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Southwest Airlines ends free two-bag perk on May 28

Pressure from activist Elliott Investment Management prompted Southwest to adopt fees that mirror other carriers’ baggage charges.

Overview

  • Starting May 28, new Southwest bookings will incur a $35 fee for the first checked bag and $45 for the second.
  • Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members, Business Select fare holders and Southwest credit-card customers will continue to receive free checked bags under the updated policy.
  • The airline is introducing a Basic fare tier that offers no changes, last boarding group assignment and six-month fare credit expiration, replacing its Wanna Get Away option.
  • Effective the same date, passengers must keep portable chargers in plain sight during use to address lithium-ion battery fire risks.
  • The baggage fees and fare restructuring are part of a broader overhaul that includes planned assigned seating in 2026 and aims to boost revenue.