Southwest Airlines at Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) provides travelers with convenient access to domestic flights, check-in services, baggage facilities, airport transportation, parking, restaurants, and passenger amenities. Dallas Love Field is an important operating base for Southwest, and most passengers using this airline at DAL will depart from the airport’s Main Terminal.
This guide covers the Southwest Airlines DAL terminal, check-in and bag drop, gate information, baggage policies, TSA security, parking, ground transportation, food options, boarding procedures, flight status, and frequently asked questions.
Southwest Airlines DAL Terminal
Which terminal does Southwest use at Dallas Love Field?
Southwest Airlines operates from the Main Terminal at Dallas Love Field Airport. DAL has one main passenger terminal rather than separate domestic and international terminals like some larger airports.
- Airport name: Dallas Love Field Airport
- Airport code: DAL
- Airline: Southwest Airlines
- Terminal: Main Terminal
- Listed Southwest gates: A1–A10, A12, A14–A20
- Southwest customer service: 1-800-435-9792
- Airport address: 8008 Herb Kelleher Way, Dallas, TX 75235
- Airport information: 214-670-LOVE (5683)
Travelers searching for the Southwest Airlines Dallas Love Field terminal, Southwest terminal Dallas Love Field, Southwest Airlines Love Field, or Southwest Airlines DAL Airport should head to the Main Terminal and follow the airline signs to ticketing, security, and their assigned gate.
Gate assignments can change, so confirm your departure gate using the airport displays or the Southwest app before boarding.
Southwest Check-In at DAL and Bag Drop
Passengers can check in for Southwest flights at Dallas Love Field online, through the mobile app, at a self-service kiosk when available, or at the airline’s ticket counter.
Southwest check-in options
Online and mobile check-in: Southwest online check-in generally opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Passengers can check in through the official Southwest website or app and access their Southwest boarding pass for DAL.
Southwest ticket counter DAL: The airline’s ticket counter is listed as opening daily 120 minutes before the first departing flight. Opening times can vary with operations, so check your specific flight before arriving.
Southwest self-service kiosk DAL: Use an available airport kiosk to print travel documents or baggage tags, if your booking and the kiosk support the service.
Southwest bag drop DAL: If you have checked baggage, follow the signs to the Southwest bag drop or ticket-counter area. Allow extra time during busy travel periods.
Southwest curbside check-in DAL: Dallas Love Field provides curbside check-in on the upper roadway in front of Ticketing/Check-In on Herb Kelleher Way. Southwest lists curbside check-in as available at DAL. A service fee may apply to each checked bag; confirm the current charge at the airport.
What time does Southwest check-in open at DAL?
Southwest’s DAL ticket counter generally opens 120 minutes before the first departing flight. Online check-in opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
How early should you arrive for Southwest at DAL?
Dallas Love Field recommends arriving at least 90 minutes before departure, while its airline information advises travelers to allow a minimum of two hours. For a more comfortable margin, aim to arrive about two hours before your flight, especially if you are checking bags, traveling with children, or flying during a busy period.
Southwest check-in cutoff time DAL
Southwest’s standard domestic checked-bag deadline is generally 60 minutes before scheduled departure. Other check-in, boarding, and international-itinerary rules may differ. Arriving close to departure time can risk missing the flight, even if you have checked in online.
Official resources: Southwest Check-In | Dallas Love Field Airline Information
Southwest DAL Gates, Terminal Map and Layout
Dallas Love Field uses a single passenger terminal with a concourse and numbered gates. Southwest passengers should check the airport’s current terminal map and departure screens rather than relying only on an older gate listing.
Southwest gates at Dallas Love Field
Southwest’s airport information lists gates A1–A10, A12, and A14–A20 at DAL. Gate availability and assignments can change based on airline operations, so the listed range should not be treated as a guarantee that every gate is operating for every flight.
Travelers looking for a DAL airport gate map Southwest, Southwest gate numbers DAL, Southwest gates at Dallas Love Field, or DAL airport layout Southwest can use the official Dallas Love Field terminal map.
Is Dallas Love Field one terminal?
Yes. Dallas Love Field has one main passenger terminal. Passengers generally do not need to transfer between separate airline terminals to reach a Southwest flight.
How many gates does Southwest have at DAL?
The airport information lists 18 gate numbers for Southwest: A1 through A10, A12, and A14 through A20. This is the number of listed gate positions, not a guarantee of the number of gates in use at any particular time.
How long does it take to walk between DAL gates?
Walking time depends on the gate, security queue, crowd levels, and whether you need to stop at a restaurant or restroom. DAL’s compact terminal makes navigation relatively straightforward, but travelers should allow extra time when changing gates or traveling with mobility needs.
