I have a flight tomorrow AM starting on Airtran and then continuing on Southwest. I booked the ticket on Airtran. I have never flown on Southwest and am so worked up over not being able to check-in because I have a family of 5 with me (2 adults, 3 kids ages 5, 3 and an infant) and we want to be able to sit together.

I don't know what to do! The error message on the Airtran check-in website says

"We're sorry, we are having trouble processing your request.

If the problem continues, please see an AirTran Airways ticket agent at the airport for assistance. [5135: CheckInErrorUnableToCheck]"

Airtran customer service says she is unable to check us in and that we have to go to the airport to do so. I have periodically tried to check online again and am getting the same error. Our flight is at 6:45am. Its already going to be stressful getting the kids out that early in the morning.

Any suggestions?

Since you have kids you will be allowed to board after A boards and before B if I remember correctly. I wouldn't worry about checking in at this point. You most likely won't get an A boarding pass.