The Dallas-based airline announced that starting on May 28, most passengers will have to begin paying to check their bags.
DALLAS, Texas — For years, Southwest Airlines has been known for its “two bags fly free” policy, a major draw for millions of travelers. But soon, that perk will be a thing of the past.
On Tuesday, the Dallas-based airline announced it is ending its two-free-checked-bags policy for most passengers as it faces pressure from investors to increase profits.
The company said Frequent Flyers with top-tier status and Southwest credit card holders will still get at least one free checked bag, but for the average traveler, this change could mean extra costs.
“Shopping around will now be a priority, cause you know, it’s all about saving the bottom dollar,“ said Mandi Butler, a traveler at Dallas Love Field Airport.
The baggage fee decision is just one of several recent changes for the airline. Last month, Southwest announced its first-ever mass layoffs, along with an end of its open-seating policy.
Industry expert Steve Cosgrove believes the changes could impact passenger loyalty, especially for those flying through Dallas Love Field, Southwest’s home base.
“People would drive to Love Field even if DFW was better or more convenient because they had the free bag option,” said Cosgrove. “They don’t have that now.”
The airline giant has not yet said how much checking bags will cost. Competitors like Delta, American Airlines, and United typically charge around $35 for the first checked bag.
While the exact fee remains unclear, one thing is certain, starting May 28, Southwest’s travel experience will look very different.
For many loyal passengers, it’s a shift that feels like a broken promise.
