Did Southwest Airlines just make a huge mistake?
Briefly

This week, air travel news highlights Southwest Airlines' controversial decision to end its 'bags fly free' policy, eliciting negative reactions from customers. This course was reportedly influenced by Elliott Investment Management, which seeks to enhance the airline's profitability. Other recent changes by Southwest include assigned seating and reduced loyalty point earnings. In contrast, Spirit Airlines re-emerges from bankruptcy with plans to diversify services and expand routes. Additionally, consumer apprehension about air travel safety is growing, with findings showing travelers are employing different strategies to cope with the stress of flying.
Southwest's recent decision to abandon its 'bags fly free' policy signals a significant departure from its historic business model amid pressure from shareholders.
As Southwest Airlines shifts to charging fees for checked luggage, the backlash from customers reflects broader concerns about air travel's safety and cost structures.
In response to shareholder pressure, Southwest has made radical changes, such as moving to assigned seating and increasing costs for loyalty points, sparking customer dissatisfaction.
Spirit Airlines, emerging from Chapter 11, plans to diversify its offerings, illustrating a contrasting strategy to Southwest's recent fee implementations and customer backlash.
Read at SFGATE
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