Southwest Airlines, long known for its generous free baggage policy, is making major changes to its fare structure, loyalty program, and baggage rules. As part of a broader strategy to increase revenue and cater to different types of travelers, the airline is introducing a new Basic fare, modifying Rapid Rewards earnings, and adjusting checked baggage allowances for select customers.
These updates, set to take effect on May 28, 2025, signal a shift in Southwest’s business model while maintaining key features that have made it one of the most popular domestic airlines in the U.S.
What’s Changing with Southwest’s Baggage Policy?
For years, Southwest Airlines has been the only major U.S. airline to offer two free checked bags for all passengers. However, with the new policy:
- Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Business Select® passengers will continue to receive two free checked bags.
- A-List Members and select customers will now be entitled to one free checked bag instead of two.
- Rapid Rewards Credit Card members will receive one free checked bag as a loyalty perk.
- All other passengers will now be charged for checked bags, bringing Southwest more in line with other airlines.
These new baggage fees will apply to flights booked on or after May 28, 2025, though exact pricing details have yet to be disclosed.
Southwest Introduces Basic Fare and Assigned Seating
Another major shift coming to Southwest is the introduction of a Basic fare—a budget-friendly option aimed at price-sensitive travelers. Basic fare passengers will have fewer benefits, such as earning fewer Rapid Rewards points and facing more restrictions.
Additionally, Southwest has confirmed plans to introduce assigned seating and extra legroom options in the near future. This move departs from the airline’s traditional open seating model, potentially giving passengers more control over their in-flight experience.
Changes to Rapid Rewards: Who Benefits?
The airline has also updated its Rapid Rewards program, altering the way passengers earn and redeem points:
- Business Select fares now earn more Rapid Rewards points, making them more attractive to frequent business travelers.
- Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fares will earn fewer points, reducing the benefits for budget travelers.
- Variable redemption rates will be introduced, meaning reward flights will cost more points during peak travel times and fewer points during off-peak periods.
These adjustments are designed to reward Southwest’s most frequent and high-spending customers while allowing the airline to better manage loyalty program costs.
What Else is Southwest Changing?
Beyond baggage fees and fare structures, Southwest Airlines is making additional strategic moves to increase profitability and expand its customer base:
- New distribution partnerships: Southwest flights can now be booked on Expedia, making it easier for travelers to compare fares.
- Flight credit expirations: Flight credits issued for tickets purchased on or after May 28, 2025, will expire within one year, with Basic fares expiring in six months.
- International airline partnership: Southwest has recently launched an industry-standard codeshare agreement with Icelandair, allowing passengers to connect seamlessly between Southwest and Icelandair flights.
What This Means for Travelers
While Southwest remains committed to its friendly customer service and strong domestic network, these changes mark a significant shift in the airline’s strategy. The introduction of checked baggage fees for some customers, alongside fare and loyalty program adjustments, aligns Southwest more closely with its competitors.
For travelers, the key takeaway is that Southwest’s once-universal two-bag policy is no longer guaranteed. Passengers should check their fare class, credit card benefits, and Rapid Rewards status to determine whether they still qualify for free checked bags or will need to budget for added fees.
With assigned seating, Basic fares, and new loyalty rules on the horizon, 2025 will bring one of the most transformative years in Southwest Airlines’ history.
