In a potential move to reshape its long-held reputation for simplicity and customer-first policies, Southwest Airlines is preparing to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of its fare structure and onboard amenities. The modifications, among the most dramatic in the airline’s history, will begin May 28, 2025, and will affect everything from seat choice to fees for bags, according to reports by Arizona Republic and LA Times.
Four New Fare Levels Launched
Southwest is moving to a four-tier fare system, providing customers with more distinct options based on cost, flexibility, and extra benefits. The new fare categories are:
- Wanna Get Away – Low-cost, bare-bones option best for cost-conscious travelers
- Wanna Get Away Plus – Provides minimal flexibility and some extra perks
- Flight Flex (Choice) – Adds features like flight changes and early boarding
- Business Select – High-end tier with highest level of flexibility and priority services
The airline’s objective is to more closely match overall industry standards without sacrificing value at any price level.
Checked Bags No Longer Free for Everyone
One of the best perks of flying Southwest two free bags checked is being rolled back. From now on, only travelers on Business Select fares or members of top-level loyalty status will get free checked bags. Others will have to pay for bags, with specifics to be unveiled soon.
This change puts Southwest in alignment with numerous other U.S. carriers and is part of a larger strategy aimed at revenue diversification and operational consistency.
Assigned Seats and Upgrades Coming
Southwest’s signature open-seating policy, a branding staple will be phased out. The airline will start assigning seats to all its customers, with options to buy upgraded ones. They are seats with additional legroom and seats that are in better positions of the cabin.
The shift should make boarding simpler, decrease in-flight uncertainty, and give travelers greater control over seat assignment.
Loyalty Benefits Remain Unchanged
Elite loyalty members, such as A-List Preferred passengers, will continue to receive perks like priority boarding, bonus points, and complimentary checked bags. While the loyalty program itself does not change, the airline is doubling down on rewarding regular travelers through these preserved benefits.
What Travelers Should Keep in Mind
With these changes mirroring a wider trend within the post-pandemic airline sector, travelers traveling on and after May 28, 2025, should double-check carefully the new fare bands and book in advance accordingly. With increasing services moving a la carte, knowledge of the inclusions and exclusions of each fare band will enable the traveler to steer clear of unexpected expenses or missed benefits.
