Southwest's New Fare Structure: What Travelers Need to Know
Southwest Airlines has announced significant changes to its fare structure and benefits, set to take full effect on May 28, 2025. These updates represent one of the most substantial shifts in the airline's customer offerings in recent years. Here's what you need to know about these changes and how they might affect your future travel plans.
Farewell to Free Checked Bags for Most Travelers
Perhaps the most notable change is the end of Southwest's long-standing policy of two free checked bags for all passengers. Under the new structure:
Business Select passengers and A-List Preferred members will continue to enjoy two free checked bags
A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will receive one free checked bag
All other passengers will now pay for their first and second bags
This marks a significant departure from one of Southwest's most distinctive customer benefits that has set it apart from competitors for decades.
Four-Tiered Fare Structure
Southwest is introducing a clearer distinction between its fare tiers, ranging from the premium Business Select to the new budget-friendly Basic fare.
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14X Rapid Rewards points on fare
12-month flight credit expiration
Transferable flight credits
Fully refundable
A1-A15 priority boarding
Complimentary premium drink and in-flight internet
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10X Rapid Rewards points
12-month flight credit expiration
Transferable flight credits
Fully refundable
EarlyBird Check-In included
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6X Rapid Rewards points
12-month flight credit expiration
Transferable flight credits
Non-refundable
Same-day changes available
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2X Rapid Rewards points
Shorter 6-month flight credit expiration
Non-transferable flight credits
Non-refundable
No same-day changes or standby options
Changes to Rapid Rewards
The airline has already begun adjusting its rewards program with increased earn ratios for Business Select customers while decreasing them for Wanna Get Away and Wanna Get Away Plus fares. Additionally, redemption rates will now vary based on demand, similar to other major airlines' dynamic pricing models.
Flight Credits Now Have Expiration Dates
Another significant change is the introduction of expiration dates for flight credits:
12 months for Business Select, Anytime, and Wanna Get Away Plus
6 months for the new Basic fare
What This Means for Travelers
These changes reflect Southwest's adaptation to competitive pressures in the airline industry while still attempting to maintain some differentiation. For budget-conscious travelers who previously enjoyed Southwest's generous policies, the new structure may require more careful consideration when booking.
The tiered approach does provide more options to customize your travel experience based on your priorities—whether you value maximum flexibility, rewards accumulation, or simply the lowest possible fare.
For frequent Southwest flyers, the changes to the checked bag policy and rewards program will be particularly noticeable. Those with A-List status or the airline's credit card will still retain some baggage benefits, potentially making these programs more valuable for regular customers.
Southwest acknowledges these changes may disappoint some loyal customers but emphasizes its commitment to competitive fares, convenient routes, and its signature customer service experience.
I am personally unsure how I feel about these changes. I don’t regularly utilize the bag policy and am a card holder, so that will not be as large of a burden than it is for others. (My heart goes out to all of those families that relied on Southwest to get their families & ALL of the gear that comes with them!) As the year goes on and these changes are implemented, I’ll have to evaluate how the changes change my flight choices.
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