Empire State Review Team 
Southwest Airlines has officially ended its beloved “two bags fly free” policy, implementing a checked baggage fee starting on May 28, 2025. The move marks a significant shift for the airline, which has long been known for offering free checked luggage as part of its customer-friendly approach. With this change, Southwest is aligning itself with other major carriers in the airline industry that have introduced similar fees, marking the end of an era for travelers who have come to appreciate Southwest’s distinctive no-fee baggage policy.
Under the new policy, passengers will now be required to pay for checked bags, a departure from the airline’s long-standing reputation of offering two free checked bags on every flight. The move comes as Southwest seeks to adjust to the evolving dynamics of the airline industry, where many competitors have been charging for checked luggage for years. Industry experts suggest that this policy change could be a response to increasing operational costs, which many airlines have been facing in recent years, particularly as inflation, fuel prices, and labor costs continue to rise.
Southwest’s decision to introduce checked baggage fees will undoubtedly affect travelers’ budgets, particularly those who were accustomed to the airline’s free baggage allowance. For many passengers, the ability to check two bags without additional charges was one of the key selling points of flying with Southwest, especially for families or individuals traveling with larger luggage. With this new fee in place, travelers will need to factor in the additional cost when booking flights, potentially shifting the overall cost of flying with Southwest compared to its competitors.
The new fee structure, however, is likely to have an impact on how consumers make their travel decisions. While Southwest has traditionally been seen as one of the more affordable and flexible airlines, the addition of baggage fees brings it more in line with other major U.S. airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, all of which already charge for checked baggage. These airlines began introducing checked baggage fees over a decade ago, in response to the increasing costs of air travel and the need for airlines to generate additional revenue streams. Southwest’s move may therefore signal a shift in the broader airline industry, as carriers adapt to market trends and rising costs.
For consumers, this change may prompt a reevaluation of the overall value proposition that Southwest offers. While the airline’s fares have traditionally been more affordable compared to some competitors, the introduction of baggage fees could change that equation. Travelers who are accustomed to flying with Southwest’s no-fee checked luggage may now look for ways to minimize the additional charges, such as adjusting their packing strategies or opting for lighter carry-on bags. Additionally, passengers will need to be more mindful of weight restrictions and the cost of additional checked bags, which could add up quickly for those traveling with large amounts of luggage.
Despite the shift in its baggage policy, Southwest Airlines has promised to maintain its reputation for providing customer-friendly services, including free flight changes, no change fees, and a generous refund policy. These perks continue to set Southwest apart from some of its competitors, who charge hefty fees for flight changes and cancellations. Nonetheless, this policy change marks the end of a chapter for the airline and raises questions about how the broader industry will continue to evolve in the face of rising operational costs and shifting consumer expectations.
The introduction of baggage fees could also have a significant impact on competition within the airline industry. Southwest’s decision to implement these fees may encourage other low-cost carriers to reevaluate their own baggage policies, potentially leading to more widespread changes in the industry. Travelers may begin to weigh the total cost of a flight more carefully, considering not only the base fare but also the cost of checked luggage, seat selection, and other add-on fees that can significantly increase the price of air travel.
For frequent travelers who are concerned about the additional costs, many airlines, including Southwest, offer credit card partnerships and loyalty programs that allow passengers to earn free checked luggage as part of their rewards. These programs are likely to become even more attractive to travelers looking to offset the cost of baggage fees.
In conclusion, Southwest Airlines’ move to introduce checked baggage fees represents a significant shift in the airline industry, which could have wide-reaching implications for consumer behavior, competition, and the broader landscape of air travel. With this change, passengers will need to reassess their travel budgets and consider the full cost of flying, including luggage fees, when making booking decisions.
