Southwest Airlines Just Changed Everything and Travelers Are Furious

Southwest Airlines, long recognized for its customer-friendly approach, announced a major overhaul yesterday, March 11, 2025, ending policies that had set them apart in the aviation industry for nearly 54 years.

In a press release, Southwest Airlines stated that these changes aim to “drive revenue growth and reward its most loyal customers,” but many longtime travelers feel betrayed and outraged.

The changes sparking traveler outrage include introducing checked baggage fees, a new basic economy fare, modifications to the Rapid Rewards program, and shifting from open seating to assigned seating.

These changes have triggered strong reactions from loyalists.

“The transformation and death of Southwest and all it stood for is now complete,” a disappointed traveler wrote on Reddit. Another stated, “Southwest has become just another airline.”

Checked Baggage Fees Spark Customer Outrage

“Literally the only reason I fly Southwest anymore is because of their free bag policy… Now I gotta pay for bags on top of that? Nope, see ya later SW,” one frustrated traveler wrote on Reddit.

Another added, “Well now that they charge for checked bags I have no reason to fly them anymore. Used to exclusively use them for snowboard trips where I would check two bags. Their routes were not ideal but it saved me money on bags. Now I have pretty much zero reason to consider them.” ​

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines stood out from the competition for decades with its signature “bags fly free” policy. That changes on May 28, 2025, when the airline will begin charging for checked luggage. Under the new rules:

• A-List Preferred Members and Business Select passengers will still receive two free checked bags.
• A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardholders will get one free checked bag.
• All other passengers must pay for checked luggage, though Southwest has not yet disclosed the fees.

This move aligns Southwest with other major airlines, collectively generating over $54.1 billion from baggage fees in 2023.

Basic Economy Fare Frustrates Flyers

“So now Southwest is just like every other airline—nickel-and-diming us for every little thing? I used to count on them for flexibility, but this new Basic fare locks me in with no changes and fewer rewards. It feels like they’re punishing budget travelers,” one disappointed customer wrote on Reddit.

To attract more budget-conscious passengers, Southwest is rolling out a basic fare. However, this option comes with strict limitations:

• No flight changes or standbys: Passengers purchasing Basic fares cannot change their flights or opt for same-day standby.
• Non-transferable flight credits: Canceled flights will get you credits that expire in six months and cannot be transferred.
• Reduced Rapid Rewards points: Basic fare travelers will earn fewer points per dollar spent.

These changes make the lowest fares less appealing, encouraging travelers to pay more for higher fare options that offer greater flexibility and better rewards.

Rapid Rewards Program Changes Leave Flyers Feeling Devalued

“So now, not only am I paying more for bags, but I’m also earning fewer points for my flights? Southwest used to be the best for budget-conscious frequent travelers, but it feels like they’re punishing us for not spending top dollar,” one frustrated customer wrote on Reddit.

Southwest Airlines

The airline is overhauling its Rapid Rewards program, shifting its focus to higher-spending travelers:

• Basic fare passengers will earn just 2 points per dollar spent—down from the previous 6 points.
• Wanna Get Away Plus fares earn 6 points per dollar (down from 10).
• Business Select fares will be slightly boosted, earning 14 points per dollar (up from 12).

These changes will reward premium travelers while significantly reducing the value for budget-conscious flyers.

Assigned Seating Change Leaves Flyers Split

One traveler on Reddit expressed concern, stating, “I hate assigned seats. I’m 6’5″ with wide shoulders. If I have to book a last-minute flight and only middle seats are left, that would be awful.”

Some passengers, however, welcome the change. A frequent flyer noted, “I prefer assigned seats. I like not having to worry about where I’ll find a spot, and being able to ensure my party gets seated together if needed.”

Southwest Airlines

Starting in late 2025, Southwest will phase out its open seating model, which has long been a hallmark of its brand. The new system will include:

• Extra Legroom Seats: Located near the front or in exit rows, these will likely come at a premium.
• Preferred Seats: Standard legroom seats are available in more desirable cabin locations.
• Standard Seats: Basic seating with no added perks.

Southwest says the move responds to customer demand for more predictability when selecting seats. Still, the airline is losing one of its last unique advantages for many long-time flyers.

Loyal Flyers Fear Southwest Is Losing Its Identity

Many loyal patrons are expressing disappointment and concern over the airline’s new direction.​ The challenge for Southwest Airlines going forward will be balancing profitability with customer satisfaction to maintain the trust and loyalty built over decades.