Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy Ends Free Checked Bags After 50 Years

Southwest Airlines' "bags fly free" policy, the life-blood of their customer-friendly approach for six decades, will soon end. Starting May 28, 2025, passengers must pay for their first and second checked bags. This marks a dramatic change from the airline's legendary free baggage era. The change shows a major departure for Southwest, which collected just $73 million in baggage fees during 2023. This stands in stark contrast to American Airlines' $1.4 billion and United Airlines' $1.2 billion. Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and Business Select fare passengers will still enjoy free checked bags. On top of that, while Southwest hasn't announced specific fees yet, they might charge around $35 per bag - similar to other major airlines.

Southwest Airlines Announces Major Baggage Policy Shift

Southwest Airlines has ended its signature "bags fly free" program, which changes a policy that shaped the carrier's identity for more than five decades. The Dallas-based airline says passengers who book flights from May 28 will pay new baggage fees, unless they belong to specific loyalty tiers or fare categories.

CEO Reveals End of 'Bags Fly Free' Era

Bob Jordan, Southwest Airlines' President and CEO, made these changes after defending the free baggage policy at a company event last September. Jordan showed enthusiasm for Southwest's customer-friendly policies back then and stressed how much complimentary checked bags meant. The airline's analysis shows changed post-pandemic travel patterns, with different short-haul needs and more premium travel priorities.

Southwest could make about $1.50 billion annually by charging baggage fees. Their earlier analysis showed that keeping bags free could have kept $1.80 billion in business from loyal customers who picked Southwest just for this perk. This big change moves away from Southwest's usual approach, especially since 97% of customers said free baggage was why they chose the carrier.

New Tiered System Takes Effect May 28

Southwest's revised baggage policy creates a new tiered system:

• Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and Business Select fare passengers keep two free checked bags
• A-List members and Southwest-branded credit card holders get one free checked bag
• Everyone else pays for their first and second checked bags

The current baggage size and weight limits stay the same. Each checked bag must not be larger than:

• 62 inches in total dimensions (length + width + height)
• 50 pounds in weight per bag

Southwest made other strategic changes too. They added their first redeye flights and plan to give assigned seating instead of their usual open seating policy. They will also launch a new basic economy fare category that offers cheaper tickets with some limits.

Industry experts worry about these changes. Henry Harteveldt from Atmosphere Research Group thinks this might affect customer loyalty and brand choice. United Airlines' CEO Scott Kirby called the policy change "the slaying of a sacred cow".

These changes fit with Southwest's bigger plan to make more money and bring in new customers. They want to create options that work for different types of travelers, from people watching their budget to frequent flyers. This marks a big change from Southwest's long history of customer-friendly policies that set them apart from other major U.S. carriers.

Southwest made these changes at a critical time. They face pressure to improve their finances and adapt to what customers want in post-pandemic travel. The airline hopes to keep customers happy while meeting what shareholders expect for profits.

How Will Southwest Airlines Credit Card Benefits Change?

Southwest Airlines has rolled out the most important changes to its baggage policy that affect Rapid Rewards credit card holders. The airline now targets its credit card program benefits to reward people who travel often and buy premium fares.

New Baggage Credits Structure

Southwest Airlines will give one complimentary checked bag credit to its credit card holders under the new policy. The airline's lineup includes three consumer cards and two business cards, with yearly fees between $69 and $149. These benefits apply to Southwest-branded cards of all types, which delivers the same value no matter which card you pick.

Travelers who want more baggage allowances can take advantage of Southwest's elite status system through their credit cards. You'll find that four out of five Southwest cards give you 1,500 elite qualifying points (TQPs) for every $5,000 you spend. Once you reach A-List Preferred status, which needs 35,000 TQPs yearly, you'll get two free checked bags.

Other credit cards offer different options:

• American Express Platinum comes with a $200 yearly airline fee credit just for checked bags and seat assignments
• Chase Sapphire Reserve gives you a flexible $300 travel statement credit with a $550 yearly fee

Enhanced Rewards for Premium Fares

Southwest has changed its Rapid Rewards program to boost earning potential on premium fares. The new system works like this:

• Business Select fares now earn more points
• Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fares earn fewer points
• Point values change based on high-demand and low-demand flights

The credit card program makes these changes better with faster tier qualification options. Of course, card members earn tier qualifying points twice as fast now, and they've cut the spending requirement for TQP bonuses in half. These changes work for Premier, Premier Business, Priority, and Performance Business credit cards.

Southwest says these updates will stimulate relationships with loyal customers. The new structure helps budget travelers while keeping premium perks for frequent flyers. Their co-branded cards have earned recognition too - the Premier and Priority cards rank among the best airline credit cards in J.D. Power's 2024 U.S. Credit Card Customer satisfaction Study.

