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Southwest Announces Negative Changes to Baggage Policy, Fares, Awards And More

Mar 12, 2025

In this discussion, Julian Kheel, the founder and CEO of Points Path, shares insights on the drastic changes at Southwest Airlines. He reveals how the beloved 'bags fly free' promise is now in jeopardy, affecting many travelers. The conversation dives into the new fare structures and the expiration of flight credits. Julian also touches on the implications of these shifts for leisure travelers and examines how Southwest’s evolving policies stack up against legacy carriers. It's an eye-opening look at air travel's shifting landscape!

32:47

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Episode guests

Julian Kheel

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Southwest Airlines has abandoned its 'bags fly free' policy, requiring most customers to pay for checked baggage, a significant shift from its tradition.

The introduction of a new Basic Fare Class aims to attract price-sensitive travelers but risks alienating loyal customers who enjoyed Southwest's inclusive ticket offerings.

Deep dives

Changes to Southwest's Baggage Policy

Southwest Airlines has announced significant changes to its baggage policy, moving away from its longstanding 'bags fly free' mantra. Starting soon, most customers will have to pay for checked bags, deviating from the airline's tradition that set it apart from competitors. Only those with elite status or who purchase higher fare classes will benefit from free checked baggage, which could lead to dissatisfaction among loyal customers who appreciate Southwest's former policy. This shift is surprising, especially since just months prior, the airline maintained that the free baggage policy was sacrosanct.

Intro

2min

Southwest Airlines Policy Overhaul

17min

Southwest Airlines Fare Structure Changes

7min

Changes in Southwest Airlines Policies

4min

Nostalgia and New Tools for Travelers

2min

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Southwest dropped some news this week, and it was all uniformly bad. These were not small changes, and many customers will be upset. "Bags Fly Free" is no longer a surety on Southwest. Many customers, including those that don't have elite status or a credit card with the airline, will now pay for checked bags. Fares are getting more restrictive, award flights are getting more expensive, flight credits will now expire. It's really not good news. Julian Kheel fills in this week to go through all the changes. As the founder of Points Path, he's also the sponsor of our giveaway this week. Be sure to weigh in with your thoughts on the Southwest changes for a chance to win! Chapters: 0:00 Intro 2:25 Southwest Changes 8:46 Devil's Advocate 15:03 Southwest Falls Short vs. Legacy Carriers 23:05 Poll Questions 24:22:00 The Effect on Leisure Travelers 26:23:00 Future of the Companion Pass 30:52:00 Outro

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