Southwest Airlines is ending its decades-old free baggage policy, a move that’s upsetting longtime flyers and raising questions about the airline’s future strategy. With fares staying the same and perks disappearing, customers are asking—what’s left?
Key Facts:
- Southwest Airlines will begin charging for checked bags starting tomorrow.
- The new fees are $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second, aligning with most other U.S. carriers.
- The airline previously allowed two free checked bags per passenger, a signature feature for decades.
- Only A-List loyalty members and co-branded credit card holders will still receive one free bag.
- Southwest is also moving away from open seating and introducing assigned seats this fall.
The Rest of The Story:
Southwest Airlines is scrapping one of its most iconic perks: two free checked bags for every traveler.
The change, effective immediately, brings the airline in line with industry pricing norms but removes one of its key points of differentiation.
The move, originally announced in March, is aimed at increasing revenue and fending off pressure from activist investors.
Executives previously estimated the airline could generate $1.5 billion annually from baggage fees, but warned it could cost them up to $1.8 billion in lost customer loyalty.
The decision comes as the company also plans to ditch open seating, long considered part of its quirky charm.
Many loyal customers aren’t pleased.
Online forums like Reddit saw angry reactions and talk of boycotts.
Experts also remain skeptical, suggesting the shift won’t significantly boost profits amid soft demand and increased competition.
Commentary:
Southwest is taking a massive risk by gutting the one policy that made it stand out.
For years, travelers put up with the no-frills experience, delayed flights, and lack of seat assignments because they didn’t have to nickel and dime over luggage.
Now, with the bag fees mirroring other airlines and no clear advantage in ticket pricing or service, the appeal is gone.
The experience was never luxurious—but at least it was simple and cost-effective.
That’s no longer the case.
To make matters worse, Southwest’s once-strong reputation for punctuality and reliability has declined in recent years.
Cleanliness and maintenance don’t stand out either.
Stripping away perks without improving the core product is a formula for disaster.
Sure, they offer free bags to credit card holders—but the card comes with an annual fee, and the miles aren’t even transferable.
Travelers have better options.
If you’re going to pay bag fees and annual card fees, why not get a better flying experience elsewhere?
Adding assigned seating this fall may seem like a step forward, but for many, it’s too little too late.
Customers already feel burned.
Once loyalty is lost, it’s hard to get it back—especially when the competition is just as affordable but more comfortable and convenient.
The Bottom Line:
Southwest Airlines has eliminated its popular free baggage policy in a push for more revenue.
While the move aligns it with industry norms, it strips away what many considered its last real advantage.
Customer backlash has already begun, and expert forecasts suggest the policy change may do little to help Southwest’s long-term financial picture.
The gamble may backfire—and loyal flyers may already be walking away.
Read Next
– DNC Vice Chair Takes Heat For His Choice of Who The Leader of the Democratic Party Should Be
– Illegal Alien Caught Stealing $400,000 in Taxpayer Benefits, Voting in 2024 Election
– UK Considering Mandatory Chemical Castration For Sex Offenders