Southwest Airlines is changing its baggage policy, departing from its long-standing tradition of providing all passengers with two free checked bags.
Beginning May 28, 2025, only Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select fare passengers will continue to receive two free checked bags.
A-List Members and select customers will receive one complimentary checked bag, while Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders will receive a credit for one checked bag. All other passengers must now pay for their first and second checked bags, with weight and size restrictions remaining in place.
The move is part of a larger strategy to increase profitability and serve Southwest’s most loyal customers. “We have tremendous opportunity to meet current and future customer needs, attract new customer segments we do not compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our shareholders expect,” Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan stated in a news release.
In addition to baggage fees, Southwest is changing its loyalty program, awarding more points for Business Select fares while decreasing rewards for lower-tier tickets. A new Basic fare will be introduced for the most budget-conscious travelers, along with assigned seating and extra legroom options.
Southwest, known for its no-frills, customer-friendly policies, is expanding its distribution channels, with flights now available on Expedia. The airline will also reduce the flexibility of flight credits, which will now expire one year or earlier from the date of purchase.
Despite the changes, Southwest says it remains committed to operational excellence, with the industry’s best on-time performance in 2025 and a 98.3% completion rate for scheduled flights.
