Particle.news
Download on the App Store
6 ARTICLES
·
yesterday

Southwest Airlines Will Charge for Checked Bags Starting May 28

Investor pressure drove the introduction of baggage fees to fund assigned seating next year with revamped fare bundles.

Image
Image
Image
Southwest Airlines

Overview

  • Passengers flying on basic fares will pay $35 for their first checked bag and $45 for the second.
  • Travelers who book before May 28 will still receive two free checked bags under the legacy policy.
  • Business Select (soon to be renamed Choice Extra) and Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members will continue to get two free bags, while A-List members and Southwest credit-card holders receive one.
  • The carrier projects the new bag fees could generate up to $1.5 billion in additional annual revenue.
  • Assigned seating is set to launch in early 2026 alongside new premium seats and bundled fare options.