Southwest Airlines Flyers Brutally Mock Company Over Canceled Free Bag Policy: 'Southwest Becoming Spirit Overnight'

Southwest Airlines is facing widespread online backlash and mockery after announcing it will end its signature free bag policy for most passengers, with many comparing the airline to budget carrier Spirit Airlines.

For decades, Southwest Airlines stood out in the industry by allowing all passengers to check two bags for free, a policy that became a cornerstone of its brand.

On Tuesday, Southwest announced that only select passengers—such as A-List Preferred Members and Business Select travelers—would still receive two free checked bags, while other loyalty program members would get only one, The Hill reported.

For all other passengers, starting May 28, checking luggage will now come at an additional cost, though the airline has yet to disclose the fee structure.

The decision sparked immediate backlash on social media, with frustrated customers taking to platforms like X to mock Southwest. Many compared the airline to Spirit and Frontier, which are notorious for charging fees for parts of the travel experience.

Phrases like "Southwest is becoming Spirit overnight" and "RIP Bags Fly Free" trended as longtime loyalists expressed their disappointment.

"Southwest said 'ya'll broke?? US TOO!'" one user joked. "I defended you against all the haters Southwest, and you do this to me????" another user lamented.

If Southwest's gamble pays off, it may see an increase in revenue from baggage fees and attract more budget-focused travelers.