Expect to pay more the next time you fly Southwest. The airline announced today that it will be removing its free checked bag perk for many of its flyers.
Only select flyers will be able to qualify for free checked bags. Offers include:
- Two free checked bags for Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and customers traveling with Business Select fares.
- One free checked bag to A-List Members and other select customers.
- Credit one checked bag for Rapid Rewards credit card members.
If flyers do not fall under any of those groups, they will be charged for a first and second checked back for flights booked on or after May 28. The pricing for first and second checked bags has yet to be announced.
“We have tremendous opportunity to meet current and future customer needs, attract new customer segments we don’t compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our Shareholders expect,” said Bob Jordan, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at Southwest Airlines in a press release. “We will do all this while remaining focused on what’s made us strong—our people and the authentic, friendly, and award-winning customer service only they can provide.”
The new bag policy is just one of the initiatives that were announced by Southwest. The airline is also changing the number of Rapid Rewards points customers can earn on qualifying flights. Those who fly Business Select will be able to earn more points, while those with Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fares will earn less.
Customers can expect a new, Basic fare as well. According to the release, “Southwest will introduce a new, Basic fare on [its] lowest priced tickets purchased on or after May 28, 2025, in advance of offering assigned seating and extra legroom options.”
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
