Major Changes Coming to Southwest, Including New Bag Fees and Basic Economy

Rio Linda travelers, get ready for some big changes at Southwest Airlines. The airline, famous for its “bags fly free” policy, is now set to charge for checked luggage, a move that signals a significant shift in its long-standing customer-friendly approach.  

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

• Farewell to Free Checked Bags:
  • Starting with bookings on or after May 28th, most Southwest passengers will have to pay to check their bags.
  • Only those with the highest loyalty status or those purchasing the most expensive tickets will still enjoy two free checked bags.  
  • Lower-tier loyalty members and Southwest credit card holders will get one free checked bag.
  • Southwest has not yet announced the specific fees for checked bags.
• Introduction of Basic Economy-Style Fares:
  • Southwest is introducing a new, more restrictive “bare-bones” fare, similar to basic economy tickets offered by other airlines.  
  • This new fare will come with limitations, including the lack of advance seat assignments.  
• Flight Credit Expiration:
  • Rapid Rewards flight credits will now have expiration dates. This reverses the pandemic-era policy of no expiration dates.
• Why the Change?
  • Southwest is aiming to improve its financial performance and has faced pressure from investors to do so.  
  • The airline has been lagging behind competitors who have long charged for checked bags and offered basic economy fares.  
  • The airline has been making other changes as well, like assigned seating, and adding extra leg room seats for purchase.  

What This Means for Rio Linda Flyers:

• If you frequently fly Southwest and rely on free checked bags, you’ll likely see increased travel costs.
• The new basic economy-style fares may offer lower prices, but with significant restrictions.  
• It is advised that if you plan to fly southwest, book your flights before may 28th to avoid some of these new fees.

Southwest’s decision marks a major departure from its traditional values. The airline, once a disruptor in the industry, is now adapting to the financial realities of the modern airline landscape.

What do you think of these changes, Rio Linda? Will this affect your travel plans?

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