WN is already having a positive impact on the Hawaii market from a consumer perspective. When I was there in November, HI's inter-island flights were $69-$89 while WN's were $39 as an introductory special. Going back in a few weeks, HI inter-island flights start at $39 or $44. We win!
12:52 those are Southwest pilots for ya right there. They’re known for taxiing fast, braking hard, and smooth landings lol. I recently flew on one of their 737 max’s, and they are great airplanes when they aren’t crashing into the ground.
I just can’t seem to wrap my head around flying a 737 to Hawaii. I will always remember the 70’s flying on DC-10’s, 747’s and various other wide-bodies. But yeah I’m with you Scott in feeling weird about flying over the ocean knowing there is nowhere to land if there’s a problem. The good news is is that air travel is much safer than it was in years past. Thanks for another cool video!❤️✈️
Thanks! And I totally agree. My first ever flight out to Hawaii and back was on a United 747-100, and that set the bar for me (even though I was stuck in a middle seat way back in economy 😅). I don’t think I’ll ever consider 737s and A321s “normal” for runs out to Hawaii and back. A widebody will always be my #1 choice.
Hawaiian flies their A321neo to the CA coast. Lots of narrow body flights from the west coast(and even further inland) to Hawai'i these days. I will always try to fly direct from BOS on Hawaiian's A330....
@@averyclickman9078 not necessarily, the new ones like A350 are also pretty efficient. And airlines will hit a hard stop at airports with an already scarce number of slots, or not enough flight personnel to man narrowbody planes and cockpit if they want to fly more people to make more money.
It's an ETOPS flight that if an engine is out, there's plenty of places to land. You should understand what you are talking about before you spew your illogical nonsense. Like the producer of this video.
I think one of the main pluses for flying SWA is that their prices can undercut UA/DAL/AA, especially if you’re not flying out of one of their hubs. I’m totally cool with their open seating policy, it means everyone gets there and the plane departs quicker. If anything, it incentives people to pay for the priority boarding so they can snag a better seat before other people. Edit: also the free 2 bags is phenomenal.
They’re definitely doing something right - they’ve been such a profitable airline for so long that it seems they’re not even concerned about turning off people who don’t like the open seating policy. Most people don’t mind I guess!
DUDE YOUR TRYING TO COMPARE A LOW BUDGET AIRLINE TO UA/DAL/AA WHAT ARE YOU SMOKING MAN? THE TOP 3 CANT LOWER FARES DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND THAT? THEY ARE BUILT DIFFERENT...LOW BUDGET IS LOW BUDGET....THAT'S LIKE TRYING TO COMPARE CHEVY TO MERCEDES ....A LOT OF YOU TRAVELERS HAVE NO IDEA....YOU COMPLAIN ABOUT THE FARES...SO USE THE LOW BUDGET AND YOU WILL FIND OUT WHY THEY ARE LOW BUDGET TO BEGIN WITH.... ...
I regularly fly Southwest from Fort Lauderdale to visit my sister in Phoenix, usually connecting through Austin. Seating and connections always smooth as can be, always 2-3 gates from each other. I've only had one problem when FLL was closed because of severe thunderstorms and we diverted to Orlando.We still made it in safely. Free check in bags, the best airfares, I only use SW.
MAX 8 deliveries from spring/summer forward will have in seat power. They'll also begin retrofitting current MAX8/-800 acft (and eventually the 7M) with power. Don't know about existing 700s since many of them are well past halfway in their time & cycle counts and a good number of those are leased. It's still boggling to know that most full service/mainline carriers use narrow bodies for service to the islands now. But each airframe used is ETOPS certified so any issue over water is just as likely/unlikely as any other aircraft in service for those routes.
@@sanspotter when I heard about it I thought it was a prank. Soon I can stop carrying 10 pounds of portable chargers with me when I have a 4 flight day. Now if they can stabilize the WiFi product… 5 of 8 of their aircraft I’ve been on this year has had it inop or not active yet since they’re taking new acft at such a brisk pace and putting them into service so quickly while exploring other connectivity products. AND there’s “ideas” of incorporating an option to purchase assigned seat but I can only imagine how that will muddy the boarding process. I’d imagine it would be preboard > assigned > A group etc. If so that’s probably still a couple years out. We’ll see.
Don't worry, he's just fear mongering over something that happens every day multiple times a day every year without incident for views likes and comments
@@connormcclintock6562 I'm not fear mongering over anything that isn't a big deal. (Not even is.) All I stated was that it was weird seeing twin engine aircraft begining to slowly replace the older widebody jets that we still see today. I do know that it has been happening for even before I was born. If I need to be corrected (Like the previous comment letting me know), then ok. I was wrong. However, there was no need to be rude towards me over a simple comment. Either respond to me respectfully or don't say anything at all. It wasn't necessary at all my friend. I do hope however you have an excellent day or evening wherever you are, and God bless.
Your comment regarding what you perceived to be a quick taxing speed, reminds me of a vblog I read/saw yesterdsy by a professional pilot. He remarked that Southwest pilots are known for rapid ground maneuvering, all complying with safety rules and protocols. Quick turnaround seems to be one of a SW management mantra.
I fly pretty much only Southwest as UA and DL are the only other options in my city and are extremely expensive. You can just buy the early bird automatic check in for $25 and still have a good boarding position. I’ve always been in a window seat. YMMV of course, but for the price, I really thing WN can’t be beat at least here at my home in COS.
Love flying southwest from home (Hawaii) to mainland and vice versa. Numerous flights to choose from throughout the day, very affordable pricing, 2 free checked bags, very good in flight entertainment offerings, love the generous drinks and snack box. Flight attendants are friendly and funny. Planes are new and clean. Way better than what Hawaiian offers tbh.
