Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) for both arrivals Southwest Airlines DCA Terminal and departures. It is recommended that passengers arrive at DCA 90 minutes in advance of all domestic flights to ensure sufficient time to complete the process through check-in and security checkpoints. The ticket counter opens 120 minutes before the first departing flight each day, and all checked bags must be processed at least 45 minutes prior to departure. After check-in, go through security to your gate in Terminal 1. Upon arrival, follow signs to the baggage claim area on Level 1 for your luggage. For international arrivals, passengers will need to clear customs and immigration before proceeding to baggage claim.Â