With all the extra fees that every airline tacks on to your fare, Southwest Airlines has always stood out for its bag policy. All passengers could check not one but two bags for free—unheard of on any other airline. But the airline is getting ready to pull the plug on this popular perk. The recent announcement comes at the heels of other changes for the airline, including new red-eye flights from Las Vegas and a plan to eliminate open seating. As air travel ramps up and airports get busier, Southwest passengers will have to find other ways to save when flying.
Why is Southwest Airlines changing their policy?
The move is part of Southwest’s broader strategy to increase profits and cater to its most loyal customers.
"We have tremendous opportunity to meet current and future Customer needs, attract new Customer segments we don’t compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our Shareholders expect," Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan said in a press release.
What is the new Southwest Airlines checked bag policy?
Not everyone will be affected. Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select passengers will still get two free bags. A-List Members and select customers will receive one free checked bag, while Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will get a credit for one. But for everyone else, bag fees are the new reality.
When will the new Southwest Airlines checked bag policy begin?
The new policy will start on May 28, 2025, and apply to all new flights booked on or after that date.
The latest Southwest Airlines checked baggage fees
While the new fees for checked bags have not been announced, the current fee for a third checked bag (after two free checked bags) is $150.