Southwest Airlines Announced That It Would Discontinue Its “Bag Fly Free” Policy

Southwest Airlines is ending its policy of offering two free checked bags to all passengers and will begin charging for the first and second checked bags on May 28.

Travelers around the globe are in disbelief as Southwest Airlines announces the cancellation of its popular “bag-free fly” policy after a decade. This complimentary baggage policy has been a hallmark of the airline since it started, providing significant benefits to Southwest Flyers—it was no doubt a massive benefit for Southwest Flyers, which explains the uproar in the wake of the company’s decision to make changes.

Later the Southwest Airlines announced the ending of “bag-free fly.” Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan said, “We have tremendous opportunity to meet current and future customer needs, attract new customer segments we don’t compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our Shareholders expect.”

Here Is What To Know About The Recent Changes In Southwest Airlines

According to Southwest’s press release, its new policy will be implemented soon. If customers plan to travel with Southwest on May 28, 2025, they will have to plan ahead and factor in baggage fees. The new policy will apply to flights booked on or after that date.

After May 28, only Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select fare passengers will be able to take advantage of two free checked bags, while B-List Members and select customers will receive one free checked bag.

The airline will introduce a new basic fare structure on the same date. Additionally, any flight credits issued on or after May 28 will expire one year or sooner, depending on the type of ticket purchased.

Based on the recent announcement, only Southwest’s most loyal customers can take advantage of free checked bags moving forward.