Southwest Airlines is making a major change, and passengers aren’t thrilled, starting May 28, checked bags will no longer be free.
After decades of standing by its “Bags Fly Free” policy, Southwest is shifting gears, joining the ranks of airlines that charge for checked luggage. If you’re a frequent Southwest traveler, here’s what you need to know about the change, why it’s happening, and how it might impact ticket prices.
What’s Changing?
For the first time in its nearly 60-year history, Southwest will start charging for the first and second checked bags. The airline hasn’t yet revealed the exact pricing, but it’s expected to roll out fees similar to competitors like Delta and United. The only exemptions? A-List loyalty members and business fare travelers, everyone else will have to pay.
This shift comes months after Southwest scrapped its open seating policy, signaling a move toward a more traditional airline model.
Why Is Southwest Doing This?
According to CEO Bob Jordan, the airline is looking to boost profits and attract new customers. While Southwest has long prided itself on simplicity and transparency, it’s also been lagging behind competitors in revenue from baggage fees.
To put things in perspective:
- Southwest made $73 million from baggage fees in 2023.
- American Airlines made $1.4 billion in baggage fees.
- United Airlines raked in $1.2 billion, while Delta earned $985 million from checked bag fees.
Clearly, Southwest saw an opportunity, and took it.
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
If you’re a loyal Southwest flyer, this change could mean:
- Higher ticket prices won’t necessarily follow. Instead of raising fares, Southwest is opting to monetize baggage.
- Overhead bins could get even more crowded as passengers try to avoid fees by bringing more carry-ons.
- The boarding process might slow down, as passengers scramble to find space for their bags.
For business travelers and frequent flyers, the A-List exemption is a big perk, but for the everyday traveler, this marks the end of an era.
Southwest’s Other Big Changes
This isn’t the only shift happening at Southwest. Here’s what else is new:
- Assigned seating coming in 2026 – The airline is phasing out its long-time open seating model.
- Premium seating options – More fare classes, including Basic Economy, are coming soon.
- Selling tickets on Expedia – Southwest traditionally sold fares only on its own website, but now it’s expanding.
- Mass layoffs – The airline cut 15% of its corporate workforce to save $210 million this year.
With activist investors pushing for higher profits, Southwest is looking less like the budget airline it used to be and more like its competitors.
Love it or hate it, Southwest’s “Bags Fly Free” policy is officially history. For travelers who loved the airline’s simplicity, this move is disappointing, but for Southwest, it’s a clear play to increase revenue.
Will this change your airline of choice? Let us know what you think.