Scott - Absolutely love you content! I work for SWA in ground operations on the East Coast and wanted to offer a, ahem, point of clarification.... the water we serve on board isn't tap... it's Deja Blue canned filtered water. Thanks for flying with us! I'm hoping to take us to Hawaii sometime soon! And, once again, love the SANSpotter content!
...I avoid SWA as much as possible because of what I refer to as the "cattle call" boarding procedure for which you have to get to the airport even earlier to get in the first boarding group. ...and woe if you have 25 - 30 min to make a connection enroute as you can almost be guaranteed of being in the middle seat or the back row..
I live in Hawaii and Southwest has a better seat between islands. Hawaiian Air's seats are plywood covered in cardboard, whereas Southwest does use a bit of cushion. Also, Hawaiian does not fly to all the islands non-stop from the mainland, but Southwest at least does for some of the islands.
It’s been a while since I’ve flown on a Hawaiian 717 - but it might be fun to do another video comparing Southwest and Hawaiian on inter island flights. It’d be brutal having to go back out to Hawaii, but I think I’d survive. 😄
I love SWA and thank goodness for them that HI is that much more accessible. I would easily fly them over the competition unless I was an oversized person. SWA will have to adapt their model with the growth they dream of though. Isnt it weird how having an extra aisle and the nominal added cabin height somehow feels more pleasant?
I haven’t flown Southwest in years and was looking for a recent review to see what’s changed. I appreciate your comments and views of the interior (I couldn’t find any on their website). Also your explanation of the upgraded boarding process helped a lot- I never liked the “cattle call” seating process either. Anyway, I don’t know if I’ll fly to Hawaii on SW but I probably would feel more comfortable doing a shorter flight. Thanks!
Great video! I’ve only flown Hawaiian for my 4 trips to Hawaii. SW prices are very appealing. Your video has everything i was looking for. Especially you comparing it to Hawaiian
I do agree with SWA needing to go to assigned seating. It in my opinion it would expedite the on time process and stop everyone stowing their stuff towards the front of the aircraft and slowing everyone else down. I flew AA first class to HNL in January and their A321 did not have video screens behind even first class seats. In my opinion SWA has a better movie selection than AA. I’ve flown several MAX 800 aircraft and found them to be a quiet aircraft.
Also for the record if youre drinking straight up water served to you from a flight attendant thats not dirty ass water from another airport its 100% bottled water. Completely different from the dubious water used to brew coffee from the airplanes water system.
Correct, on SWA it's canned water. The coffee water comes from the tank similar to an RV which is usually municipal water. That water does go through a big water filter prior to entering the coffee pot.
When i lived in San Diego and flew to Hawaii it was always a Delta L1011 with full service. I guess no more wide bodies to and from SD and Hawaii these days?
Yeah, I’ve flown on a handful of MAXs now but it still seems new to me. I’m guessing it’s going to get old soon with so many airlines flying these things now. I’d definitely fly Southwest more often if I could select a seat ahead of time!
Maybe a comparison video flying to HNL on a 737 with Alaska Airlines! I do agree widebody is the way to go. My first flight to HNL was a DC-10 with Hawaiian.
New camera scott? Looks INCREDIBLE, my goodness. Circle of death is what prevents me from ever using an airline out of there. Once boarded my jet blue mint suite from there, it felt sensationally illegal.
I am so so glad that seat next to you was free. Yes, I would like more of food service along with drinks for that long-haul flight. And I would also go to a lounge before and after that flight to relax and have some champagne and wine and meals as well. I still need a wide body to fly the long haul flights. And I still miss the 747-400s. But for now, the 777s with Business Class or Polaris Class and Premium Economy on many airlines are good. I am so glad that Lufthansa is flying their 747-800 out of Chicago to Germany. And they are still flying the Airbus 340s with 4 engines as well. Well, again, thank you for sharing this 737 flight over to Hawaii.
I am glad I have flown to Hawaii but from the middle of the country, I have to and have the amenity to fly the wide body aircraft on long distance trips. I do miss the 747-400s on the passenger side of the industry. And the 777s are also currently nice to fly. I have flown on the 757 from Los Angeles over to Hawaii with the First Cabin with the legroom that I need. But from Chicago, it is the 777. I have not flown on the 787s yet but to me the 787s will replace the older 767s. So, I will see about flying on the 787s later on this year.
Yeah, I understood about Southwest flying that way. It is about money and everyone that they can get some more money from customers. I, again, still need more space for my legs n thise long haul flights. I have used my points to get the upgrades across the board whether leaving the west coast or the east coast to Europe.
I'm sure Hawaiian Air isn't happy about Southwest long hauling but if that means I can have more options possibly cheaper I'd take it. 😉 Safe travels always
Thanks for making this video because now I know the only benefit for business is to board first but the seats are all the same. Uncomfortable is you’re flying for over 4 hours
Luckily for me, being visually impaired has its perks. Or as I call it BLIND PRIVILEGE. I get to pre-board before everyone else without even paying one penny extra. In fact open seating is why I love Southwest so much. Because I know my favorite seats will always be available.
@@sanspotter I am a member of the NFB (National Federation of the Blind) and they have a massive annual convention every year. On the Southwest flight that I was on after leaving the convention back in 2018, there were about 25 - 30 blind / visually impaired people all on the same flight. It's like this every year after the annual national convention. Over 2,500 blind / visually impaired people all leaving the same airport and getting all the good seats. I feel sorry for the people who had A boarding passes and were hoping for a good seat.
Sitting on the right is best for the view of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, sad it looked like the clouds obscured a bit. Also since you landed runway 4R you're vectored out to a base and final southwest of the airport. More often I've gone to runway 8R, the "reef" runway. BTW I'm retired United pilot and, yes, Southwest pilots are renowned in our profession for being taxi speed demons. You see, unlike other carriers they aren't paid by block to block flight time, but by "leg". Unless it's changed recently (?)
