It is the end of (free) era: Southwest Airlines will start charging for checked bags at the end of May.
In the middle of the sinking profits, the budget airline in A. press release Tuesday that it is completing its long -standing policy to allow travelers to check two bags for free, limiting Perk to its elite members starting May 28. The carrier also announced that it is introducing the basic price of the economy, which does not include many of Perks Southwest clients so far:
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Customers who buy basic prices on or after May 28 will not be able to choose their place or ask for an extra foot room. The carrier announced last year that it would end Open -sitting policy and Instead, offer premium seating options with multiple foot rooms.
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Customers now earn less points for fast rewards for cheaper they want to get out and want to get out plus prices.
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Flight loans issued for basic tickets for tickets purchased on or after May 28 will expire after six months. Loans for the flight for more expensive prices will expire after a year.
However, you can now buy tickets for Expedia southwest, which began offering prices for the airline last month.
While the passengers had mixed opinions on the designated seating, checked bag charges are likely to be filled with frustration through the board, as the flyers are screaming for cheaper tickets for airline.
Why does the southwest change its policy?
In a word: profitability.
The airline's profit fell by 46% in early 2024, although it advocated Record income by the end of the year. According to Southwest CEO Bob Jordandan, the airline is implementing its new policy because it continues to renew it.
“We have a huge opportunity to satisfy the current and future needs of customers, to attract new segments of customers we do not compete today and return to the level of profitability we and our shareholders expect,” Jordandan said in a press release on Tuesday.
Charging for checked bags offers an additional inflow of revenue for the airline. Followed by a Playbook of larger airlines, which usually offer cheaper tickets to clients who want to give up any tip or amenities.
What can you do to avoid checked bags for bags?
If you don't want to pay to check the bag the next time you fly, you still have some options.
Southwest Rapid Awards A-list with preferred members and customers reserving business outlets can still check two bags for free. Members of the A-list and other “selected” clients will enjoy a free checked bag. Members of Rapids Reads credit cards will receive credit for a statement for a checked bag.
If you are not loyal to the southwest, another Airline's credit cards It can also reward card owners with perks as free checked bags. The Delta Skymiles Gold American Express cardFor example, it offers card owners their first checked bag for free on delta flights.
Conditions refer to the benefits and offers of American Express. Enrollment may be required for selected benefits and offers of American Express. Visit Americanexpress.com to find out more.
And if everything else fails, consider packing easier Set your road wardrobe to wear.
“Use compression cubes and vacuum bags to save space,” said Marianne Mendoza of The adventures of the vibe travel agency. “Choose a suitcase with compression strips and expansion compartments to help you fit more into your wear.”