I have now had 2 instances where buying an Early Bird Pass did absolutely nothing for me. In one instance, a woman directly in front of me had a B boarding pass and was allowed to board prior to me, having an A.
Second instance my wife paid for Early Bird and I did not. When boarding pass was issued I had an earlier position than she did. HUH?
Customer service manager (not at a toll free number WOW) told me the system worked as should have even though I clearly should not have been issued an earlier boarding than an "Early Bird" boarding. I told her she was wrong (obviously).
She indicated that I had the option of not purchasing an Early Bird fare (DUH). I told her that I also have the option of flying another airline and she indicated go right ahead. OK DONE
Good luck Southwest with your obvious contempt for your customers your debt for Air Tran is going to be ummmmmm interesting.
SOUTWEST why are you spending millions on advertising and then telling your customers to KISS OFF???????????????
DON'T BUY THE EARLY BIRD FARES, IT IS A SCAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!