Thanks for this video review. It is helpful seeing this before I fly SW for the first time, soon. Plus, I haven't flown anywhere for 9 years. I have anxiety/claustrophobia, for which I've had exposure therapy treatment, but it's difficult to do for flying. But watching this video is actually therapeutic and offers a level of exposure that is helpful, and I can practice visualizing myself boarding and selecting a seat, etc. I'm definitely paying for business select when I take a 4 hr. nonstop on this same aircraft from the Midwest to the west coast soon. Worth it to reduce anxiety. I was wondering... you appeared to have decent leg room, but it would be helpful to know how tall you are. Thanks again!
Great video! You should fly Hawaiian’s A321 NEO to Maui if you’re ever headed out that way. I think that would be more of an apt comparison to the 737 Max. Most people look at the ticket price and aren’t willing to pay a little more for a way better inflight experience with Hawaiian.
You’re looking at the seating policy the wrong way. With Southwest you actually get to choose what neighbor you want to sit next to when you have an assigned seat you’re just kind of stuck.
We used to see them as a good option, until i flew home to San Diego for Christmas this past year and got stuck. At least I was home with family, but still sometimes that can be torture during the holidays..
Hello Scott. Very nice trip report. My spouse and I have flown Southwest Airlines out of Buffalo/Niagara Int'l Airport to Arizona and Florida numerous times (we are located in Ontario, Canada) and find them very worthwhile for the price paid. I agree that it sounds funny seeing them fly to Hawaii from the US as I would be used to a main carrier like Hawaiian Airlines or United Airlines but for the price paid, it probably is a better deal if you can cope with the flight time. My spouse and I have always brought our own food on our flights which makes it easier and more economical on the trip. Keep up the good work!
southwest always hustles when taxing, that was one of the topics of the loss of separation event in Austin. The fast turn arounds is what makes their model work.
I can’t agree more. Trips to Hawaii are always something special (to me anyway), so I have no problem paying a little more for a better seat on a better airline. I’m still glad I tried this just to see what it’s like though!
To each his/her own, some like it, some don't, I like it because SW flies direct from where I'm from (Lihue, HI) to LAS and back! None of this segmented flights like Hawaiian does where I fly out from my island to Honolulu (LIH - HNL), get off the aircraft, go to another gate, waiting to board again, then off to the destination (HNL - LAS)! Could really care less if if its narrow body or wide body to the mainland because once i get settled in after taking off, I'll enjoy my snacks, watching my steaming content for a little bit, then getting some shut eye for a few hours! No big deal! I Love SW!
Great video Scott! 🤩 wow! A 737 MAX 8 all the way across the pacific to HNL! Wow! That still just blows my mind that a 737 MAX or A320neo family jets can fly that far away over the LARGEST STRETCH OF OCEAN in the WORLD still never ceases to amaze me! 🎉😂 I can’t wait to fly Southwest Airlines someday soon anyways and maybe I’ll take a 737 MAX to Hawaii someday! Cheers 🥂 Caleb’s Aviation Hey I’ve also got a question: Last time you headed to HNL you said that you wanted to try and fly the ANA 🇯🇵 A380 “Flying Honu” from HNL-NRT will that trip ever happen btw?? 🤔
Agree with you, Scott; I do not like the open seating policy; I like knowing where I am going to sit, although I guess they have improved it since the old days when some people would knock elderly people out of the way to get to their seats. Also never liked Southwest on longer flights due to the lack of inflight service, but you received more from Southwest than I did flying American from Miami to Los Angeles, so what's the difference anymore unless they are an airline with seatback entertainment.
They are definitely catching up with the other big US airlines! In flight entertainment is quite good, and someone here in the comment section mentioned that in-seat power will be coming soon. But the open seating thing is definitely going to keep me away - I don’t like that at all.
I totally agree with you about paying extra for Hawaiian Airlines! The first time I went to Hawaii it was with Southwest for only $240 ish round trip, but being young and dumb this was so worth it! A few years pass now and I can’t figure out how I made it through almost 6 hours on that plane after experiencing Hawaiian airlines! Hawaiian was double the fare but the service definitely makes up for it! You get the full experience with Hawaiian :)
As a fellow San Diegan I try to avoid Terminal 1 at all costs, it's just so painful...I really only fly SWA if I want to go to Vegas, for lack of alternatives... I have flown nothing but Alaska Airlines to Hawaii (and to JFK/EWR for that matter), no reason to change that, especially as I have had a 50% success rate with First Class upgrades, thanks to MVP (Gold). I love AS!
I think southwest are very good for these flights, the price is competitive, there is a lot of legroom (in my opinion) the food is more extensive than on other airlines in economy. I prefer the seats on the MAX 8 with SWA than the HA A330-200!
It's been some years now since the low cost airlines in Europe dropped the free seating model. I'm kind of surprised that Southwest persists in it. The likes of Ryanair and EasyJet see seats as an extra revenue source, from just a couple of pounds to reserve seats at the back to fifteen or twenty pounds for seats at the front or at emergency exits. The fact these are extra means that the airlines can keep the headline cheap fares and if you want you can just accept what the airline gives you but pick your own seat, add a checked bag or even a full sized carry-on and maybe speedy boarding and you can see your cheap thirty pound ticket suddenly cost you over a hundred. As for long overwater legs in a 737 Max, I crossed the Atlantic last year in an Air Canada example. It was as acceptable for a transatlantic flight as any other ETOPS rated aircraft.
I flew them to Hawaii August of 2022, I didn’t mind, I’d do it again simply bc my bags are free, my mom on the other hand didn’t like to open seats either.
Thanks! I’ve been spending more time on my blog recently (usually 1 new review a week). The videos are only once a month now due to how long they take to produce.
