How does Southwest check in and boarding work?

[Kycha]

Since SWA has the cheapest flights that I can find for our September trip from BWI, we will be flying them for the first time. So, how does the boarding work?

I know we can check in online 24 hours in advance. How do I get the coveted "A" boarding pass? Where do I get the boarding passes? Then what? Do they have separate lines for each boarding pass? Do I need to line up as soon as I get to the gate or should I wait until boarding begins?

Any help from the SWA veterans out there would be greatly appreciated. TIA!!

 

[aquaticmom]

You are permitted to check in online exactly 24 hrs before your flight. Everytime that I have checked in 24 hours in advance, I have received an "A" boarding pass. You will be able to print your boarding passes as soon as you check in. When you get to the airport you can curb check your luggage (if it's available at your airport) anyhow then you can go through security and proceed directly to your gate. They have four separate boarding lines, Pre-boarders go first, then A, B, C. We always just go directly to whatever line matches our boarding pass, and sit down on the floor, I had the laptop the last time and we put in a movie for the kids to watch. That way we are assured pretty good seats, My kids love window seats and they have always got a window seat if we wait at the front of the line. I love flying South West.