Southwest Airlines is officially ending its iconic “Bags Fly Free” policy, a major shift for the carrier known for allowing two free checked bags per passenger. Starting May 28, 2025, the airline will begin charging customers for checked luggage.
Under the new policy, passengers will pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. The airline says the change is part of a broader strategy to modernize operations and align with industry norms, estimating the new fees could generate an additional $1.5 billion in annual revenue.
Who Still Gets Free Bags?
Not all travelers will be impacted. Free checked bags will remain for:
Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members Business Select fare customers A-List members (first bag free) Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cardholders (first bag free)
More Changes on the Way:
The baggage policy update is part of a series of sweeping changes at Southwest, including:
The introduction of a new Basic fare tier with fewer perks Assigned seating, replacing the traditional open seating model Additional fees for extra legroom seats Red-eye flights being added to schedules New guidelines requiring portable chargers to be visible during use due to safety protocols
What It Means for Passengers?
The decision has sparked mixed reactions from longtime customers. Many valued the simplicity and savings of Southwest’s former baggage policy. However, airline analysts note the change brings Southwest closer to competitors and may boost profitability without significantly hurting its loyal customer base.
With these updates, Southwest is signaling a clear shift in strategy—prioritizing revenue and modernization over longstanding policies that once set it apart.
