### Southwest Airlines Discontinues Free Checked Baggage for Most Travelers

Southwest Airlines, previously celebrated for its generous baggage policies, is implementing a significant shift.

On Tuesday, March 11, the airline revealed that only **Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members** and **Business Select fare customers** will retain the privilege of two complimentary checked bags. **A-List Members and a few select travelers** will be entitled to one free checked bag, while all other fliers will now incur charges for checked luggage. This revised policy will take effect for flights booked on or after **May 28**.

In a press statement, **Bob Jordan**, Southwest’s president, CEO, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, clarified the rationale behind this adjustment.

> “We have a tremendous opportunity to meet the current and future needs of customers, attract new customer segments that we don’t compete for currently, and return to the profitability levels expected by both us and our shareholders,” Jordan commented. “We will achieve all this while continuing to focus on what has made us strong — our people and the genuine, friendly, award-winning customer service that only they can provide.”

### Customer Feedback: “What’s Left to Appreciate?”

Nonetheless, numerous Southwest patrons took to social media to voice their discontent. For years, the airline distinguished itself from rivals by providing free checked baggage, a benefit that many fliers considered a significant reason to opt for Southwest over other airlines.

Several users also noted that this alteration comes on the heels of Southwest’s decision to do away with its open seating policy, which previously permitted passengers to choose their seats freely. Many are now drawing parallels between Southwest and **Spirit Airlines**, albeit without Spirit’s self-aware branding.

In light of these recent changes, customers are left pondering what still differentiates Southwest. If the airline has removed free baggage and open seating, what makes it stand out from its competitors?

As social media responses continue to flood in, it is evident that Southwest’s new approach is not well-received by many of its dedicated passengers.