08-05-2025
When will Southwest start charging for bags? What to know about Southwest policy changes
One of America's most popular airlines, known for its affordability and open-seating policy, is making some big changes that will affect its customers experience.
Southwest Airlines has announced it will no longer offer two free checked bags for every ticket-holder, and will eventually offer assigned seating at different price points.
Here's what we know about when these changes will take effect.
Starting May 28, 2025, checked baggage fees will apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus and Anytime fares. This is the first time in the airline's 54 years that it will charge for customers' first and second checked bags.
Business Select fares and A-List Preferred Members will still receive two free checked bags. A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will receive one free checked bag.
While Southwests hasn't announced its checked bag fees, the airline said they will align with industry standards.
The policy change is part of Southwest's efforts to boost profits and cater to the airlines most loyal customers, USA TODAY reported.
The days of checking in 24 hours in advance for your Southwest flight, in order to score an early boarding spot and therefore better seats on your flight, will soon be gone.
Southwest will begin offering reservations with assigned seats in the second half of 2025, which will be for flights taking off in 2026.
There will be three seat options to choose from: Standard, Preferred and Extra Legroom.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: When will Southwest start charging for bags, end open-seating policy?
