Southwest Airlines recently announced a significant change to its baggage policy. Beginning May 28, the airline will charge customers to check bags. As I’ve described, this decision fits perfectly with our larger strategy. We’re committed to staying ahead of the industry’s standards and moving business forward as we all rebound from the pandemic’s devastation on travel.
Under southwest’s clear new policy, southwest will now charge travelers a $35 fee for that first checked bag. Passengers are still required to pay $45 for each additional bag they check. These fees are charged across all fare types. That includes the recently released Basic fare, but Wanna Get Away Plus and Anytime fares. For travelers flying on Southwest connecting via their partner carriers, travelers will be exempt from these pesky fees.
The carrier is doing an about-face on its policy. Now, the number of bags passengers can check for free is capped, and they have to pay additional fees for each bag. This policy shift is a broader trend across the airline industry, with most carriers having enacted this or analogous fees. Southwest aims to bring its pricing strategies in line with competitors while still offering a more affordable travel option through its Basic fare, which launches on May 28.
Southwest Airlines has rolled out the checked bag fees. For members of the Rapid Rewards A-List program and travelers in Business Select or Choice Extra classes, complimentary checked bags will stick around. It’s important for travelers with confirmed bookings to know what’s changing on or after May 28. Those changes will be subject to the new charges.
Headquartered in Dallas, Southwest Airlines has long made a name for itself based on customer-friendly policies such as no charge for checked bags. These recent changes might indicate a broader pivot in response to new market realities back to an earlier emphasis on revenue generation.
As travelers prepare for the bustling summer travel season, they should be ready to factor these new fees into the cost of their trips. Southwest’s leadership hopes that this updated policy will not only help balance its financials but enhance customer experience by streamlining operations.
