Southwest Airlines announces new baggage policy

by Justin Glow on

Southwest Airlines made some adjustments to their baggage policy. I’m just going to paste what they wrote on their blog since I’d rather not muck up the already-confusing changes:

“The free baggage allowance for each ticketed Customer will change from three to two bags. The first and second bag you check (up to 50lbs) are FREE. The third bag (also up to 50 lbs) will be $25.00. Oversized and overweight bags may be subject to extra charges. The maximum dimensions will remain the same, where the luggage should not exceed sixty-two (62) inches when you add the length + width + height. SWA does not accept items over 100lbs.

“Customers will still be permitted to substitute certain sporting equipment free of charge in place of one of the two free bags. For example, ski equipment can be used for a free bag, SWA allows up to two bags (containing one set of snow skis, ski poles, and ski boots) to count as one item, even if they are packed and tagged separately. (Overweight charges may still apply.)

“Customers may substitute up to two baby items, such as car seats and strollers, in exchange for one checked bag. In real-life terms, a family of four (including two small children over the age of two) may check two sets of golf clubs, two strollers, two car seats, and four pieces of luggage (under 50 pounds each) all for free.”

So in case that isn’t clear: you can now substitute a pair of skis for a baby stroller, which is something you should seriously consider the next time you fly Southwest with your kid. Would you rather have a munchkin that grows up to be a winter Olympic medal winner, or a lazy dolt that’s used to being pushed around all day by his parents? I thought so. Thanks, Southwest!

Southwest Airlines Blog: New Baggage Policy

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How cool is this plane?

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Southwest airlines to allow higher-paying customers boarding priority

by Catherine Bodry on

Justin covered Southwest Airlines‘ boarding procedures as the company tooled around with changes (here and here). But as the boarding rules changed, one thing remained constant: all citizens were equal on Southwest flights. Here, the economy-class commoners mingled with business-class budgeters. There was no “class warfare” on Southwest, as there were no classes. It was all economy, all the way. No special boarding, and no special treatment.

But although Southwest is maintaining the illusion of a perfect democracy, those with more money will soon be able to board first and get their pick of seats. The airline isn’t adding a First or Business class, and presumably it’s still in the budget-airline category. But it is beginning to cater to business travelers by selling last-minute and more expensive tickets to “business select” travelers. Customers who buy these tickets are automatically placed in the “A” boarding group, which gets to board first. “Business select” travelers even get a complimentary cocktail!

Sounds like a new class has emerged at Southwest after all.

Read the full article here.

Remember Kyla Ebbert, the Southwest Airlines “Skirtgate” girl? Click here to check out her shameless MySpace photos.