....any excuse will do...just run up there to the preboarding line with the rest of the herd!!

 

[PolyHereWeCome]

Good one, SB in KY! We're going during Spring Break and am hoping they bag the whole pre-boarding thing.