Southwest Airlines Changes: No Free Checked Bags and More Bad News
Southwest Airlines is making significant policy changes that will impact passengers starting May 28, 2025, with some changes taking effect immediately. These adjustments include points devaluation, flight credit expirations, baggage fees, and a shift to assigned seating. Here’s what you need to know about the latest Southwest Airlines news.
New Baggage Fees
End of Two Free Checked Bags
Southwest has offered a policy of two (2) free checked bags for its entire 54-year history, but now it’s ending. Only A-List Preferred members and Business Select tickets will continue to receive this benefit. A-list members will receive one (1) free checked bag. It’s yet to be seen if a free checked bag will be offered with any of the Southwest credit cards, which is a standard on competitor airline cards.
Costs for Southwest Checked Baggage
The exact pricing for checked bags has yet to be announced, but Southwest policy changes are expected to be in line with industry standards.
Points Devaluation and Expiring Flight Credits
Reduced Point Earning for Economy Fares
Southwest Airlines points (Rapid Rewards program) are being devalued by reducing points earned on “Wanna Get Away” and “Wanna Get Away Plus” fares while increasing points for Business Select fares, which could push customers to fly with another airline. The airline is also introducing dynamic pricing for award flights, meaning point values will fluctuate based on demand, potentially diminishing the value of frequent flyer rewards.
Flight Cancellation Credits Now Expire
Flight credits from cancellations or itinerary changes will expire within 12 months, a departure from the current no expiration policy. This change means travelers will need to plan carefully to avoid losing their funds.
Assigned Seating and New Fare Structure
The End of Open Seating
By early 2026, Southwest will replace its open seating policy with assigned seating, marking a major departure from its decades-old boarding system, which allows customers to choose their seat. Surveys indicate many customers now prefer knowing their seat assignments before arriving at the airport, so this change may be welcomed by some.
How Assigned Seating Will Work
The airline has laid out a seating plan that includes extra legroom seats, preferred seats, and standard seats. Premium seating options (all but standard seats) will be available for an additional cost. Boarding will now be similar to other airlines, with elite status members, premium seat tickets, and credit card holders receiving priority boarding. They’ve also stated that Rapid Rewards Credit Cards will get various new seating upgrade benefits.
Introduction of Basic Economy Fares
Southwest is adding a Basic Economy fare option, mirroring offerings from airlines like Frontier and Spirit. This fare will provide a seat at a lower price but come with added restrictions. The airline hopes this move will help it compete in the ultra-low-cost segment.
Southwest Airlines Changes: The Bottom Line
Southwest’s sweeping policy changes aim to improve profitability but have already alienated loyal customers. As these new policies take effect, passengers will need to rethink their options for booking airfare with another airline. With these major changes, Southwest has lost its value proposition and differentiation among airlines.
Read more articles related to the Southwest Airlines changes:
- Southwest Airlines Threw Away It’s Biggest Selling Point – View from the Wing
- Southwest Ditches Choose-Your-Own Seating – Nerd Wallet
- A Reimagined Customer Experience is Taking Off – Southwest Airlines
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