Southwest Airlines dropped a bombshell Tuesday, March 11, 2025—its iconic “Bags Fly Free” era is over. Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines checked baggage fees 2025 will hit most passengers, ending a 54-year perk of two free checked bags. USA news live 2025 is abuzz—travelers are fuming, and X is lighting up with reactions. Is this the end of Southwest’s low-cost charm?
Why Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Fees 2025 Now?
It’s all about cash. Southwest announced the shift at 8:00 AM PDT today, citing profitability woes and pressure from activist investor Elliott Management. Southwest Airlines checked baggage fees 2025 will kick in for flights booked on or after May 28—exact costs TBD, but think $35-$40 per bag, like Delta or American. Loyalists dodge the hit—A-List Preferred and Business Select keep two free bags; A-List gets one. X users groan—one posted, “RIP Southwest’s soul!”
Key updates
- Start Date: May 28, 2025.
- Why: $1.7B revenue boost by 2026.
- Exceptions: Loyalty tiers still get freebies.
How’s This Hitting the USA?
Flyers feel betrayed. Southwest’s “two bags free” was a standout—competitors raked in $5.5B in bag fees in 2024, per BTS data, while Southwest stayed firm. Now, USA news live 2025 sees a loyalty crisis—X posts like “Why fly Southwest now?” trend hard. Assigned seating’s also coming in 2026, piling on the overhaul. Travelers brace for costlier trips; some eye rivals like Delta.
What’s Next for Southwest?
No turning back. CEO Bob Jordan calls it “building a stronger Southwest,” but backlash is fierce. Southwest Airlines checked baggage fees 2025 could spark a passenger exodus—or pad profits if loyalty holds. X speculates—one user asked, “Next: $10 for peanuts?” USA news live 2025 tracks live—will flyers adapt or abandon?
Bags free or fees sting? Share below!
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