Southwest gate changes at DAL
Check the gate shown on your boarding pass, the Southwest app, and the airport’s flight information displays. If the gate changes, follow the latest airport announcement and signs.
Southwest Baggage Fees at DAL
Southwest baggage rules depend on the fare purchased, the date the ticket was booked or changed, loyalty status, eligible credit-card benefits, and the baggage’s size and weight.
Southwest checked bag price 2026
For U.S. mainland travel booked and ticketed and/or changed on or after April 9, 2026, Southwest lists the following standard one-way checked-bag fees for Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares:
| Checked baggage | Standard fee |
|---|---|
| First checked bag | $45 |
| Second checked bag | $55 |
| Carry-on bag and personal item | Free, subject to size rules |
| Choice Extra fare | Two checked bags included |
Eligible Rapid Rewards members and eligible credit-card holders may receive baggage benefits. Check the official Southwest baggage and travel fees page before departure because exceptions and eligibility conditions apply.
Do Southwest bags fly free at DAL?
Not for every passenger or fare in 2026. Southwest’s current standard fees apply to many Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred tickets. Choice Extra customers and certain eligible loyalty members or credit-card holders may receive free checked-bag benefits.
Southwest carry-on size DAL
Southwest’s standard carry-on limit is generally 24 × 16 × 10 inches, including handles and wheels. One carry-on and one personal item are generally permitted, subject to the airline’s current policy and available cabin space. Confirm the latest dimensions before packing.
Southwest oversized baggage DAL
Oversized, overweight, or special items may require additional fees or handling. Check the airline’s current rules before traveling with large suitcases, musical instruments, sports equipment, or other unusual baggage.
Southwest baggage claim Dallas Love Field
After arriving at DAL, follow the signs to the baggage claim area in the Main Terminal. Your flight’s assigned carousel or belt should be confirmed using airport displays or airline announcements. Carousel assignments can vary by flight.
Lost, delayed, or missing Southwest baggage at DAL
If your checked bag does not arrive, report it promptly to Southwest baggage staff or the airline’s baggage service office and keep your baggage claim receipt and flight details. For items left elsewhere in the airport, contact the airport’s Lost and Found separately.
For Southwest lost baggage DAL, Southwest delayed baggage Dallas Love Field, or Southwest baggage office DAL assistance, start with Southwest Customer Service or call 1-800-435-9792.
Southwest sports equipment DAL
Sports equipment may have special packaging, size, weight, and fee requirements. Review Southwest’s current rules for your particular equipment before taking it to the airport.
TSA Security and Wait Times at Dallas Love Field
All Southwest passengers departing from DAL must pass through the airport’s security checkpoint unless an authorized exception applies.
TSA wait times Dallas Love Field
Security wait times vary according to the time of day, season, staffing, passenger volume, and checkpoint conditions. Check the Dallas Love Field official website for available security wait-time information. A displayed estimate is not a guarantee of how long your own screening will take.
TSA PreCheck DAL Southwest
Eligible passengers may use the TSA PreCheck lane when it is open and their boarding pass shows the required indicator. Follow airport signs and check current checkpoint arrangements before joining a queue.
CLEAR Dallas Love Field
Dallas Love Field lists CLEAR enrollment and renewal services near the west side of the security checkpoint entrance. Availability of expedited screening services and lane access may vary. Check the airport’s current instructions and your eligibility before traveling.
Dallas Love Field security hours and tips
Checkpoint hours can vary with airport operations and flight schedules. To make screening easier:
- Keep your identification and boarding pass accessible.
- Follow TSA rules for liquids and prohibited items.
- Pack electronics and personal items according to current screening requirements.
- Allow extra time if traveling with children, medical equipment, or special assistance needs.
- Follow instructions from TSA officers and airport staff.
For questions such as “What can I bring through security DAL?”, consult the TSA official website.
Dallas Love Field Parking for Southwest Passengers
DAL offers parking garages close to the terminal, along with valet parking. Choose a parking option based on your trip length, budget, and walking preferences.
DAL airport parking rates
The airport’s published daily rates include:
| Parking option | Published daily rate |
|---|---|
| Garage A | $24 |
| Garage B — covered | $21 |
| Garage B — roof, uncovered | $18 |
| Garage C — covered | $21 |
| Garage C — roof, uncovered | $20 |
| Garage C — premium level | $30 |
| Contactless valet | $35 |
Rates may change; check the official DAL Garages & Valet page before leaving home. The airport also provides limited free initial parking periods in specified garage areas, subject to the current terms.
Which parking is best for Southwest at DAL?
- Short-term parking: Convenient for quick visits, pickups, and drop-offs that turn into a brief parking stay.
