Southwest Airlines known for its passenger-friendly baggage policy, will start charging passengers for checked bags. For a long time, the airline has been offering two free checked bags and it was a signature perk that many travellers appreciated. From now on, starting 28 May 2025, Southwest will begin charging passengers $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. The new fees will apply to all new bookings and flight changes made on or after that date.
If a passenger already has a flight booked, the old policy still applies, as long as the ticket was purchased before the cutoff, two bags will be checked for free.
This marks a big shift for Southwest, which has long marketed itself as the “no hidden fees” airline. But company leaders say the change is necessary. According to Southwest, the new baggage charges could bring in an estimated $1.5 billion per year, helping the airline stay financially competitive.
Still, not everyone will be paying these new fees. If you’re a frequent flyer or a loyal Southwest customer, you might be eligible for free bags:
- Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, Business Select passengers, and future Choice Extra fare travellers (coming in 2026) will still get two checked bags at no extra cost.
- Rapid Rewards A-list members and Southwest credit card holders will be allowed one free checked bag.
The bag fee is part of a wider transformation of the airline. Southwest plans to introduce a basic economy fare later this year, offering lower prices but less flexibility, such as no flight changes and no standby travel. Along with that, in 2026, options for extra legroom and assigned seating will cost extra.
The changes bring up concerns that charging for checked bags could lead to more passengers bringing carry-ons, which may slow down boarding and strain overhead bin space. To get ahead of that, Southwest says it’s investing in technology — including AI tools that help manage airport traffic and baggage flow.
Earlier this month, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), in collaboration with airlines, airports, and industry partners, launched a 10-year plan to modernize global baggage operations, focusing on real-time tracking, electronic bag tags, and replacing outdated communication systems with API-driven messaging standards. The goal is to improve efficiency, reduce mishandling, and enhance the passenger experience.
For loyal customers, the end of “bag-free” flights may feel like the end of an era, as that policy offered real savings for families and frequent flyers. But as the airline industry continues to change, Southwest is choosing to adapt — even if it means letting go of a beloved perk. For future travellers, it means one more thing to budget for before takeoff.
