Southwest Airlines Ends Free Checked Bags, Reshapes Business Model

American Airlines is enhancing its in-flight and airport experience with new snack options and a touchless identification program. Starting in June, American Airlines will offer new buy-on-board snacks including specialty sandwiches, snack baskets, and local beverages like Socorro Tequila. Concurrently, the airline has launched a Touchless ID initiative at Washington’s Ronald Reagan National Airport, allowing AAdvantage members enrolled in TSA PreCheck to use facial recognition technology for expedited security screening, with plans to expand to other airports. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines is ending its long-standing "Bags Fly Free" policy, now charging passengers $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second, aligning with other major carriers. This shift accompanies broader changes at Southwest, including job cuts and alterations to its boarding and seating policies, reflecting a strategic pivot toward prioritizing investors and profitability. These developments mark significant shifts in the U.S. airline industry, affecting customer experience and fare structures.