- Long-term parking: Compare the total daily cost for a multi-day trip before choosing a garage.
- Garage parking: Garages A, B, and C are adjacent to the terminal, with walking access varying by garage and level.
- Valet parking: A convenient option connected to the ticketing hall.
DAL airport pickup and drop-off
Passenger drop-off and curbside check-in are on the upper roadway in front of Ticketing/Check-In. Drivers picking up arriving passengers should follow the current airport pickup signs and use designated areas rather than waiting at the curb.
Dallas Love Field cell phone lot
The airport provides a cell phone waiting lot for drivers waiting to collect arriving passengers. Check the official airport directions for the current location and use rules.
Transportation to and from DAL
Uber and Lyft at Dallas Love Field
App-based rideshare pickups are directed to designated locations around the valet pavilion and Garage C area. Follow the airport’s current rideshare signs and the pickup point shown in your app.
DAL airport taxi
Taxis are available through designated ground transportation pickup areas. Follow airport signage and confirm your pickup location before leaving the terminal.
DART to Dallas Love Field
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) connects the airport terminal with the Inwood/Love Field station through the Love Link shuttle. From there, passengers can connect to DART rail services. Check current service times and fares on the DART website.
Rental cars and shuttles
Rental-car companies operate from the airport’s rental-car facility, with shuttle service to and from the terminal. Follow ground transportation signs for rental-car shuttles and confirm your rental provider’s pickup instructions.
How to get to Dallas Love Field from downtown
Travelers can reach DAL by taxi, rideshare, rental car, private vehicle, or public transit connections. The best option depends on traffic, departure time, luggage, and your starting point in downtown Dallas. Allow additional time during peak traffic periods.
Restaurants, Shops and Amenities Near Southwest Gates
Passengers departing on Southwest can find dining, retail, and passenger services throughout Dallas Love Field’s terminal. Exact locations and opening times can change.
Restaurants and food near Southwest gates
Options include full-service restaurants, quick-service food outlets, coffee shops, bars, and grab-and-go counters. The airport identifies Love Landing as a pre-security public dining area, with a 24-hour option available there. Travelers who need food after security should check the current concessions directory and allow time to reach their gate.
DAL airport shops and coffee shops
Retail outlets and coffee shops serve passengers before and after security. Availability depends on the current airport concession lineup.
Wi-Fi, charging stations and water refill
Dallas Love Field provides free Wi-Fi. Connect to “DAL Free WiFi” and follow the on-screen instructions. Charging facilities and water-bottle refill stations are also available around the terminal; use airport maps and signs to locate the nearest one.
Other passenger amenities
Airport amenities include ATMs, information booths, family facilities, a nursing/mothers’ room, animal relief areas, water refill stations, and accessibility services. Locations and access arrangements may change, so consult the official DAL amenities guide.
Is There a Southwest Lounge at DAL?
Southwest does not operate a dedicated Southwest-branded airport lounge at Dallas Love Field. DAL passengers should not assume that a Southwest ticket includes access to an airline lounge.
If you are searching for a DAL airport lounge, Southwest lounge DAL, Priority Pass Dallas Love Field, or a DAL airport lounge day pass, verify the airport’s current facilities and your membership’s participating locations before planning a visit. Lounge networks and airport amenities can change, and access is not guaranteed simply because you hold a Priority Pass membership.
Southwest Flights from DAL: Routes and Flight Status
Southwest offers flights from Dallas Love Field to destinations across its domestic network. Schedules and nonstop routes can change by date and season, so travelers should check their exact travel dates on Southwest’s official website.
Popular Southwest routes to check from DAL
Passengers often search for Southwest DAL to Houston, Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago Midway, Atlanta, Phoenix, Los Angeles, New York, and Orlando. Route availability, nonstop service, frequency, and destination airports vary by schedule.
For example, Houston service may use Houston Hobby (HOU), Chicago service may use Chicago Midway (MDW), and New York-area flights may use a particular airport depending on the current schedule. Always verify the airport code when booking.
Cheap Southwest flights from DAL
To find lower fares, compare multiple departure dates, review different fare bundles, and book through the official airline website. Prices vary with demand, availability, and ticket rules.
Does Southwest fly internationally from Dallas Love Field?
Do not assume that every Southwest international destination is available nonstop from DAL. Check the route search for your dates and confirm whether a journey starts at DAL, connects through another airport, or requires another carrier. Current route availability is schedule-dependent.
Southwest flight status DAL
For Southwest departures DAL and Southwest arrivals DAL, use the airline’s flight status page or the airport’s official flight information screens. Check for gate changes, delays, cancellations, and baggage updates before traveling to the airport.
