Set your alarms! Starting Wednesday, Southwest Airlines will implement checked baggage fees for the first time in over half a century, marking a significant shift in its customer service model. For decades, the airline has proudly offered its passengers the ability to check two bags for free, a policy deeply cherished by travelers and a hallmark of the airline's brand identity. However, the mounting pressure to increase revenue has led Southwest to reconsider this long-standing practice.
According to federal data, U.S. airlines generated nearly $7.3 billion in revenue from baggage fees last year. With this in mind, Southwest executives, who have historically defended the free checked bag policy, are now making changes to adapt to the competitive airline market. While the exact fees for checking bags have not yet been announced, industry standards suggest that competitors typically charge around $35 to $40 for the first checked bag on domestic flights.
In addition to the new checked baggage fees, Southwest is overhauling its business model. Starting Wednesday, the airline will discontinue its open seating policy, a hallmark of its service that has allowed passengers to choose their seats on a first-come-first-served basis. Furthermore, the airline is introducing basic-economy tickets, similar to offerings from major competitors like Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.
Effective immediately, Southwest Airlines will no longer provide two free checked bags for many tickets purchased on or after Wednesday. However, tickets purchased prior to this date will still honor the previous policy, allowing travelers to check two bags free of charge. The new fees will apply to various fare types, including the no-frills Basic fare, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares.
Southwest has established certain exemptions to the new baggage fees. Customers with top-tier status in the Rapid Rewards loyalty program will still be entitled to check two bags for free. Additionally, travelers who purchase the highest-level Business Select fares, as well as those who hold a Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card and are traveling with companions on the same booking, will not incur charges for their first checked bag. Furthermore, A-List frequent flyer members, who hold the second-highest tier in the loyalty program, will also benefit from a complimentary first checked bag.
Another significant change is the introduction of basic economy fares. Customers opting for this new fare type will face restrictions, including an inability to modify their tickets. They will also board the plane last and have fare credits that expire in six months, compared to twelve months for other fare classes. Moreover, Southwest is discontinuing its Wanna Get Away tickets, which were previously the most economical option available.
For years, Southwest has been synonymous with its open-seating model, where loyal flyers often check in a day early to secure better boarding positions. However, by the end of the year, the airline plans to introduce assigned seating for flights scheduled in 2026. Additionally, Southwest will be upgrading its fleet to include extra legroom seats, similar to offerings from other airlines, which will be available at a premium price.
In light of the new baggage fees, Southwest executives anticipate that passengers will choose to carry on more luggage. To accommodate this change, the airline is enhancing its overhead bin space on its Boeing fleet. Furthermore, staff will be equipped with mobile bag-tag printers at gates and airport lobbies to assist customers efficiently.
The announcement of the new baggage policy has stirred significant reactions among Southwest's customer base. Social media channels have been flooded with comments expressing dissatisfaction with the changes, even when posts feature innocuous content like adorable babies or puppies on board. Nevertheless, CEO Bob Jordan reassured stakeholders during an interview with CNBC that the initial announcement made on March 11 has not led to a decline in bookings. “We have seen no book-down on that day or after that day,” he stated confidently.
As Southwest Airlines embarks on this new chapter, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about these changes and how they may affect their travel plans. With the introduction of baggage fees and basic economy fares, it’s essential to understand the implications for your next journey with Southwest.