I'm surprised you never knew of the Southwest Taxi. Speeding to the gates is normal when it comes to Southwest. If they could go off-road to get to the gate faster they would.
Great video! I’ve often wondered about this service. Their planes start to feel uncomfortable at the 3 hour mark. Not a bad option for short hops, but for my long hauls are typically AA
I took the same flight but from Las Vegas to Honolulu a couple of months ago. It would have been OK except that we paid extra for "business select" to board early in the 1st 15 rows but Southwest boarded "exception people" which amounted to about 50 passengers before us! That was screwed! We paid extra and still had to sit 16+ rows back because some kid with a peanut allergy had priority seating? Seriously? What happened in the days when that wasn't a thing? Sorry I paid extra to board first and I totally understand people with handicaps need priority seating but 50 people on one flight - really? I'll never fly Southwest again unless there's no other choice. And by the way - 5+ hours deserves at least a freaking sandwich. Totally ruined Southwest for me.
Most of the time, there are not that many people in pre boarding, and pre-boarders are not allowed to sit in emergency exits, and it doesn’t matter where you sit if you don’t have a tight connection, almost all the seats have the same legroom
They also run between the islands, more of that in the future as well. Within the next 5 to 10 years, you'll also be able to fly all over Canada, Alaska Airlines is in the crosshairs, what a nice acquisition that will be
I haven't flown on Southwest for probably 7 or 8 years, but I'm gonna use them to island hop a couple times when we go to Hawaii in a couple months. I actually feel guilty for not using Hawaiian Airlines!
Nice video as always, as a canadian I flew southwest for the first time inter island in January was impressed but can definitely see how it may not be as fun on a longer flight.
Thanks! Someone else here in the comment section mentioned how nice of an option they are on inter island flights, so I’m probably going to have to check that out. You know…”research”… 😅
WN is already having a positive impact on the Hawaii market from a consumer perspective. When I was there in November, HI's inter-island flights were $69-$89 while WN's were $39 as an introductory special. Going back in a few weeks, HI inter-island flights start at $39 or $44. We win!
12:52 those are Southwest pilots for ya right there. They’re known for taxiing fast, braking hard, and smooth landings lol. I recently flew on one of their 737 max’s, and they are great airplanes when they aren’t crashing into the ground.
Southwest pilots get paid per trip, not hour, therefore taxiing fast is a way of life.
I just can’t seem to wrap
my head around flying a 737 to Hawaii. I will always remember the 70’s flying on DC-10’s, 747’s and various other wide-bodies. But yeah I’m with you Scott in feeling weird about flying over the ocean knowing there is nowhere to land if there’s a problem. The good news is is that air travel is much safer than it was in years past. Thanks for another cool video!❤️✈️
Thanks! And I totally agree. My first ever flight out to Hawaii and back was on a United 747-100, and that set the bar for me (even though I was stuck in a middle seat way back in economy 😅). I don’t think I’ll ever consider 737s and A321s “normal” for runs out to Hawaii and back. A widebody will always be my #1 choice.
Times have changed. Saves airline money and is more efficient then wide body’s
Hawaiian flies their A321neo to the CA coast. Lots of narrow body flights from the west coast(and even further inland) to Hawai'i these days. I will always try to fly direct from BOS on Hawaiian's A330....
@@averyclickman9078 not necessarily, the new ones like A350 are also pretty efficient. And airlines will hit a hard stop at airports with an already scarce number of slots, or not enough flight personnel to man narrowbody planes and cockpit if they want to fly more people to make more money.
It's an ETOPS flight that if an engine is out, there's plenty of places to land. You should understand what you are talking about before you spew your illogical nonsense. Like the producer of this video.
I think one of the main pluses for flying SWA is that their prices can undercut UA/DAL/AA, especially if you’re not flying out of one of their hubs. I’m totally cool with their open seating policy, it means everyone gets there and the plane departs quicker. If anything, it incentives people to pay for the priority boarding so they can snag a better seat before other people.
Edit: also the free 2 bags is phenomenal.
They’re definitely doing something right - they’ve been such a profitable airline for so long that it seems they’re not even concerned about turning off people who don’t like the open seating policy. Most people don’t mind I guess!
I'm glad to watch all your videos again. An amazing report as usual. Greetings from Puerto Rico! 🇵🇷
DUDE YOUR TRYING TO COMPARE A LOW BUDGET AIRLINE TO UA/DAL/AA WHAT ARE YOU SMOKING MAN? THE TOP 3 CANT LOWER FARES DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND THAT? THEY ARE BUILT DIFFERENT...LOW BUDGET IS LOW BUDGET....THAT'S LIKE TRYING TO COMPARE CHEVY TO MERCEDES ....A LOT OF YOU TRAVELERS HAVE NO IDEA....YOU COMPLAIN ABOUT THE FARES...SO USE THE LOW BUDGET AND YOU WILL FIND OUT WHY THEY ARE LOW BUDGET TO BEGIN WITH.... ...
@@Bigfootonthemove I’m not comparing them. I’m pointing out why one might choose SWA over legacies. Chill.
Also, *you’re
I love SWA and this guy needs to grow up.
I regularly fly Southwest from Fort Lauderdale to visit my sister in Phoenix, usually connecting through Austin. Seating and connections always smooth as can be, always 2-3 gates from each other. I've only had one problem when FLL was closed because of severe thunderstorms and we diverted to Orlando.We still made it in safely. Free check in bags, the best airfares, I only use SW.
Having that extra empty seat next to you really helps. Flew BWI-SAV last week on a 100% full plane and I felt claustrophobic even with an aisle seat.
Yeah I totally got lucky with that empty seat! 🙏🏻
MAX 8 deliveries from spring/summer forward will have in seat power. They'll also begin retrofitting current MAX8/-800 acft (and eventually the 7M) with power. Don't know about existing 700s since many of them are well past halfway in their time & cycle counts and a good number of those are leased. It's still boggling to know that most full service/mainline carriers use narrow bodies for service to the islands now. But each airframe used is ETOPS certified so any issue over water is just as likely/unlikely as any other aircraft in service for those routes.
