Southwest Airlines Ends Free Checked Bag Perk for Most Passengers

End of a Signature Perk

• ✈️ Southwest Airlines is ending its long-standing "two bags fly free" perk for most passengers, a change effective May 28.
• 💰 This decision is attributed to investor pressure to boost profits, with Elliot Management reportedly influencing the airline's strategy.

Impact on Passengers

• 😥 Millions of passengers previously chose Southwest specifically for the free bag option, which set it apart from competitors.
• ⚠️ Passengers are expressing unhappiness, viewing this as a broken promise and a significant shift in the airline's culture.
• 🚗 An airline expert suggests this change might lead passengers to reconsider flying Southwest, even from convenient locations like Love Field.

Exceptions and Future Changes

• 💳 Southwest credit card holders and top-tier frequent flyers will still be permitted at least one free checked bag.
• ❓ The airline has not yet disclosed the new fee for checked bags, but competitors like Delta, American, and United typically charge around $35 for the first bag.
• 📉 This move follows other recent changes, including mass layoffs and the end of the airline's open seating policy.