Southwest Airlines Introduces Checked Bag Fees and New Boarding Process

Southwest Airlines is making big changes. After years of letting passengers check up to two bags for free, the airline will now charge a fee for checked bags. Only those in the top tiers of the Rapid Rewards program, passengers with business class tickets, or holders of the airline’s credit card will continue to enjoy free checked bags.

This new policy will start on flights booked from May 28, 2025. Southwest has not shared the exact fee details yet. CEO Bob Jordan said the change will help the airline meet current and future customer needs. He explained that the move is also meant to improve profitability for the company and its shareholders.

Southwest has faced some tough times recently. The airline recently cut 1,750 jobs, which is about 15% of its corporate workforce. This was the first major round of layoffs in 53 years. The job cuts are part of a plan to make the company leaner and more agile. Although free checked bags were once the airline’s signature offer, many competitors have long charged fees for luggage.

In addition to the bag fees, Southwest is changing its boarding process. The airline will replace its long-used open boarding system with assigned seating next year. This change marks a new era for Southwest as it adapts to a more competitive market.

Some passengers are not happy with these changes. Dorothy Severson, one traveler, said, “I would rather have the free checked bags, that’s for sure.” Stay tuned for more updates as Southwest rolls out these new policies.

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