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Southwest Announces Major Policy and Benefit Changes
Today, Southwest Airlines unveiled upcoming adjustments to select policies and benefits within their fare bundles, set to take effect in May 2025. These changes aim to refine the customer experience and align with evolving travel trends, and will impact various aspects of ticket flexibility and reward accrual.
Related – Southwest Airlines is Getting Even Better with New Seating Options and More
An email was sent out to Southwest customers announcing the changes.
“Updates to Checked Baggage Policy
We will offer two free checked bags to Rapid Rewards® A-List Preferred Members and Customers traveling on Business Select fares. We will also offer one free checked bag to A-List Members and other select Customers. In addition, Southwest will credit one checked bag for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers. All remaining Customers will pay to check their first and second bags, and we will continue to charge for the third and fourth checked bags. Changes will apply to flights booked on or after May 28.
Updates to Our Fare Bundles
We’re updating the benefits of our fares bundles in phases. Whether you’re looking for a lower price with fewer perks, or more benefits for added flexibility, you’ll have the choice to pick what works best for your trip.
Phase 1: Beginning this month, we increased our Rapid Rewards earn ratio on our Business Select fares and lowered the earn ratio on our Wanna Get Away® and Wanna Get Away Plus™ fares. We will also begin to vary our redemption rates across our fare products on some high- and low-demand travel periods.
Phase 2: Beginning May 28, we will introduce a new Basic fare. This new Basic fare will be our lowest price point and will have less flexibility than other fares. Additionally, we will be adding expiration dates to our Flight Credits, which will vary based on which fare you choose to purchase.”
”We recognize these changes may be a disappointment to some, but know we’re committed to building a Southwest that will continue to offer you low fares, convenient flights to destinations you want, and a travel experience that is rewarding. You can count on the Heart of Southwest, our People, to guide you through the changes and welcome you on your next journey with their friendly, award-winning Customer Service.”
The email was signed by Southwest president, CEO, & Vice Chairman of the Board, Bob Jordan.
These updates build upon Southwest’s ongoing efforts to enhance the customer experience, which include the upcoming rollout of assigned seating and extra legroom options. Additionally, Southwest recently initiated its first industry-standard airline partnership with Icelandair on February 13th, coinciding with the launch of its inaugural overnight redeye flights. Demonstrating a commitment to operational excellence, Southwest currently leads the industry in on-time performance for 2025 and has achieved a remarkable 98.3 percent completion rate for its published flight schedule, marking a significant year-over-year improvement.
What do you think about the changes Southwest is making?
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