Southwest Boarding Groups, Assigned Seating and Seat Options
Southwest introduced assigned seating for flights departing on or after January 27, 2026. Passengers generally select a seat during booking, while Basic fare customers typically receive a seat assignment at check-in, subject to applicable exceptions.
Southwest boarding process 2026
Southwest now uses boarding Groups 1 through 8 rather than the former A/B/C open-seating system. Your boarding group appears on your boarding pass and depends on factors such as fare bundle, seat type, and eligible loyalty or credit-card benefits.
Southwest assigned seating DAL
Passengers may encounter Standard, Preferred, and Extra Legroom seats, depending on aircraft configuration and fare eligibility. Seat selection options and prices are displayed during booking or when managing the reservation.
EarlyBird Check-In, priority boarding and upgraded boarding
The previous EarlyBird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding offerings were associated with the older boarding system and are not the same as the current assigned-seating process. Priority Boarding may be available for purchase, subject to eligibility and availability. Review the current Southwest seating and boarding information for the rules that apply to your flight.
Southwest Policies and Passenger Services at DAL
Changing or cancelling a Southwest flight
Use Southwest’s website or app to review your reservation and available change or cancellation options. Fare conditions, ticket type, and timing affect the outcome. A fare difference may apply when changing flights.
Flight delays and compensation
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, check the airline’s notifications and customer-service guidance. Compensation, refunds, meals, accommodation, or rebooking depend on the reason for the disruption and the applicable policy and law. Do not assume every delay qualifies for cash compensation.
Rapid Rewards at DAL
Southwest Rapid Rewards members can earn and redeem points on eligible travel. Sign in to your account to review points, reservations, and benefits that may apply to baggage, seating, or boarding.
Wheelchair assistance and unaccompanied minors
Request wheelchair or mobility assistance through Southwest before travel when possible, and arrive with enough time to coordinate support. Families arranging travel for an unaccompanied minor should review the airline’s age limits, fees, identification requirements, and airport handoff procedures in advance.
Southwest pets on a plane from DAL
Pet travel is subject to Southwest’s current animal, carrier, fee, and route rules. Confirm eligibility and availability before booking or arriving at the airport.
Southwest Airlines DAL phone number and contact
For Southwest Airlines DAL customer service, call 1-800-435-9792 or use the contact options on the official Southwest website. For airport-operated services such as parking, terminal facilities, and general airport information, call Dallas Love Field at 214-670-LOVE (5683).
Dallas Love Field Airport Facts and History
Dallas Love Field Airport uses the IATA code DAL and is located at 8008 Herb Kelleher Way in Dallas, Texas. It is a convenient alternative to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) for travelers whose flights operate from Love Field.
DAL Airport vs. DFW Airport
Dallas Love Field and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport are separate airports. Southwest has a major presence at DAL, while DFW serves a much broader range of airlines and international connections. Which airport is easier depends on your origin, destination, flight schedule, transportation needs, and airline.
Is Southwest a hub at DAL?
Dallas Love Field is a major Southwest operating base and an important airport for the airline’s Dallas-area service. Travelers often describe DAL as a Southwest hub, but for official planning and route information, consult Southwest’s current network and airport details.
Wright Amendment and Love Field history
The Wright Amendment was a federal law that historically restricted certain long-distance nonstop flights from Dallas Love Field. Its restrictions were phased out in 2014, changing the range of nonstop destinations that could be served. Airport operations and other applicable rules continue to shape today’s service.
How far is DAL from downtown Dallas?
Dallas Love Field is relatively close to downtown Dallas, but actual travel time depends on the route and traffic. Check a live navigation app before leaving, especially during rush hour.
Dallas Love Field airport opening hours
Passenger access and individual airline counters may follow different operating schedules. Check your flight, ticket-counter opening time, and airport guidance before arriving late at night or very early in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southwest Airlines at DAL
Southwest Airlines uses the Main Terminal at Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL).
DAL has one main passenger terminal, with gates serving its airlines.
Use Southwest’s online or mobile check-in, an available self-service kiosk, the ticket counter, or designated curbside check-in.
Plan to arrive about two hours before departure when possible. Dallas Love Field recommends at least 90 minutes, and its airline information advises a minimum of two hours.
Yes. Dallas Love Field lists curbside check-in on the upper roadway in front of Ticketing/Check-In. A per-bag service fee may apply.
Final Travel Tips for Southwest Passengers at DAL
Before leaving for Dallas Love Field, check in online when eligible, verify your gate and flight status, review the latest baggage fees, and confirm parking or rideshare pickup details. Arriving early gives you more time for bag drop, security, food, and any unexpected gate changes.
For the most accurate information, use the official Southwest airport information page, Southwest flight status, and Dallas Love Field Airport website.