Does Southwest offer compensation for canceled flights? Like many other airlines, Southwest Airlines may experience flight delays as a result of bad weather, staffing issues, or mechanical issues. Within 30 minutes of Southwest finding out a delay of 30 minutes or more, you will receive a text, call, or email advising you of it. Southwest Airlines often pays travelers for difficulties with the company. Southwest bases its decision to offer the service on the inconvenience it will give the customer. LUV certificates with a 12-month validity period are additionally offered by Southwest Delay Compensation.