The choice to get a Southwest credit card matters more than ever. You'll need to review your travel habits and baggage needs against the yearly fees. On top of that, if you want elite status, the new TQP earning rates through card spending are worth thinking over, though getting status through spending alone is nowhere near easy.

These credit card benefit changes line up with Southwest's bigger plan to create new revenue while keeping customers loyal. The airline expects these updates to bring in $1.0 to $1.5 billion more revenue, but their internal numbers show they might lose $1.8 billion in market share by ending universal free bags.

Southwest Airlines Customer Service Prepares for Transition

Southwest Airlines is rolling out a new baggage policy with major operational changes across its network. The airline's customer service team has started complete updates to help both staff and passengers adapt smoothly.

Airport Staff Training Initiatives

Southwest Airlines has started moving its airport staff around to handle customer needs better under the new baggage rules. EVP Justin Jones and Senior VP of Network Planning Adam Decaire lead the operations team that created targeted training programs. These programs focus on:

• Better baggage handling procedures
• New check-in protocols
• Changed boarding processes
• Ways to communicate with customers

The training programs show Southwest's dedication to great customer service. The airline puts its core values first by delivering excellent hospitality through its dedicated workers.

Digital Check-in System Updates

Southwest has improved its digital setup by a lot to make baggage check-in easier [link_2]. Passengers can now use several self-service options through Southwest's digital platforms:

• Digital bag check-in up to 24 hours before arrival

• Immediate baggage tracking at three points:

  Tag printing confirmation
• Aircraft loading verification
• Unloading status updates

The new system naturally fits with Southwest's mobile app and website. Customers now have more control over their travel experience. They can complete these pre-flight tasks at self-service kiosks:

• Print boarding passes
• Add Rapid Rewards numbers
• Upgrade to Business Select fares
• Change flights (excluding certain reservation types)
• Add lap children to domestic reservations
• Self-tag and check luggage
• Pay excess baggage fees

New Mobile Bag Tag Printers Deployment

Southwest is giving its airport staff mobile printers to optimize operations. This tech upgrade comes with:

• Mobile bag-tag printers for gate agents
• New carry-on size guides at check-in points
• Digital verification systems

The airline has added self-tagging at many more airports. This improvement lets passengers:

• Print bag tags on their own at kiosks
• Drop off tagged bags with Southwest employees
• Spend less time at check-in counters

Southwest's digital platforms now have better tracking features. The mobile app offers:

• Up-to-the-minute baggage status updates
• Automatic notifications at key tracking points
• Easy claim procedures
• Digital receipts for checked bags

Customer service improvements go beyond physical changes. Southwest now has a complete Live Chat system in its mobile app. It runs daily from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Central Time and provides:

• 24/7 automated help through Southwest Bot
• Direct connection to Customer Representatives
• Help with loyalty program questions
• Information about new baggage policies

These improvements are part of Southwest's bigger plan to update its service while keeping customers happy. The airline keeps investing in digital solutions that make travel easier as it adapts to new market needs.

What Does Southwest Checked Baggage Size Limit Include?

Southwest Airlines has updated its baggage policy with exact measurements. The airline follows strict rules for checked bags to make storage and handling easier on all flights.

Weight Restrictions Overview

Every checked bag must follow Southwest's weight limits. Right now, you can pack up to 50 pounds per bag. The airline charges extra fees if your bag weighs more:

• Bags between 51-70 pounds cost $150 extra per bag
• Bags between 71-100 pounds cost $200 extra per bag

Southwest won't accept very heavy items through regular check-in. Any bag over 100 pounds needs to go through Southwest's Air Cargo service to ensure safe handling.

Military members get special treatment under these rules. Active-duty personnel with valid military ID don't have to follow standard weight limits, as long as no single bag weighs more than 100 pounds. This helps military members meet their unique travel needs.

Dimension Guidelines

Southwest measures checked bags carefully. Here are the standard size limits:

• Maximum total dimensions of 62 inches
• Length plus width plus height gives the total measurement
• Wheels and handles count in the final size

Large bags have their own rules:

• Bags between 63-80 inches cost $200 extra
• Bags bigger than 80 inches can't be checked normally
• Big items need special handling

Your bag might be both too big and too heavy. Southwest charges just one $125 fee in this case, instead of charging you twice.

Each passenger can check up to 20 bags per flight. This limit counts both regular bags and those with extra fees.

Sports gear fits into these rules too. Golf bags and skis count as regular checked bags. They still need to meet size limits unless they're on Southwest's special equipment list.

These rules apply to all kinds of bags. The total size includes everything - wheels, handles, and any parts sticking out. This makes sure everyone's bags are measured the same way.

Southwest uses these detailed rules to run smoothly while helping different passenger needs. This system helps with:

• Quick aircraft loading
• Regular bag handling
• Clear rules for passengers
• Fast check-in

These size rules match industry standards but keep Southwest's unique way of doing things. They help the airline give reliable service while adapting to new travel trends and passenger needs.