Finally! It’s good to know that in-seat power is coming - and I really can’t believe they managed to hold off for so long.
@@sanspotter when I heard about it I thought it was a prank. Soon I can stop carrying 10 pounds of portable chargers with me when I have a 4 flight day. Now if they can stabilize the WiFi product… 5 of 8 of their aircraft I’ve been on this year has had it inop or not active yet since they’re taking new acft at such a brisk pace and putting them into service so quickly while exploring other connectivity products. AND there’s “ideas” of incorporating an option to purchase assigned seat but I can only imagine how that will muddy the boarding process. I’d imagine it would be preboard > assigned > A group etc. If so that’s probably still a couple years out. We’ll see.
I enjoy the seating policy on southwest. You see a seat you can sit in it. Boarding is a lot faster to me.
Feels really weird flying a 737 over the pond to Hawaii. Man have times changed this much? Nice review! Those Max's Southwest have look really nice!
I completely agree! While I will admit that the Southwest MAX looks nice, it’s just not the same as flying a widebody out to the islands.
It's nothing new. Aloha, UA, and Alaska have done it for years now.
Don't worry, he's just fear mongering over something that happens every day multiple times a day every year without incident for views likes and comments
@@connormcclintock6562 I'm not fear mongering over anything that isn't a big deal. (Not even is.) All I stated was that it was weird seeing twin engine aircraft begining to slowly replace the older widebody jets that we still see today. I do know that it has been happening for even before I was born. If I need to be corrected (Like the previous comment letting me know), then ok. I was wrong. However, there was no need to be rude towards me over a simple comment. Either respond to me respectfully or don't say anything at all. It wasn't necessary at all my friend. I do hope however you have an excellent day or evening wherever you are, and God bless.
@@phillipbanes5484 Figure of speech.
I read they will be upgrading all of their planes with power outlets in the very near future👍🏼✈️
Your comment regarding what you perceived to be a quick taxing speed, reminds me of a vblog I read/saw yesterdsy by a professional pilot. He remarked that Southwest pilots are known for rapid ground maneuvering, all complying with safety rules and protocols. Quick turnaround seems to be one of a SW management mantra.
Yeah I read something about that a long time ago as well. This was by far the fastest taxi into the gate I’ve ever experienced!
Passengers bringing their own food aboard flights just adds to the Greyhound bus experience of Southwest.
I fly pretty much only Southwest as UA and DL are the only other options in my city and are extremely expensive. You can just buy the early bird automatic check in for $25 and still have a good boarding position. I’ve always been in a window seat. YMMV of course, but for the price, I really thing WN can’t be beat at least here at my home in COS.
You paid to board early. What difference did it make if you had an assigned seat or you choose your own?
Love flying southwest from home (Hawaii) to mainland and vice versa. Numerous flights to choose from throughout the day, very affordable pricing, 2 free checked bags, very good in flight entertainment offerings, love the generous drinks and snack box. Flight attendants are friendly and funny. Planes are new and clean. Way better than what Hawaiian offers tbh.
Scott - Absolutely love you content! I work for SWA in ground operations on the East Coast and wanted to offer a, ahem, point of clarification.... the water we serve on board isn't tap... it's Deja Blue canned filtered water. Thanks for flying with us! I'm hoping to take us to Hawaii sometime soon! And, once again, love the SANSpotter content!
Thanks Brendan! It was hard to tell where it came from, but it’s good to know it’s filtered. I’ll definitely mention it in my next Southwest video!
I never want to fly on a MAX
You are a brave man. I would never select them to fly to hawaii
At least now I can say I did it and I’ll never have to do it again. 😆
As a fellow SAN passenger, I'm totally with you on your feelings about WN. My hard and fast rule is to only fly them if it's a
At the very least, I hope the all new T1 will make flying southwest somewhat more enjoyable. 🤞🏻
...I avoid SWA as much as possible because of what I refer to as the "cattle call" boarding procedure for which you have to get to the airport even earlier to get in the first boarding group.
...and woe if you have 25 - 30 min to make a connection enroute as you can almost be guaranteed of being in the middle seat or the back row..
I live in Hawaii and Southwest has a better seat between islands. Hawaiian Air's seats are plywood covered in cardboard, whereas Southwest does use a bit of cushion. Also, Hawaiian does not fly to all the islands non-stop from the mainland, but Southwest at least does for some of the islands.
It’s been a while since I’ve flown on a Hawaiian 717 - but it might be fun to do another video comparing Southwest and Hawaiian on inter island flights. It’d be brutal having to go back out to Hawaii, but I think I’d survive. 😄
Do you know what elevated structure is that's going in front of Terminal 1? I can't tell if it's trolley tracks or an actual roadway (we need both)!
1:28 - 1:33 *"Curiosity also killed the cat, so I'm probably screwed."*
😂😂
Somehow I’m still alive… 😬😬😄
I love SWA and thank goodness for them that HI is that much more accessible. I would easily fly them over the competition unless I was an oversized person. SWA will have to adapt their model with the growth they dream of though. Isnt it weird how having an extra aisle and the nominal added cabin height somehow feels more pleasant?
I haven’t flown Southwest in years and was looking for a recent review to see what’s changed. I appreciate your comments and views of the interior (I couldn’t find any on their website). Also your explanation of the upgraded boarding process helped a lot- I never liked the “cattle call” seating process either. Anyway, I don’t know if I’ll fly to Hawaii on SW but I probably would feel more comfortable doing a shorter flight. Thanks!
