Southwest Airlines announced it will begin charging customers for checked bags, marking a significant shift from its decades-long policy of offering free checked baggage. This change applies to those who haven’t reached the upper tiers of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, purchased a business class ticket, or hold the airline’s credit card. The new policy will start with bookings made on or after May 28. The airline cited the need to meet customer needs, attract new segments, and restore profitability as reasons for the change. Southwest has faced pressure from investors to boost profits and recently announced job cuts as part of a cost-cutting plan. Despite previously emphasizing the importance of its free baggage policy, the airline estimates that charging for bags could bring in about $1.5 billion annually but might cost $1.8 billion in lost business. Certain loyalty members and credit card holders will still enjoy free checked bags under specific conditions. — news from The Associated Press
