Southwest Airlines Ends Free Checked Bags: Will It Backfire?

Southwest Airlines Ends 'Bags Fly Free' Policy, Sparking Concerns Southwest Airlines' decision to introduce checked bag fees, effective Wednesday, marks a significant shift for the airline known for its generous baggage allowance. This change, which will cost $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second, has sparked concerns about its potential impact on customer loyalty and the airline's overall competitiveness. "I don't think I'll be flying Southwest after this. That's the reason we flew Southwest," said one passenger interviewed at the airport, highlighting the potential loss of customers who chose Southwest specifically for its free baggage policy. While Southwest CEO Bob Jordan has previously praised the airline's free baggage policy, the introduction of fees suggests a strategic shift toward a more revenue-focused model. One airline industry analyst, Henry Harteveld, expressed concerns, stating, "I think this is going to backfire." He believes a "meaningful portion" of customers may switch to other carriers offering better schedules, on-time performance, or pricing. However, Southwest maintains that A-List members and credit card holders will still receive one free checked bag, and the free baggage policy will remain for existing bookings. The airline anticipates that the check-in process will take longer due to the new fees. The changes extend beyond baggage fees. Southwest plans to introduce new fare bundles and replace its open boarding system with assigned seating next year, offering extra legroom and preferred seats at an added cost. These changes represent a significant transformation for the budget airline, and their long-term success remains to be seen.