Southwest Airlines announced the end of its ‘bags free policy’ on March 11, 2025. The change will take effect on May 28, 2025, after which most passengers will have to pay a fee for checked-in bags.Under this new policy, only business class passengers, high-end loyalty program members and airline credit card holders will get free check-in bags. All other passengers will have to pay a fee for their check-in bags, though the exact amount of the fee has not been announced yet.

The decision is aimed at improving the profitability of the airline as the company is under financial pressure due to rising costs and stagnant revenue growth.

Passengers will now have to pay to check their bags

America’s well-known airline, Southwest Airlines, has decided to end its ‘bags free policy’. Now passengers will have to pay a fee for their check-in bags.

When will the new policy be implemented?

This change will come into effect from May 28. That is, after this date, if you are traveling by Southwest Airlines, you will have to pay separately for your bag.

Why was this decision taken?

The airline’s CEO said that this is being done for financial reasons. The company wants people to use their credit cards more, which will give them more profit.

How much fee will have to be paid?

While the exact fee hasn’t been announced yet, it is estimated to be between $20 and $25, as is common with other airlines.

Impact on passengers

This policy of Southwest Airlines will make it similar to other airlines, whereas the ‘bags free‘ facility was its special identity. Now the question is, will this affect the loyalty of passengers? Will people now start comparing tickets with other airlines?

Opinion of employees

Surprisingly, the company says its employees were also in favor of the change. Southwest Airlines used to handle twice as much baggage as other airlines, putting a greater strain on employees.

Bag check-in fees on other airlines in the US

Most airlines in the US charge fees for checked-in bags. Here’s information on the major airlines and their checked-in bag fees:

Important Notes:

American Airlines: If you pay during online check-in, the first bag fee will be $35.

Southwest Airlines: Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines is ending its ‘two bags free’ policy. The exact amount of the new fee has not yet been announced, but it is expected to be similar to other airlines.

Do Indian airlines also charge bag check-in fees?

Most domestic airlines in India allow passengers to carry up to 15 kg of check-in baggage for free. If passengers want to carry more than this limit, they have to pay an additional fee.

Air India: Earlier Air India used to provide up to 20 kg of free check-in baggage to passengers on domestic flights, but this limit has been reduced to 15 kg from May 2, 2024. This change has been made under the menu-based pricing model.

Other Airlines: Other major Indian airlines like IndiGo, Vistara and SpiceJet also offer free check-in baggage up to 15 kg to passengers. Additional charges apply for weight beyond this limit.

DGCA instructions: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has allowed airlines to offer discounts on ticket prices to passengers who travel without check-in baggage or only with cabin baggage. This is aimed at encouraging passengers to travel with light luggage.

conclusion

Indian airlines allow up to 15 kg of check-in baggage free of cost. Any excess weight is charged extra, which may vary according to the airline’s policy and the excess weight. It is advisable to check the baggage policy of the respective airline before booking the ticket.