About Southwest Airlines

Everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines and their services

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About the Airline

Southwest Airlines is a major American airline headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Founded in 1967, it's known for its low-cost fare structure and customer-friendly policies. Southwest operates more than 4,000 flights daily during peak travel seasons across the United States and international destinations.

Baggage Policy

Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest has updated their baggage policy. Free checked bags are now limited to certain status levels and fare types. A-List Preferred and Choice Extra fare customers get two free bags, while A-List members and Rapid Rewards® credit card holders get one free bag.

Rapid Rewards

Southwest's loyalty program, Rapid Rewards, allows members to earn points on flights and partner services. These points can be redeemed for flights with no blackout dates. Members also enjoy benefits like priority boarding and bonus points on qualifying flights.

A-List Status
A-List Preferred

Southwest Credit Cards

Southwest offers co-branded credit cards with benefits like signup bonuses, anniversary points, and the ability to earn tier-qualifying points towards A-List status. Cardholders receive one free checked bag under the new baggage policy.

Key Features

No assigned seating policy
Family boarding options
Flexible change policy
Transparent pricing
All-Boeing 737 fleet
Companion Pass benefit

Travel Essentials

The New Baggage Policy

Effective May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has updated their baggage policy. Under the new rules, most customers will pay a fee for all checked bags.

Free bag allowances:

  • A-List Preferred members: Two free checked bags
  • Choice Extra fare: Two free checked bags
  • A-List members: One free checked bag
  • Rapid Rewards® Credit Card holders: One free checked bag
  • Active-duty military: Unlimited free checked bags (with ID)

Carry-on allowance remains unchanged: all passengers are still entitled to one carry-on bag plus one personal item at no additional charge.

Military Benefits

Active-duty U.S. military personnel with valid military ID continue to enjoy unlimited free checked bags. Each bag may weigh up to 100 lbs and measure up to 80 inches in combined dimensions (length + width + height).