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  • Know Before You Go: United and Southwest Airlines Announce New Policies
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Know Before You Go: United and Southwest Airlines Announce New Policies

The airlines have new check-in and baggage fee policies.

By Debbie Williams May 28, 2025 at 12:22 pm

The summer travel season is in full gear, and based on spring statistics, record numbers will be traveling through local airports. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is reporting that domestic travel at Dulles International Airport increased 13.4 percent this March as compared to last year.

Before you pack your bags and head to the airport, make sure you know these new airline policies.

United Airlines

Effective June 3, United is changing its cut-off time for checking in for a domestic flight. The new cut-off time will be 45 minutes before flight departure for all travelers.

The 45-minute timing already applies to passengers who are checking bags. It now also applies to passengers who are not checking in luggage. The previous check-in limit was 30 minutes.

Southwest Airlines

For flights booked on or after May 28, Southwest will begin charging baggage fees. The airline will charge $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.

Only select flyers will qualify for free checked bags. These include Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and passengers traveling with Business Select fares. 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. 

Feature image courtesy United Airlines

Debbie Williams

Debbie Williams

Senior Editor

Northern Virginia Magazine Senior Editor Debbie Williams is a George Mason University graduate and longtime NoVA resident. She has more than 20 years of experience writing and editing for a variety of nonprofit, lifestyle, and government publications, including for AARP.org and USA TODAY magazines.

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