Southwest Airlines has announced that starting May 28, 2025, it will begin charging for checked baggage, ending its longstanding “Bags Fly Free” policy. This change aligns Southwest with industry norms but marks a significant departure from its customer-friendly reputation.
New Checked Baggage Policy:
- Business Select Fare and Top Loyalty Members: Passengers with Business Select tickets or those holding “A-List Preferred” status will continue to receive two free checked bags per flight.
- A-List Members and Southwest Credit Cardholders: These travelers are entitled to one free checked bag per flight.
- General Passengers: All other passengers will be required to pay for checked baggage. The specific fee amounts have not yet been disclosed.
This policy shift aims to enhance revenue and reward loyal customers. However, it has faced criticism from travelers who valued Southwest’s previous baggage benefits.
Additional Changes:
Alongside introducing checked baggage fees, Southwest is implementing other policy adjustments:
- Basic Economy Fare: The airline is introducing a basic economy fare option, which will include assigned seating but may have fewer amenities.
- Expiration of Flight Credits: Southwest is reintroducing expiration dates for flight credits, a move that has disappointed some loyal customers.
These changes reflect Southwest’s efforts to adapt to financial pressures and align with industry standards, though they represent a departure from the airline’s traditional customer-friendly policies.Southwest Airlines has announced that starting May 28, 2025, it will begin charging for checked baggage, ending its longstanding “Bags Fly Free” policy. This change aligns Southwest with industry norms but marks a significant departure from its customer-friendly reputation.