Southwest Airlines Introduces Baggage Fees, Ends Era of Free Checked⁢ Bags

⁢ Updated May 26, 2025

After more than half a century, Southwest Airlines will begin charging⁢ for checked bags Wednesday, ending its long-standing “two ⁣bags fly free” policy. This change marks a important shift for the ⁣airline, which has long differentiated ‍itself⁢ from ‍competitors through this perk. the move to introduce ⁤baggage fees comes amid pressure to increase revenue, as baggage fees generated nearly $7.3 billion‍ for ⁤U.S. airlines last year.

The airline has not yet announced the specific amount it will charge per bag. Though, other major airlines typically charge between $35 and $40 for the first checked bag‍ on domestic flights. In addition to ⁣the new baggage fees, Southwest is also rolling out basic economy tickets and assigned seating later this year, signaling a broader transformation of its business model.

The⁤ new baggage fee policy will apply to Southwest’s Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, and Anytime fares for tickets purchased on or after Wednesday. However, a Southwest spokesman confirmed that tickets purchased before Wednesday will still honor ‍the original terms, including the‍ two free checked bags.

Exemptions to the New Baggage Fees

Despite the new fees, some travelers will still be able to check bags for free.Passengers with ⁤top-tier status in Southwest’s Rapid Rewards loyalty program and those flying on Business Select fares will continue to receive two⁣ free checked bags. Additionally, customers ⁣who have a Southwest Airlines co-branded credit card, along with ⁣travel companions booked on the⁢ same reservation, will have their first ⁢standard checked bag waived. A-List frequent flyer members, the second-highest tier in the loyalty program, will also have their first bag checked free.

New Basic Economy Fare

alongside the baggage fee changes, southwest is also introducing a basic economy ticket option.Customers purchasing this fare will face restrictions, including being unable to make changes ⁤to their tickets, boarding last, and‍ having fare‍ credits that expire in six months instead of the 12 months offered with other ticket classes. The airline is also discontinuing its Wanna Get Away⁤ fare, previously the lowest-tier ticket.

Assigned Seating on the Horizon

Known for its open-seating policy, Southwest will begin selling tickets later this year for flights ⁤in 2026 that include assigned seating. The airline is also adding extra legroom seats to its planes, similar to those offered by competitors, which will be available at a higher price.

Preparing for⁣ Increased carry-On Luggage

Southwest executives anticipate an increase in carry-on luggage due to the new baggage fees.To accommodate this, the airline is installing larger overhead bins on its Boeing fleet. Staff will also be equipped with mobile bag-tag printers at gates and airport lobbies to assist passengers.

Customer Reaction

The declaration of the new baggage policy has generated⁢ considerable backlash on social media. Despite the negative feedback, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan stated that the company has not seen a decline in bookings since the policy change was announced in March.

What’s next

Travelers should carefully review their ticket options and consider the potential costs of checked baggage when booking flights with ⁤Southwest Airlines. Those eligible for exemptions‍ should ensure their loyalty program status or credit card benefits are properly applied to avoid unexpected fees.