Southwest Airlines is making significant changes to its fare structure and customer benefits, including the introduction of baggage fees, a basic economy fare, and the end of its open-seating policy.
Southwest Airlines , known for its customer-friendly policies like free checked bags and open seating , is making significant changes to its fare structure and benefits. The airline announced new baggage fees for tickets purchased on or after May 28, marking a departure from its long-standing 'two bags fly free' policy. Customers purchasing any ticket except the top-tier Business Select fare will now have to pay to check bags.
Business Select passengers can check two bags for free, as can A-List Preferred members and those with a Southwest credit card. A-List members will get one free checked bag. The cost of checking a bag hasn't been disclosed but is expected to start at $35, aligning with competitor pricing. Southwest acknowledges that the new fees will likely lead to more passengers carrying on luggage, so it's taking steps to mitigate potential congestion. Gate agents will be equipped with mobile bag-tag printers, and new carry-on size guides will be implemented to help customers determine if their luggage meets the requirements. The airline also plans to adjust staff allocation in airport lobbies to handle the increased volume of carry-on bags and transactions.In addition to baggage fees, Southwest is introducing a basic economy fare that offers no refunds or changes, and excludes same-day standby options. Flight credits for these basic tickets will expire in six months, compared to 12 months for other tickets. Previously, Southwest credits didn't have an expiration date. The airline is also moving towards assigned seating, ending its decades-old open-seating policy. Southwest executives believe these changes will encourage sign-ups for the airline's co-branded credit card and generate additional revenue. The airline's frequent flyer program will also be adjusted, with Rapid Rewards miles awarded based on ticket price, and redemption rates varying based on flight demand
Southwest Airlines Baggage Fees Basic Economy Open Seating Rapid Rewards Customer Benefits
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Southwest Airlines Checked Baggage Fees Start Date, Potential PricingScott Stump is a trending reporter and the writer of the daily newsletter This is TODAY (which you should subscribe to here!) that brings the day's news, health tips, parenting stories, recipes and uplifting stories right to your inbox. He has been a regular contributor for TODAY.
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