Flyers fume as Southwest Airlines shocks passengers with policy changes — key updates you need to know
Southwest Airlines Ends 'Bags Fly Free' for Most Travelers
As of May 28, the Dallas-based carrier began charging passengers for their first and second checked bags, a move that marks a major shift from its decades-old policy of offering two free checked bags for all passengers, according to a report. Now, most travelers will pay $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second, the same rates charged by major competitors like American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines, as reported by Newsweek.
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Why Southwest Changed Course
Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan
explained during an interview with The New York Times, that the move is part of a broader plan to stay competitive, modernize the airline, and meet changing traveler expectations in a post-pandemic world, as reported by Newsweek. The new baggage policy is expected improve Southwest's profitability and to net the airline $4 billion in profit, according to the report.
He highlighted that, "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," as quoted in the report.
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Jordan emphasized that, "Change is hard, and change is emotional. The needs of customers, employees and investors don't have to be at odd," as quoted by Newsweek.
He also pointed out that the changes were not only led by investor pressure but also reflected broader industry trends and consumer behavior as almost all other US airlines and many others around the world charge for taking bags and added that, "There is a bit of catch-up here because we're moving to that world, but in months, not a decade," as quoted in the report.
CEO Defends Move, Says Southwest Airlines is Evolving
During the interview, when the CEO was asked about whether the changes reward frequent customers and potentially leave out those who don't fly Southwest as much, Jordan responded saying that the airline is "not abandoning anybody," as reported by Newsweek.
He emphasized that, "You are going to get great fares on Southwest Airlines, period," and added that, "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," as quoted in the report.
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Some Flyers Still Get Free Bags
However, Southwest Airline's latest updated policy will have some benefits for certain travelers, like Business Select flyers and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members will 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, as reported by Newsweek.
FAQs
When did Southwest's baggage policy change?
The new policy took effect on May 28, 2025, for flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after that date, as per the Newsweek report.
How much does it cost now to check a bag on Southwest?
Most passengers will pay $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second.
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