Southwest Airlines Lost Baggage Policy Remains Strong

Southwest Airlines has strengthened its baggage policies to protect checked items with better tracking and compensation procedures. Passengers can now use digital tools to monitor their luggage throughout their trip.

Tracking System Improvements

Southwest Airlines has added new baggage monitoring features to its digital platforms. Passengers can track their checked bags at three key points through the Southwest mobile app and website:

• When bag tags are printed
• During aircraft loading
• Upon unloading from the aircraft

The live tracking system works naturally through Southwest's digital self-service tools. Passengers can check their baggage status before they reach the airport. Southwest has blended these features into its mobile app, which gives passengers better visibility of their baggage location during travel.

Southwest supports passengers who want to use their own electronic tracking devices. Apple AirTags and similar Bluetooth-enabled devices that use nearby compatible devices are welcome. This two-way tracking gives travelers extra confidence about their checked items.

Southwest's digital capabilities now include:

• Self-service baggage check-in up to 24 hours before departure
• Live status notifications through the mobile app
• Integration with airport baggage handling systems
• Automated alerts at key tracking milestones

Compensation Process Updates

Southwest Airlines follows strict liability guidelines for mishandled baggage. The carrier's liability limit is $3,800 per fare-paying customer for lost, damaged, or delayed baggage. Passengers must report baggage issues in person within four hours of arrival at their destination.

The compensation process includes these key provisions:

• Documentation Requirements:
• Reasonable proof of bag contents
• Original purchase receipts for valuable items
• Evidence of attempts to minimize damages
• Reimbursement Coverage:
• Essential items purchased due to delayed baggage
• Replacement costs for lost items
• Repairs for damaged belongings

Southwest's improved tracking system helps the compensation process by documenting baggage handling at each stage. Claims are processed faster and liability is determined more accurately.

Southwest has added more safeguards through:

• Better staff training on baggage handling procedures
• Updated digital verification systems
• Efficient claim submission processes
• Better communication channels for status updates

Southwest reviews delayed baggage claims based on "reasonable, documented damages" from passengers. Travelers must try to minimize expenses while waiting for delayed bags. This balances customer needs with efficient operations.

Southwest has invested in these improvements:

• Mobile bag-tag printers for gate agents
• Advanced tracking technology integration
• Automated notification systems
• Better staff training programs

These changes match Department of Transportation guidelines, which require airlines to:

• Locate delayed bags through tracking systems
• Maintain communication with affected passengers
• Process claims promptly
• Refund any paid baggage fees for lost items

Southwest's commitment goes beyond simple tracking and compensation. Staff training programs ensure proper handling at every stage. This integrated approach reduces mishandled bags while keeping operations running smoothly across the airline's network.

How Southwest Airlines Flights Will Change?

Southwest Airlines' new baggage policy brings major changes to flight operations. These changes will help maintain good service while adapting to new passenger habits and luggage handling needs.

Gate Processing Times

Southwest Airlines expects longer transaction and queue times at ticket counters and kiosks when passengers start using the new baggage payment system. The airline will tackle these challenges by:

• Moving staff around airport lobbies to handle changing customer needs
• Using mobile printers to make baggage processing easier
• Adding more self-service kiosks to speed up check-in

Operations executives know that processing times might take longer because of the extra payment step, even if fewer people check bags. Southwest has started detailed staff training programs to keep delays minimal.

Boarding Procedure Modifications

Southwest's move away from its old boarding model brings several important changes. More passengers will likely bring carry-on bags, which means the airline must adjust its operations. New changes include:

• New carry-on size guides at gates
• Mobile bag-tag printers for gate agents
• Better checks for carry-on compliance

Right now, 80% of Southwest passengers want assigned seating. The airline plans to give them what they want by early 2026. Passengers will choose from four different fare types that offer various perks and comfort levels.

Carry-on Impact Assessment

Internal studies show more passengers will bring carry-on bags to avoid checked baggage fees. Southwest has created a strong plan to handle this change:

• Gate Infrastructure Updates:
• Gate agents will get mobile bag-tag printers
• New stations to check carry-on sizes
• Better ways to manage overhead bin space
• Operational Adjustments:

New boarding order to handle more carry-on bags

• Simpler verification process
• Extra training to help staff use bin space better

Conclusion

EVP Justin Jones and Senior VP Adam Decaire lead the airline's team and stress the need to keep Southwest's quick boarding process. The airline is also adding premium seats with extra legroom and saying goodbye to open seating.

These changes match Southwest's response to what the market needs and what investors want. The airline must boost its financial results while adapting to how people travel after the pandemic. Southwest wants to balance smooth operations with happy customers to grow in a tough market.

The timing of these changes works well with other plans, like new basic economy fares and better loyalty program benefits. These coordinated updates show how Southwest is updating its service while keeping its reputation for reliable flights.