As the news of cabin baggage charges for passengers flooded social media app X, reactions were mixed. One passenger said, ‘Terrible business decision by Southwest Airlines to start charging for checked bags. It was one of the only things that differentiated them from other airlines.‘ Another person posted, ‘Once again, private equity ruins something good.'”
Reasons Behind the Backlash
Southwest Airlines Announces Changes to Baggage Policy, Effective May 28, 2025
Free Checked Bags:
- Two free bags for Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and customers traveling on Business Select fares.
- One free bag for A-List Members and other select customers.
- One free bag for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers.
Baggage Charges for Passengers
- Customers who do not qualify for free bags will be charged for their first and second checked bags (weight and size limitations apply
Last week, Southwest Airlines also laid off 15% of its staff due to cost-cutting measures.
The stock market reacted positively to this news. At the time of writing this article, Southwest Airlines’ shares were trading at $30.60, marking an 8.60% increase from the previous day
