Southwest Airlines ends era of free checked bags as profit pressures mount

Southwest Airlines is ending its long-standing policy of free checked bags and introducing a new basic fare on Wednesday as the carrier aims to attract new customers and boost profitability. Most passengers will be charged $35 for their first checked bag and$45 for their second checked bag for flights booked and or changed on or after Wednesday, marking a major shift in its customer-friendly pricing model.Still, Southwest, considered a "no-frills" carrier, said Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and cu ...