Great video! I’ve only flown Hawaiian for my 4 trips to Hawaii. SW prices are very appealing. Your video has everything i was looking for. Especially you comparing it to Hawaiian
I'm quite a fan of Southwest. I wonder if they will ever venture in to the trans Atlantic market?
London wouldn’t surprise me within 20 years. That would be interesting!
WestJet and Air Canada have flown twin-engine, single aisle planes on flights from Canada over the Atlantic to Europe. (737 type mixed aircrafts )
I do agree with SWA needing to go to assigned seating. It in my opinion it would expedite the on time process and stop everyone stowing their stuff towards the front of the aircraft and slowing everyone else down. I flew AA first class to HNL in January and their A321 did not have video screens behind even first class seats. In my opinion SWA has a better movie selection than AA. I’ve flown several MAX 800 aircraft and found them to be a quiet aircraft.
Power outlets are coming! Heard from my dad who’s a SWA pilot
Also for the record if youre drinking straight up water served to you from a flight attendant thats not dirty ass water from another airport its 100% bottled water. Completely different from the dubious water used to brew coffee from the airplanes water system.
Correct, on SWA it's canned water. The coffee water comes from the tank similar to an RV which is usually municipal water. That water does go through a big water filter prior to entering the coffee pot.
When i lived in San Diego and flew to Hawaii it was always a Delta L1011 with full service. I guess no more wide bodies to and from SD and Hawaii these days?
I've taken Alaska from Seattle to Maui with a 737. Not bad at all for me.
My brother works for SW and confirmed that they will be installing usb outlets in every seat! Should be ready to go by 2024. :D
I'm flying LAX to HNL on a Southwest Max 8 pretty soon so it's cool to see what to expect! Love your videos!
My advice: bring food. 😆 Other than that, I think you’re really going to enjoy it. Have fun!
How does the FAA not bust SWA for their taxi speeds?
I remember when you first flew on a MAX. I couldn’t do SW to HNL. As you said, not having a pre assigned seat is stressful
Yeah, I’ve flown on a handful of MAXs now but it still seems new to me. I’m guessing it’s going to get old soon with so many airlines flying these things now. I’d definitely fly Southwest more often if I could select a seat ahead of time!
Maybe a comparison video flying to HNL on a 737 with Alaska Airlines! I do agree widebody is the way to go. My first flight to HNL was a DC-10 with Hawaiian.
Are there any seats with extra space for tall people ???
I Have Nver Been Aboard Southwest Great Work
Southwest is the best low cost carrier ever
I prefer jetblue
Excellent video Scott!
Thanks Ryan!
It was fine - flew from SMF-OGG. Managed to get the middle seat empty, then flight home got the whole row to myself.
That must’ve been nice! Having an empty seat next to me (or the entire row) makes the even worst airline seem awesome. 😄
I thought you were taking off soon at 7:01
New camera scott? Looks INCREDIBLE, my goodness. Circle of death is what prevents me from ever using an airline out of there. Once boarded my jet blue mint suite from there, it felt sensationally illegal.
Have you heard about the Southwest first class lounge?
It’s in the basement and they serve you fried chicken while you sit at picnic tables.😅
Fine, as long as it's good fried chicken.
I am so so glad that seat next to you was free. Yes, I would like more of food service along with drinks for that long-haul flight. And I would also go to a lounge before and after that flight to relax and have some champagne and wine and meals as well. I still need a wide body to fly the long haul flights. And I still miss the 747-400s. But for now, the 777s with Business Class or Polaris Class and Premium Economy on many airlines are good. I am so glad that Lufthansa is flying their 747-800 out of Chicago to Germany. And they are still flying the Airbus 340s with 4 engines as well. Well, again, thank you for sharing this 737 flight over to Hawaii.
I flew the max 9 with united in coach from lax to SFO to connect to my mileage business class ticket on Asiana airlines to ICN.
Hope you enjoyed it! I quite like the MAX 8 and 9 - which is a good thing since they’ll be around for the next 30+ years. 😄
Last time I flew Southwest from my home In Atlanta I had 2 teenage girls sit next to me. As a 16 year old, that felt awkward…maybe luv on Southwest?
Thank you for sharing this flight to paradise.
I am glad I have flown to Hawaii but from the middle of the country, I have to and have the amenity to fly the wide body aircraft on long distance trips. I do miss the 747-400s on the passenger side of the industry. And the 777s are also currently nice to fly. I have flown on the 757 from Los Angeles over to Hawaii with the First Cabin with the legroom that I need. But from Chicago, it is the 777. I have not flown on the 787s yet but to me the 787s will replace the older 767s. So, I will see about flying on the 787s later on this year.
Yeah, I understood about Southwest flying that way. It is about money and everyone that they can get some more money from customers. I, again, still need more space for my legs n thise long haul flights. I have used my points to get the upgrades across the board whether leaving the west coast or the east coast to Europe.
I'm sure Hawaiian Air isn't happy about Southwest long hauling but if that means I can have more options possibly cheaper I'd take it. 😉 Safe travels always
Thanks for making this video because now I know the only benefit for business is to board first but the seats are all the same. Uncomfortable is you’re flying for over 4 hours
Did anyone take the short lived trips to HNL when southwest took over ATA?
Based here in HNL! You can routinely find flights on American for sub $150 each way from LAX. Southwest is fine for island hopping tho!
Luckily for me, being visually impaired has its perks. Or as I call it BLIND PRIVILEGE.
I get to pre-board before everyone else without even paying one penny extra.
In fact open seating is why I love Southwest so much. Because I know my favorite seats will always be available.
That is definitely a nice perk! It’s pretty much the only way to get a good seat on Southwest these days.
@@sanspotter I am a member of the NFB (National Federation of the Blind) and they have a massive annual convention every year.
