Southwest Airlines, long known for its customer-friendly policies, is making a significant change to its baggage offerings. Starting in May 2025, the airline will limit its free checked baggage allowance to a select group of passengers, marking the end of its policy that has allowed all travelers to check two bags free of charge.

The Change: Who Will Benefit?

Under the new policy, free checked bags will still be available to:

• A-List Preferred Members
• Business Select Passengers
• A-List Members
• Rapid Rewards Credit Card Holders

These groups will continue to enjoy the benefit of two free checked bags per flight. However, passengers outside of these categories will now be subject to the usual baggage fees, which can add up quickly for those with multiple checked bags.

What Does This Mean for Regular Passengers?

For the average traveler who isn’t an A-List member or Business Select passenger, the new policy will mean a shift in how they plan their trips. Southwest has built its brand on offering two free checked bags, a major selling point for many who are looking to avoid extra charges during air travel. For those who do not fall into the above categories, additional fees for checked luggage will become the norm. Passengers will need to budget accordingly for these potential additional costs.

Southwest has indicated that it will still provide one free carry-on bag for all passengers, but for those who typically check two bags, the new charges could be seen as a blow to the airline’s once-distinctive advantage.

The Industry Context

The change comes amid increasing pressure from competitors, who have long charged for checked baggage. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United have had baggage fees for years, creating a disparity that Southwest had managed to avoid until now. While Southwest’s decision to implement baggage fees for certain passengers signals a shift in its business model, it is also a response to industry trends aimed at generating more revenue from non-ticket sources.

Airlines across the industry have gradually moved towards a more profit-driven structure, adding additional fees for everything from seat selection to in-flight meals. Southwest’s move to limit free checked bags brings it closer in line with this broader trend, although it remains to be seen how it will impact customer loyalty.

Reactions and Concerns

The change has already sparked reactions from both travelers and industry observers. Some have expressed concerns that the shift will affect Southwest’s reputation as a budget-friendly airline, especially since free checked baggage was a major selling point for many passengers. It could also lead to a decrease in bookings from families or travelers with large amounts of luggage.

In contrast, some see this as a necessary step for Southwest to stay competitive in an increasingly challenging market. With rising fuel costs, labor shortages, and the general pressure of the post-pandemic travel boom, airlines are looking for ways to bolster their bottom lines. Reducing the number of passengers who take advantage of free checked bags could allow Southwest to focus more on its premium customer segments.

Looking Ahead

For now, Southwest has not disclosed the exact pricing for additional checked bags under the new policy. However, it’s clear that the airline is shifting its approach to how it generates revenue from passengers, particularly in the face of changing market dynamics. Travelers will need to weigh the value of Southwest’s other offerings, such as no change fees and free Wi-Fi, against the additional baggage costs when booking their flights.

The new baggage policy will go into effect in May 2025, and Southwest plans to provide more detailed information as the date approaches. For now, passengers should consider enrolling in Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program or purchasing a Business Select ticket if they wish to continue enjoying the benefits of free checked luggage.

As always, it’s important for travelers to stay informed about airline policies, especially in an environment where changes are frequent and often significant.

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