• Southwest Airlines will start charging $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second from May 28.
• The airline has abandoned its long-standing "two bags fly free" policy after 50 years.
• Premium members and certain ticket classes will still enjoy bag allowances without fees.
• Changes to seating arrangements will also accompany the new baggage policy.
• The decision reportedly aims to improve financial stability amidst rising operational costs.

Effective May 28, Southwest Airlines will implement its first checked bag fees, charging $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second. This marks the end of a 50-year-long policy that allowed passengers to check two bags for free, a practice that helped distinguish the budget airline from its competitors. The move, announced in March, is part of a broader effort to enhance financial performance in light of increased operational costs, according to Indiatimes and CBS News.

Passengers who will not benefit from the changes include those who have not achieved upper tiers in the Rapid Rewards program, purchased Business Select fares, or hold the Southwest credit card. However, specific perks remain for some, allowing Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and those traveling on Business Select minimum benefits like two free checked bags, as stated in reports by The Hill and Newsweek.

The decision to charge bag fees comes as Southwest struggles to adapt to changing times, including increased fuel costs and evolving consumer habits. The airline’s executives initially resisted such changes, recognizing the importance of their "two bags fly free" policy in attracting passengers. However, with the terminations of other perks, including self-select seating, Southwest aims to realign its business to be more competitive and profitable, reported Business Insider and The Hill.

As the airline navigates these turbulent changes, its revenues from baggage fees are anticipated to reach around $1.5 billion annually. However, this new fee structure could lead to customer pushback, as many frequent flyers express dissatisfaction with the changes. This sentiment was echoed by industry analysts who noted that tighter financial controls are indicative of a larger shift in the airline industry, according to Business Insider and Newsweek.