On the Southwest flight that I was on after leaving the convention back in 2018, there were about 25 - 30 blind / visually impaired people all on the same flight. It's like this every year after the annual national convention. Over 2,500 blind / visually impaired people all leaving the same airport and getting all the good seats. I feel sorry for the people who had A boarding passes and were hoping for a good seat.
I’ve flown Newark to Barcelona on a 757 so this would be like a warmup for me lol
Sitting on the right is best for the view of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, sad it looked like the clouds obscured a bit. Also since you landed runway 4R you're vectored out to a base and final southwest of the airport. More often I've gone to runway 8R, the "reef" runway. BTW I'm retired United pilot and, yes, Southwest pilots are renowned in our profession for being taxi speed demons. You see, unlike other carriers they aren't paid by block to block flight time, but by "leg". Unless it's changed recently (?)
Hey Scott i'm thinking about becoming a Patreon. But when i click your link it doesn't show me the sign up options. Am i doing something wrong?
Just got back from Maui and it seemed like almost entirely Southwest planes flying in and out.
Thanks for this video review. It is helpful seeing this before I fly SW for the first time, soon. Plus, I haven't flown anywhere for 9 years. I have anxiety/claustrophobia, for which I've had exposure therapy treatment, but it's difficult to do for flying. But watching this video is actually therapeutic and offers a level of exposure that is helpful, and I can practice visualizing myself boarding and selecting a seat, etc. I'm definitely paying for business select when I take a 4 hr. nonstop on this same aircraft from the Midwest to the west coast soon. Worth it to reduce anxiety. I was wondering... you appeared to have decent leg room, but it would be helpful to know how tall you are. Thanks again!
You’re very welcome! I’m 5 foot 10, the leg room was decent enough. No issues. Hope you have a great flight!
It’s not that hard to pick a seat. It’s all the same. A-B groups won’t be stuck in middle seat
Maybe I’m just a giant worry wart (and really picky about where I sit), but I hate showing up to the airport without a seat assignment.
Your my favorite you tuber man no joke love your videos always makes my day better
Great video! You should fly Hawaiian’s A321 NEO to Maui if you’re ever headed out that way. I think that would be more of an apt comparison to the 737 Max. Most people look at the ticket price and aren’t willing to pay a little more for a way better inflight experience with Hawaiian.
You’re looking at the seating policy the wrong way. With Southwest you actually get to choose what neighbor you want to sit next to when you have an assigned seat you’re just kind of stuck.
Good point! Which is probably why nobody wanted to sit next to me. 😂
@@sanspotter 🎯😂
Scott, I’d take this flight with you anytime since it’s Southwest!
Why did you have 2 different phones
SAN to HNL with stops in PHX, ORD, LGA, & LAX. 😊
Southwest will be putting power outlets in! 🎉
We used to see them as a good option, until i flew home to San Diego for Christmas this past year and got stuck. At least I was home with family, but still sometimes that can be torture during the holidays..
Hello Scott. Very nice trip report. My spouse and I have flown Southwest Airlines out of Buffalo/Niagara Int'l Airport to Arizona and Florida numerous times (we are located in Ontario, Canada) and find them very worthwhile for the price paid. I agree that it sounds funny seeing them fly to Hawaii from the US as I would be used to a main carrier like Hawaiian Airlines or United Airlines but for the price paid, it probably is a better deal if you can cope with the flight time. My spouse and I have always brought our own food on our flights which makes it easier and more economical on the trip. Keep up the good work!
southwest always hustles when taxing, that was one of the topics of the loss of separation event in Austin. The fast turn arounds is what makes their model work.
It was funny listening to everyone in the cabin comment on how fast we were taxiing. 😂 I should have recorded it!
...ta least they're not like Ryanair which is known for their frequent rough landings.
You're a brave soul. A vacation to Hawaii is cause for celebration. A flight on Southwest is something to dread. I could never mix the two.
I can’t agree more. Trips to Hawaii are always something special (to me anyway), so I have no problem paying a little more for a better seat on a better airline. I’m still glad I tried this just to see what it’s like though!
I always admire when ignorant people comment. You make fools entertaining
@@sanspotter a better airline? LOL!
To each his/her own, some like it, some don't, I like it because SW flies direct from where I'm from (Lihue, HI) to LAS and back! None of this segmented flights like Hawaiian does where I fly out from my island to Honolulu (LIH - HNL), get off the aircraft, go to another gate, waiting to board again, then off to the destination (HNL - LAS)! Could really care less if if its narrow body or wide body to the mainland because once i get settled in after taking off, I'll enjoy my snacks, watching my steaming content for a little bit, then getting some shut eye for a few hours! No big deal! I Love SW!
I’d take southwest in coach over delta , aa or united any day of the week. Southwest is way more comfortable and nicer seats
Great video Scott! 🤩 wow! A 737 MAX 8 all the way across the pacific to HNL! Wow! That still just blows my mind that a 737 MAX or A320neo family jets can fly that far away over the LARGEST STRETCH OF OCEAN in the WORLD still never ceases to amaze me! 🎉😂
I can’t wait to fly Southwest Airlines someday soon anyways and maybe I’ll take a 737 MAX to Hawaii someday!
Cheers 🥂
Caleb’s Aviation
Hey I’ve also got a question: Last time you headed to HNL you said that you wanted to try and fly the ANA 🇯🇵 A380 “Flying Honu” from HNL-NRT will that trip ever happen btw?? 🤔
Ahh yes a new video 😆
I was starting to think that you'd never upload a video again but you did!
I’m spending more time writing on my blog than I am making videos these days. But the videos won’t stop - there’s lots more to come!
I’m interested in how SWA is doing on the Inter island connection. Aloha went under and see if SWA bails out on that in near future.
