I just took my first plane trip in about 14 years this weekend on Southwest. We went from Ontario to Las Vegas. I was so worried about the whole process of buying tickets, figuring out airports, and such, but turned out to be a great experience. Our SW flight went very well and yes we got the "A" passes online. The people were starting to line up for each section at least an hour ahead of time. We were in the front row. Personally I wouldn't have cared where we sat, but seeing how large some carryons were and the overhead filled up and lots had to have their carryons changed to checked luggage, I would definately get "A" passes again if possible. The only other problem on our flight were about 4 drunk guys that were sitting mid section that were giving the stewardess a hard time and then one of them vomitted! I was sooo glad to be sitting in the front row away from it all.