southwest airlines laguardia airport
Southwest Airlines flies into LaGuardia Airport (LGA) across the road from JFK, offering convenient, affordable, and stress‑free travel. Whether you’re dropping off a pet, catching a connecting flight, or planning a weekend getaway, this guide will help you navigate the airport, make the most of Southwest’s friendly policies, and arrive at your destination with confidence.
What Airlines Operate at LaGuardia?
LaGuardia is a hub for several major carriers, but Southwest’s presence is unique:
- Southwest Airlines – exclusively serves LGA with nonstop service to select destinations.
- Delaware, JetBlue, and American Airlines – other carriers with brief and limited routes.
Southwest’s entire fleet is uniform, and its operational style (open seating, free checked bags, no change fees) makes LGA a smooth experience for returning travelers.
Finding Your Southwest Flight at LaGuardia
1. Gates & Departures
Southwest usually operates from Terminals 2 and 3 at LGA.
- Gate check: Review the gate board whenever you arrive; Southwest boards in a “first‑come, first‑served” order, starting from Gate 250.
2. Check‑In Options
- Online: Check in up to 24 hours before departure via Southwest’s mobile app or website.
- Self‑Service Kiosks: Located in Lobby 2; complete check‑in and print boarding passes.
- Customer Service Desk: Located in Terminal 2, for last‑minute changes or assistance.
Pro tip: Arrive 1–1.5 hours early for domestic flights; 2 hours for international, to allow time for boarding rush and security checks.
Check‑In & Boarding Tips
| Step | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check In Early | Use mobile or kiosk | Avoid long lines; secure your gate. |
| 2. Carry-on Docs | ID, boarding pass, travel insurance | Quick security screening. |
| 3. Arrive Early | 1–1.5 hrs | Allows buffer for security wait times. |
| 4. Board by Row | Southwest boards in order of row | Helps you seat yourself without moving others. |
| 5. Keep Cash on Hand | Small amounts for the airport vendors | LGA does not accept cards at all kiosks. |
Baggage Policy & Fees
- Free checked bags: 1–2 for domestic; 1 for international.
- Carry‑on: 1 small bag + 1 personal item.
- No change fees: All fare changes, cancellations, and rescheduling are fee‑free.
- Baggage drop: Automated, but limited for low‑profile items (e.g., purchased souvenirs).
Pro tip: For items over 50 lb, check an extra bag for just $30 on the day of travel.
Lounge & Comfort at LGA
While Southwest does not operate a dedicated lounge at LGA, you still have options:
- The Bag & Lounge (Terminal 2) – collaboration with JetBlue and Alaska; free for Southwest passengers when you show a valid boarding pass.
- Airport lounges: Various paid lounges offer Wi‑Fi, snacks, and seating.
Select a lounge to wait in comfort before boarding.
Parking & Ground Transportation
| Option | Cost | Approx. Drive Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LGA Parking (Long‑Term) | $18/day | 5‑10 min to terminal | Secure, reserved spaces. |
| Shuttle Services | $15–$25 | 5‑15 min | Includes hotel pickups or drop-offs. |
| Ride‑Share (Uber/Lyft) | $25–$45 | 5‑10 min | LGA parking gates allow direct ride‑share pick‑ups. |
| Public Transit (Q70, Q60, Q59) | $7.75 | 30‑45 min | Requires transfer to bus terminal. |
Pro tip: Pre‑buy a parking ticket online to save $5–$10.
FAQ
Q1: Does Southwest charge for checked bags at LaGuardia?
A1: No, Southwest offers one free checked bag for domestic flights and one for international.
Q2: Can I change my Southwest flight for free?
A2: Yes – Southwest’s “no‑fee changes” policy allows any modifications without charges.
Q3: Where do I find the Southwest gate at LaGuardia?
A3: Check the airport display board or Southwest’s app. Gates are in Terminals 2 & 3, often labeled “Southwest Flight” with a red door.
Q4: Are there any security fee delays on LGA?
A4: LaGuardia’s TSA PreCheck is available; for non‑members, standard 45‑minute security prep time is advisable.
Q5: Is there a dedicated Southwest lounge at LGA?
A5: No dedicated lounge; however, you can access Bag & Lounge with your boarding pass.
Resources
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines official website | https://www.southwest.com |
| LaGuardia Airport passenger services | https://www.lgaair.org |
| TSA PreCheck & Global Entry | https://www.tsa.gov/precheck |
| NYC DOT Transportation page | https://www.nyc.gov/dot |
| Airport Cycling and Walking Guide | https://www.transitomat.org/la-guardia |
Happy travels! Whether you’re a first‑time LGA visitor or a seasoned Southwest flyer, keep this guide handy to turn your trip into a win‑win experience.