I love the seating policy… I’m disabled and need pre boarding because of fear /turbulence I need to sit forward in the plane first 3-4 rows
Agreed, SW open seating boarding is horrible
Agree with you, Scott; I do not like the open seating policy; I like knowing where I am going to sit, although I guess they have improved it since the old days when some people would knock elderly people out of the way to get to their seats. Also never liked Southwest on longer flights due to the lack of inflight service, but you received more from Southwest than I did flying American from Miami to Los Angeles, so what's the difference anymore unless they are an airline with seatback entertainment.
They are definitely catching up with the other big US airlines! In flight entertainment is quite good, and someone here in the comment section mentioned that in-seat power will be coming soon. But the open seating thing is definitely going to keep me away - I don’t like that at all.
5:40 is the money shot! 🥵🥵
I totally agree with you about paying extra for Hawaiian Airlines! The first time I went to Hawaii it was with Southwest for only $240 ish round trip, but being young and dumb this was so worth it! A few years pass now and I can’t figure out how I made it through almost 6 hours on that plane after experiencing Hawaiian airlines! Hawaiian was double the fare but the service definitely makes up for it! You get the full experience with Hawaiian :)
Hawaiian rocks and you're not squeezed into a 3X3 seat for 2500 miles!!
As a fellow San Diegan I try to avoid Terminal 1 at all costs, it's just so painful...I really only fly SWA if I want to go to Vegas, for lack of alternatives... I have flown nothing but Alaska Airlines to Hawaii (and to JFK/EWR for that matter), no reason to change that, especially as I have had a 50% success rate with First Class upgrades, thanks to MVP (Gold). I love AS!
Greatest, and I got Surfshark
Thanks for the support! 👍🏻👍🏻
Power outlets/charging coming to new swa planes this year
I think southwest are very good for these flights, the price is competitive, there is a lot of legroom (in my opinion) the food is more extensive than on other airlines in economy. I prefer the seats on the MAX 8 with SWA than the HA A330-200!
I remember hen hawaiian had a monopoly in hawaii, there was a $100-200 per-ticket difference after southwest started flying there
I love how you cut your content! Much to learn from you.
Dig the music Scott! Where do you get your soundtracks? BTW 2 free bags on WN is insane, in Europe you'd pay your fare over again for that!!
Thanks Philip! I get all my music from Epidemic Sound. 👍🏻
It's been some years now since the low cost airlines in Europe dropped the free seating model. I'm kind of surprised that Southwest persists in it. The likes of Ryanair and EasyJet see seats as an extra revenue source, from just a couple of pounds to reserve seats at the back to fifteen or twenty pounds for seats at the front or at emergency exits. The fact these are extra means that the airlines can keep the headline cheap fares and if you want you can just accept what the airline gives you but pick your own seat, add a checked bag or even a full sized carry-on and maybe speedy boarding and you can see your cheap thirty pound ticket suddenly cost you over a hundred. As for long overwater legs in a 737 Max, I crossed the Atlantic last year in an Air Canada example. It was as acceptable for a transatlantic flight as any other ETOPS rated aircraft.
Do a flight from San Diego to Portland next on Alaska
I flew them to Hawaii August of 2022, I didn’t mind, I’d do it again simply bc my bags are free, my mom on the other hand didn’t like to open seats either.
Hey Scott! Nice video! Seems like its slowed down lately, how often are you releasing new content?
Thanks! I’ve been spending more time on my blog recently (usually 1 new review a week). The videos are only once a month now due to how long they take to produce.
Didn't you take a SW max during COVID to Seattle?
Nope - wasn’t me!
@@sanspotter never mind it was United to Houston
I'm surprised you never knew of the Southwest Taxi. Speeding to the gates is normal when it comes to Southwest. If they could go off-road to get to the gate faster they would.
Haha, I have no doubt about that! 😄
Great video! I’ve often wondered about this service. Their planes start to feel uncomfortable at the 3 hour mark. Not a bad option for short hops, but for my long hauls are typically AA
I took the same flight but from Las Vegas to Honolulu a couple of months ago. It would have been OK except that we paid extra for "business select" to board early in the 1st 15 rows but Southwest boarded "exception people" which amounted to about 50 passengers before us! That was screwed! We paid extra and still had to sit 16+ rows back because some kid with a peanut allergy had priority seating? Seriously? What happened in the days when that wasn't a thing? Sorry I paid extra to board first and I totally understand people with handicaps need priority seating but 50 people on one flight - really? I'll never fly Southwest again unless there's no other choice. And by the way - 5+ hours deserves at least a freaking sandwich. Totally ruined Southwest for me.
Most of the time, there are not that many people in pre boarding, and pre-boarders are not allowed to sit in emergency exits, and it doesn’t matter where you sit if you don’t have a tight connection, almost all the seats have the same legroom
I appreciate your comments I'm taking the same flight in a couple weeks and wanted prepare for the experience.
They also run between the islands, more of that in the future as well. Within the next 5 to 10 years, you'll also be able to fly all over Canada, Alaska Airlines is in the crosshairs, what a nice acquisition that will be
"Unmatched opulence of Terminal 1" 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 Fellow San Diegan feels your pain.
Sit back relax and fly Southwest 🔵🟡🔴
The most Southwest route on Southwest
Haha! Facts.
that brownie brittle hits different
Having flown Hawaiian Air, I am intrigued with this video... lol. I love Hawaiian Air.
I haven't flown on Southwest for probably 7 or 8 years, but I'm gonna use them to island hop a couple times when we go to Hawaii in a couple months. I actually feel guilty for not using Hawaiian Airlines!
Nice video as always, as a canadian I flew southwest for the first time inter island in January was impressed but can definitely see how it may not be as fun on a longer flight.
Thanks! Someone else here in the comment section mentioned how nice of an option they are on inter island flights, so I’m probably going to have to check that out. You know…”research”… 😅
@@sanspotter "Research" Mokulele, too...
@@sanspotter yeah for sure, certainly a nicer product but hard to beat the roar of the 717 🥵