Are you planning a trip and wondering about the Southwest Airline code? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the Southwest Airlines code, its significance, and how to use it. Whether you are a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, understanding airline codes can be beneficial.
Traveling by air has become an integral part of our lives, and airlines use unique codes to identify themselves. These codes are commonly known as airline codes or IATA codes. Southwest Airlines, one of the leading low-cost carriers in the United States, also has its distinct airline code. So, let’s dive in and find out the Southwest Airlines code!
What is an Airline Code?
Airline codes are three-letter abbreviations assigned to airlines globally by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). These codes are used for various purposes, including ticketing, flight tracking, baggage handling, and airline communication. Each airline is identified by a unique code, allowing for efficient and standardized operations within the aviation industry.
What is Southwest Airline Code?
The IATA airline code for Southwest Airlines is WN. This code is used by travel agents and booking websites to identify Southwest Airlines flights. The IATA code is a two-letter code that is assigned to airlines by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Southwest Airlines also has an ICAO code, which is SWA. The ICAO code is a four-letter code that is used by air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals to identify aircraft.
Southwest Airlines does not have a two-letter airline code for booking flights. Instead, they use a Passenger Name Record (PNR) code. The PNR code is a unique identifier for your flight reservation. It is typically 10 characters long and includes a combination of letters and numbers.
You can find your PNR code on your Southwest Airlines confirmation email or boarding pass. You can also use the Southwest Airlines website or app to look up your PNR code.
Airline Name | Southwest Airlines | Prefix | 526 |
---|---|---|---|
IATA Code | WN | ICAO Code | SWA |
Hub City | Dallas-Fort Worth | Hub Airport | Dallas Fort Worth International Airport |
Why is Southwest Airlines’ IATA Code “WN”?
The IATA code for Southwest Airlines is “WN” because the code “SW” was already taken by Air Namibia. Air Namibia was founded in 1946, and Southwest Airlines was founded in 1967. When Southwest Airlines was founded, they had to choose a different code. They chose “WN” because it is the first two letters of their name, “southWest.”
There are a few other theories about why Southwest Airlines’ IATA code is “WN.” Some people believe that it stands for “We’re Nuts,” which is a reference to Southwest Airlines’ quirky and fun-loving culture. Others believe that it stands for “We’re Next,” which is a reference to Southwest Airlines’ ambition to be the next big airline.

Ultimately, the meaning of the IATA code “WN” is up to interpretation. However, it is clear that Southwest Airlines chose this code because it was available and it fit with their brand identity.
What is the Importance of Southwest Airlines Code?
The Southwest airline code plays a crucial role in simplifying airline operations and enhancing the overall travel experience. With the Southwest Airlines code, passengers can easily identify flights operated by Southwest Airlines when browsing through flight options.
It helps in reducing confusion and ensures that passengers book the correct flights according to their preferences and requirements.
How Can I Find Southwest Airlines Airline Code?
Finding the Southwest Airlines code is a straightforward process. You can find it in several ways:
- Official Website: Visit the official website of Southwest Airlines. The Southwest airline code is prominently displayed on the homepage or under the “About” section.
- Online Travel Agencies: When searching for flights on online travel agencies, such as Expedia or Kayak, the Southwest Airlines code will be listed alongside the flight details.
- Flight Tickets: If you have already booked a flight with Southwest Airlines, the airline code will be mentioned on your e-ticket or booking confirmation.
What Are Major Southwest Airports?
Southwest Airlines has a large network of airports that it serves. Some of the major Southwest airports include:
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
In conclusion, knowing the Southwest Airlines code is essential for hassle-free travel planning and booking. The airline code “WN” uniquely identifies flights operated by Southwest Airlines and allows passengers to easily locate and book their desired flights. Remember to refer to the Southwest Airlines code when searching for flights and enjoy the convenience and excellent service offered by Southwest Airlines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The code for Southwest Airlines is WN. This code is used by travel agents and booking websites to identify Southwest Airlines flights. The IATA code is a two-letter code that is assigned to airlines by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The airline that is assigned the code WN is Southwest Airlines. Southwest Airlines is a major American airline that is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Southwest Airlines is known for its low fares and its free checked bags.
The abbreviation for Southwest Airlines is SWA. This code is used by air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals to identify Southwest Airlines aircraft. The ICAO code is a four-letter code that is assigned to airlines by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
No, the Southwest Airlines code “WN” is exclusive to Southwest Airlines. It cannot be used to book flights operated by other airlines.
No, Southwest Airline codes are not case-sensitive. You can enter them in uppercase or lowercase letters without any impact on the search results.
Yes, the Southwest Airlines code “WN” remains the same for both international and domestic flights operated by Southwest Airlines.