Southwest Airlines recently made a big change to its fee structure. The cost for EarlyBird Check-In now ranges from $15 to $99 per person for one-way flights. This is a significant jump from the earlier $25 limit. Also, the fees for Upgraded Boarding now go from $30 to $149 per trip, which used to be up to $80 before. This change is aimed at fitting in with what other companies do and meeting what travelers want today.
With these updates, Southwest Airlines wants to strengthen its money situation while keeping its unique open seating option. Even with the new prices, you can still pick your seat ahead of time. Southwest is focused on making more money and staying strong in the fast-changing airline industry.
Details on the Fee Increase for EarlyBird Check-In
Southwest Airlines recently raised its fees for EarlyBird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding. This change shows the airline’s aim to better passenger services. Now, the EarlyBird Check-In fee ranges from $15 to $99 one-way. This is up from a maximum of $25 before. The Upgraded Boarding fee also jumped to $30 to $149 per segment from the previous $80 cap.
The increase in fees reflects a broader trend in the airline industry. It shows a move toward earning more through service upgrades.
New Fee Range
Southwest Airlines’ new fee for EarlyBird Check-In has gone up by 300%. It now varies from $15 to $99 per one-way trip. This marks a sharp increase from the old $25 cap. For Upgraded Boarding, fees now range from $30 to $149 per segment, per person. This doubles the previous max fee of $80.
These changes started on May 23. They are based on the flight’s length and its demand. This price update is in line with a trend seen across major airlines. They are adjusting extra fees like those for checked bags to match the market.
Impact on Passengers
The new check-in fees have a big effect on Southwest Airlines’ regular flyers. EarlyBird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding are key for those wanting good seats. The airline follows an open-seating policy. So, with the updated fees, flying might cost passengers more.
To lessen this effect, Southwest offers some alternatives. Holders of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus and Premier Credit Cards get two free EarlyBird Check-Ins yearly. The Rapid Rewards Priority and Performance Business Credit Cards give four free Upgraded Boarding passes each year. Also, elite A-List and A-List Preferred members of Southwest Rapid Rewards keep their priority boarding perks. This helps them handle the fee changes well.
While higher fees have upset some travelers, these adjustments aim to meet changing customer needs. They also seek to improve the overall flying experience.
Reasons Behind Southwest Airlines’ Fee Update
Southwest Airlines has raised its EarlyBird Check-In and Upgraded Boarding fees. This change follows the trends in the airline industry. Airlines are finding new ways to make extra money. This helps cover increasing costs and meet the demand for fancy services.
The fees for EarlyBird Check-In have gone up to $15 to $99 for each part of the trip. Before, it was $15 to $25. Upgraded Boarding fees now range from $30 to $149, up from $30 to $80. This means customers might pay up to $199 extra for round-trip EarlyBird Check-In.
Southwest is known for not charging for checked bags and not assigning seats. That’s why people like to board early and pick their seats first. The new fees make sense with what’s happening in the market. They also meet what customers want. Plus, Southwest credit card holders get some EarlyBird Check-Ins and Upgraded Boardings for free every year. These changes aim to increase profits while offering perks that set Southwest apart from other airlines.
