Southwest Airlines, long known for its customer-friendly policies, has sparked major backlash after announcing that it will end its “two bags fly free” policy and begin charging for checked baggage. The move, revealed on Tuesday, March 12, 2025, marks a significant departure from one of the last remaining perks that set Southwest apart from competitors.

Southwest Faces Customer Outrage

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulate airline policies, including baggage fees, and have previously scrutinized similar changes at other airlines. However, Southwest’s decision has infuriated loyal customers, many of whom chose the airline specifically for its free baggage allowance.

Frequent flyers were quick to react, with one A-List Preferred customer holding over one million rewards points expressing their frustration:

Southwest’s Response and the Public Reaction

Following the backlash, Southwest attempted damage control with a lighthearted Instagram post, but instead of easing tensions, it fueled further criticism. Many questioned why the airline was making itself indistinguishable from competitors like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, all of which charge for checked baggage.

The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reports that baggage fees have become a major revenue source for airlines, with U.S. carriers collecting over $6.8 billion from baggage fees in 2023. Southwest had long marketed itself as a customer-first airline, but this shift signals a new focus on revenue over passenger satisfaction.

Amtrak Gets Dragged Into the Debate

While frustration over Southwest’s baggage fee policy was the main focus, Amtrak also found itself caught in the crossfire. Many travelers compared the cost of train tickets to airfare, pointing out that in some cases, Amtrak fares are more expensive than flying—despite longer travel times.

This isn’t a new issue—according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), Amtrak struggles with high operating costs and fare competitiveness, making it a less attractive alternative to air travel despite its environmental benefits.

What This Means for Travelers

With Southwest eliminating free checked bags and Amtrak facing criticism over pricing and travel times, travelers are left with fewer budget-friendly options. This shift underscores a larger trend in the transportation industry where passenger perks are being reduced in favor of revenue-driven policies.

The DOT and consumer advocacy groups will likely monitor public reaction to Southwest’s baggage policy change, as similar moves at other airlines have resulted in calls for regulation and greater transparency in airline pricing.

For now, travelers looking to avoid baggage fees will need to consider alternative packing strategies, loyalty programs, or budget airlines that still offer some free baggage perks—though those options are dwindling fast.

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