Southwest Airlines Announces New Policy Changes for May 28

In preparation for the summer travel season, Southwest Airlines has announced several new policy changes that will take effect on May 28. The changes aim to enhance the customer experience while also making some adjustments to improve operational efficiency.

Changes Affecting In-Flight Services

One of the primary changes is the introduction of a mandatory digital baggage fee for checked bags weighing between 40 and 50 pounds. This means that customers will need to pay an additional fee, which will be added to their ticket price, for any bag exceeding this weight limit.

Example:

• A one-way economy ticket from New York (JFK) to Dallas (DAL) with a checked bag weighing 45 pounds:
  • Economy ticket: $179
  • Baggage fee (40-50 pounds): $30

Changes to Boarding and Seating

Southwest Airlines will also be introducing changes to its boarding process. The airline plans to begin boarding groups 12 hours prior to departure, instead of the current 36-hour advance window.

Additionally, customers who book a seat in an exit row or under a bulkhead will no longer be eligible for complimentary upgrades. This change aims to ensure that seats in these areas are reserved for passengers with mobility needs.

Example:

• A customer booking a seat in an exit row:
  • Original price: $120
  • Exit row seat fee: $30 (additional)
• Customer who books a non-exit row seat and is upgraded to a bulkhead seat due to available upgrades:
  • Original ticket price: $100
  • Bulkhead upgrade fee: $50

Changes to Refunds and Cancellations

Southwest Airlines will also begin enforcing stricter refund policies for canceled flights. Passengers who cancel their tickets more than 10 days prior to departure may receive a partial refund, but only up to 50% of the original ticket price.

For cancellations made within 10 days of departure, passengers will receive no refunds or travel credits.

Example:

• Customer cancels ticket 15 days prior to departure:
  • Refund: 50% of $250 = $125
• Customer cancels ticket 5 days prior to departure:
  • No refund or travel credit

Other Changes

Southwest Airlines will also introduce new changes to its loyalty program, Rapid Rewards. The airline plans to increase the number of award seats available for redemption, making it easier for customers to book flights using their points.

Additionally, passengers who redeem awards on multiple flights within a single booking period will no longer be eligible for discounts.

Example:

• Customer redeems 10,000 Rapid Rewards points for two one-way economy tickets:
  • Original price: $400
  • Points redemption value: 1.25 cents per point (based on the current award chart)
• Customer redeems 20,000 Rapid Rewards points for three one-way economy tickets:
  • Original price: $600
  • Points redemption value: 0.75 cents per point

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines has announced several new policy changes that will take effect on May 28. These changes aim to enhance the customer experience while also improving operational efficiency. Passengers should review these changes carefully and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Recommendations for Travelers

• Check your ticket and baggage fees prior to departure.
• Book seats in non-exit rows and avoid bulkhead areas if you don't require them.
• Consider booking flights more than 10 days prior to departure for better refund options.
• Review the Rapid Rewards award chart carefully before redeeming points.
• Plan ahead and allow extra time for check-in, baggage drop-off, and security screening.