Southwest Ends Decades-Long Free Checked Bags Perk

Southwest Airlines is ending its decades-long policy of allowing passengers to check up to two bags for free, with fees of $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second starting May 28, 2025. This change primarily affects customers who are not part of the upper tiers of the Rapid Rewards loyalty program, business class ticket holders, or credit card users who receive baggage credits. The airline estimated that while bag fees could generate approximately $1.5 billion annually, it might lose $1.8 billion in business from travelers attracted by its former free baggage policy. This shift aligns Southwest with the broader industry trend where most major U.S. airlines have charged for checked bags for over a decade, and it responds to investor pressure to boost revenue amid recent earnings challenges. Additionally, Southwest is implementing a new rule requiring passengers to keep portable chargers in plain sight due to safety concerns over lithium-ion battery fires. These changes mark a significant departure from the airline's traditional customer-friendly approach and reflect efforts to adapt to competitive and financial pressures.