Southwest Airlines Is Changing Its Baggage Policy—Here's Why
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Southwest Airlines, long praised for its "Bags Fly Free" policy, announced in March it would end free checked baggage for most travelers.
The revised policy took effect on May 28, requiring the majority of passengers to pay for their first and second checked bags.
CEO Bob Jordan has been explaining that the change marks a major shift as the airline seeks new revenue and a wider customer base.
Why the Policy Changed
Jordan described the new baggage policy as part of a broader transformation designed to meet evolving traveler expectations and improve Southwest's profitability. It is expected to net the airline $4 billion in profit.
"Customers today want a lot of choice, especially coming out of the pandemic. The customer's needs and wants are just different. The move to bag fees is really about choice," Jordan said in an interview with The New York Times.
Jordan added: "Change is hard, and change is emotional. The needs of customers, employees and investors don't have to be at odds." He said that the changes were not solely driven by investor pressure but reflected broader industry trends and consumer behavior—almost all other U.S. airlines and many others around the world charge for taking bags.
"There is a bit of catch-up here because we're moving to that world, but in months, not a decade," he said.
When asked about whether the changes reward frequent customers and potentially leave out those who don't fly Southwest as much, Jordan said the airline is "not abandoning anybody."
"You are going to get great fares on Southwest Airlines, period," he continued. "My whole point is there's more coming to the strategy as we keep evolving, but it's all about staying true to who we are—best people, best hospitality, best service—while stretching the model to meet the needs of our customers."
Southwest Boeing 737-800 airplane at Dallas Love Field airport (DAL) in the United States on November 9, 2022.
Southwest Boeing 737-800 airplane at Dallas Love Field airport (DAL) in the United States on November 9, 2022.
Boarding1Now/GETTY
How Southwest Compares to Competitors
Previously, Southwest was unique as the only major U.S. airline offering two free checked bags for all passengers.
Now, its new policy brings it in line with competitors such as American, Delta, and United Airlines, each charging between $35 and $40 for a first checked bag and $45 to $50 for a second.
A Southwest spokesperson told Newsweek: "Southwest will be charging $35 for a first checked bag and $45 for a second checked bag (weight and size limits apply) for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28."
Southwest's updated policy does retain some benefits for certain travelers; Business Select flyers and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members may continue to check two bags for free, while A-List status holders and Southwest credit card users can check one bag at no extra cost.
What Happens Next
The airline is expected to continue adapting its business model, with further updates to fare classes and rewards programs on the horizon.
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