Do You Agree with Southwest Airlines’ Decision to End Free Checked Bags in the Name of Profitability?
Do You Agree with Southwest Airlines’ Decision to End Free Checked Bags in the Name of Profitability?
Here’s The Scoop
In a surprising move that has left many frequent flyers scratching their heads, Southwest Airlines is stepping away from its long-standing tradition of offering free checked bags—a policy that has been a hallmark of its customer-friendly approach. This shift marks a significant change in the airline’s strategy as it seeks to boost revenue and meet shareholder expectations.
Starting May 28, passengers will face charges for their first and second checked bags. However, Southwest is offering a reprieve for its most loyal customers. Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and those flying on Business Select fares will still enjoy the perk of two free checked bags, a clear incentive to join the airline’s loyalty program. Meanwhile, A-List Members and select customers will receive one free checked bag.
This change is part of a larger strategy by CEO Bob Jordan to attract new customer segments and address financial pressures that have been mounting in recent years. While Southwest once stood out among its competitors by allowing free checked bags—a policy that resonated with budget-conscious travelers—the airline is now pivoting to align more closely with industry norms.
In addition to the baggage policy overhaul, Southwest is also shaking up its seating arrangements. After more than five decades of open seating, the airline announced plans to introduce assigned seating and premium options, aiming to boost profits with higher rates for these upgraded seats. This move will see about one-third of seats offering extended legroom, similar to what other airlines provide on narrow-body aircraft.
While the exact launch date for these seating changes remains under wraps, Southwest is set to roll out a new basic fare for its lowest-priced tickets starting May 28. This strategic shift reflects the airline’s efforts to adapt to a competitive market while still attempting to maintain some of its unique offerings.
As Southwest navigates these changes, travelers are left to wonder how these new policies will impact their flying experience. The airline’s decision to charge for checked bags and introduce premium seating could be seen as a departure from the customer-first approach that once set it apart. However, in an industry where profitability often trumps tradition, Southwest is making it clear that it’s ready to evolve.
What do you think? Let us know by participating in our poll, or join the discussion in the comment section below!
Mark Smith
March 14, 2025 at 7:34 am
I don’t fly anymore so I really don’t care if they want to cut their own throat.
Wendy Alexakos
March 14, 2025 at 8:45 am
We have only flown Southwest, because of their current policies, so as the flight attendants say on Southwest flights, “We know that you have many choices when you fly…”, so depending on their future pricing will determine who we choose to fly with. No more loyalty to Southwest and may need to cancel our Southwest credit card.
R. Earl
March 14, 2025 at 10:09 am
I am a retired SWA pilot. I have no use for what my former company has become. This is only one reason for that disdain!
Jerry C.
March 14, 2025 at 7:07 pm
It should be law that every airline ticket comes with one checked bag & one carry-on included at no extra cost. Profitability is one thing but screwing-over customers and getting away with it is another. The very first time an airline pulled the “no checked baggage” scam, the government should’ve slapped them down. Instead, it became precedent that now costs everyone.