Southwest Airlines(LUV) New York Post·2025-03-13 14:34Core Insights - Southwest Airlines will end its long-standing policy of free checked bags starting in May, allowing only select customers to check two bags for free [1][2][3] - United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby believes this change will significantly impact Southwest and make other airlines more competitive, particularly affecting low-end customers [4][6] - Delta Airlines President Glen Hauenstein noted that customers who previously chose Southwest for its free checked bag policy are now potential customers for other airlines [9][11] Summary by Sections Southwest Airlines Policy Change - Southwest Airlines announced the termination of its free checked bag policy, which previously allowed all travelers to check two bags for free [1][2] - Starting in May, only Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members, Business Select passengers, and select customers will retain the option for free checked bags [1][2] Industry Reactions - United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby stated that the policy change would be beneficial for competitors and could lead to a shift of low-end customers to other airlines [4][6] - Kirby emphasized that the change reflects a more financially driven approach by Southwest, marking a significant shift in its business model [5][6] - Delta's Glen Hauenstein expressed that the loss of the free checked bag policy opens opportunities for other airlines to attract Southwest's former customers [9][11] Future Developments - Southwest Airlines plans to introduce assigned seating and premium seating options, with implementation expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026 [10][11] - The airline's new Basic fare for lowest priced tickets will also take effect for tickets purchased on or after May 28 [10]