Transportation
Southwest Airlines Polls Customers on Changing Free Bag Policy
- Survey seeks feedback on imposing fees for lower-cost fares
- Carrier is under pressure from activist to overhaul business
Southwest has long stood by its “bags fly free” policy, which executives have said differentiates the carrier from competitors.
Photographer: Angus Mordant/BloombergThis article is for subscribers only.
Southwest Airlines Co. is seeking customer feedback on possible changes to its policy allowing free checked bags, suggesting the carrier could scrap another of its defining perks as it tries to fend off an activist investor.
The company surveyed select loyalty members and consumers beginning last week about hypothetical scenarios imposing bag fees for lower-cost fares. The questionnaire, part of which was seen by Bloomberg and confirmed by the airline, also sought views on travel habits, loyalty status benefits and booking preferences.