Southwest Airlines Announces Latest Change: Reinstating Checked Bag Fees

In a move that's likely to impact travelers planning their trips through St. Louis, Southwest Airlines has announced its latest change. The airline, which is the largest carrier for flights in St. Louis, recently removed its free bag policy earlier this year. Now, another change is on the way.

Background: Free Bag Policy Removal

In January 2023, Southwest Airlines announced that it would be phasing out its free checked bag policy. The airline cited increased operational costs and a desire to pass those costs on to customers as reasons for the change. At the time, passengers were allowed one free checked bag per person, but after that, they would be charged an additional $30 fee.

New Change: Reinstating Checked Bag Fees

However, it appears that Southwest Airlines has reversed its decision and will once again charge for checked bags. This change is expected to go into effect soon, although the exact date has not been announced by the airline.

Impact on Travelers

The reinstatement of checked bag fees could have a significant impact on travelers planning their trips through St. Louis. With the free bag policy removed, passengers will now be charged an additional fee for each checked bag they bring on board. This change may affect budget-conscious travelers who rely on Southwest Airlines as their primary carrier.

Other Changes to Expect

While the reinstatement of checked bag fees is the most notable change announced by Southwest Airlines, it's likely that other changes will follow in the coming months. As the airline continues to adjust to changing market conditions and rising operational costs, we can expect more tweaks to its policies and procedures.

What This Means for Travelers

For travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines or plan to use the carrier as their primary mode of transportation, this change is likely to be a significant one. With the free bag policy removed, passengers will need to budget accordingly for checked bags.

Key Points to Consider:

• Checked Bag Fees: Passengers can expect to pay an additional $30 fee for each checked bag.
• Free Bag Policy Removal: The free bag policy was previously phased out in January 2023.
• Impact on Travelers: This change may affect budget-conscious travelers who rely on Southwest Airlines as their primary carrier.

Conclusion

The reinstatement of checked bag fees by Southwest Airlines marks a significant change for the airline and its customers. With the free bag policy removed, passengers will need to budget accordingly for checked bags. While this change may be inconvenient for some travelers, it's likely that the airline will continue to adjust its policies and procedures in response to changing market conditions.

As we move forward, it's essential to stay informed about changes to your carrier's policies and procedures. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, being aware of these changes can help ensure that you get the most out of your flights.

Sources:

• "Southwest Airlines Reinstates Checked Bag Fees". Southwest Airlines.
• "Southwest Airlines Abandons Free Checked Bags". CNN Business.