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Southwest Airlines Community

New Baggage Policy

mchan
Explorer A
This week, Southwest Airlines implemented a new baggage policy. I just wanted to make sure all the Passengers of Southwest Airlines knew about this one. The free baggage allowance for each ticketed Customer will change from three to two bags. The first and second bag you check (up to 50lbs) are FREE. The third bag (also up to 50 lbs) will be $25.00. Oversized and overweight bags may be subject to extra charges. The maximum dimensions will remain the same, where the luggage should not exceed sixty-two (62) inches when you add the length + width + height. SWA does not accept items over 100lbs. Customers will still be permitted to substitute certain sporting equipment free of charge in place of one of the two free bags. For example, ski equipment can be used for a free bag, SWA allows up to two bags (containing one set of snow skis, ski poles, and ski boots) to count as one item, even if they are packed and tagged separately. (Overweight charges may still apply.) Customers may substitute up to two baby items, such as car seats and strollers, in exchange for one checked bag. In real-life terms, a family of four (including two small children over the age of two) may check two sets of golf clubs, two strollers, two car seats, and four pieces of luggage (under 50 pounds each) all for free.
73 Comments
Anonymous4063
Explorer A
My guess is most people don't travel with more than two checked bags anyways since Southwest doesn't fly Internationally. I just went on a 7 day cruise and had one checked bag and a carry-on. I do want to complain about the 50lb. limit though. The 29" bag had just clothes in it and was 63lbs. so I had to pay the fee for being overweight. Southwest and other airlines really need to reconsider the weight limit on this. It wouldn't be so bad if they said one checked bag weight limit is 75lbs. and two checked bags, weight limit for both bags combined was 100lbs.
blusk
Aviator C
Steve, You are right about people checking the third bag. Our research showed that of all the Customers who checked baggage, less than two percent of them had more than two bags. As to the weight, 50 pounds usually provides enough "cushin" for most everyone's needs. The overweight fee is in place for two reasons. The biggest one is that it prevents injuries to our Ramp Agents. As a former ramper, I can tell you that it is no big deal lifting one or two bags a day that weigh over 50 pounds. However if you are continually lifting this amount (in the quick manner of our folks), it will start to tear up your back. The other reason is that it costs extra fuel and extra money to move the extra weight
stove
Explorer A
Since less 2% of your passengers check three bags, is it really worth all the extra effort to change this policy? Press releases, employee education, literature, etc. all take time and money to implement. It looks pretty silly to make a change that is passenger negative, especially since the actual number of passengers affected is so small. And, for the record, I've never checked three bags on SWA.
Kevin1
Explorer C
1.) I think that change in your baggage policy is very smart and fare 2.) You should reconsider your bag weight limit, Virgin America allows one bag of 75lbs. Yes, I can do math 2 x 50 =100. I have witnessed other passengers and also personally been forced to waste your employee's time and other passenger's time shuffling things between bags at check in to avoid a $25 fee for a bag that weighs 52 lbs when my other bag weighs 48 lbs. What I would propose is a per pound fee, at your current rate that would be $1.25/lb. So instead of people sitting there shuffling between two bags or taking things out to carry on, they could just pay $2.50 and be on their way. You could also institute a "flex" policy where if someone does have two bags you allow a weight tolerance in the bags (less than 5lbs to protect your rampers) as long as the total is less than or equal to 100 lbs. So if a guy shows up with a bag that is 45 lbs and a bag that is 55 lbs it is "thank you enjoy your flight," not "I have to charge you a fee..." Let's be honest every time you go to charge an extra fee it adds a lot of time to the check in process and time is also money. I have never checked three bags, but I have started packing a small duffel in my suitcase just in case my bag weighs 52 lbs on the airport scale when it weighed 48 on mine.
Kevin1
Explorer C
I would also like to add one caveat. I find in my travels on every airline, that the FAA regulations for carry on bags are slightly enforced. Traveling between Northern and Southern California, overhead bin space is always tight, and there is always someone trying to put a bag in there that takes up more space than your policy allows. I'm not sure if there is a good way to solve that problem and it is one that EVERY airline has. I guess people don't trust baggage handlers. Personally, I trust yours more than anyone else.
Anonymous4395
Explorer B
OK
rich824
Explorer C
Brian, I would also wonder the same question, about changing the baggage policy. If this policy will affect so few passengers, why would it even be changed? Even though, I have not checked three bags; it was also good to know that, unlike many other carriers, SWA would allow me to check three bags without an extra charge. Thank you.
Shannon5
Explorer C
Personally, I would rather pay an extra fee to check my third bag than have the old policy, which might have been reflected in a fare hike. With fuel costs as high as they are, I can't blame Southwest for trying to find a way to decrease weight. In fact, I commend them for it.
sparky
Explorer A
I think that the new policy as good... No matter where I travel, I always only carry one bag, never more than than about 15 lbs. Has everything that I need and then some, plus I carry my Laptop. My bag is the same exact size as a crew member bag and fits perfect in the over head. I personally do not understand how some people pack so heavily. I am actually a Mechanic at another airline, but have help the Baggage (smashers as we call them) Handlers move the Luggage, and what some people pack is beyond understanding. Another thing that I do not understand is carrying the LARGEST, and HEAVIST baby carriage that sometimes barely seems to fit in the cargo door. Geez. If you are going to travel, go get the smaller one. These big ones are NOT made for airplanes. Everyone one can travel light, and carry everything that you need. Most hotels have complimentary lotions, shampoo, conditioner, soap... TSA limits and gets very picky about wanting to see these tubes and bottles. Best advice. LEAVE THEM AT HOME.... YOU DO NOT NEED THEM. For what time you are out of town... Usually 2 weeks at a time, you can buy your special stuff in smaller qty's once you get there, or just tough it out. A few days will not hurt without your special flavor. I know there are some ladies out there fussing at me as they read this... But pack light. Try it.. It does not hurt... As a matter of fact, when you get off an airplane after being on it for 4 to 6 or maybe more hours.. You will appreaciate a light load when picking up your back at Baggage claim.
ann_gordon
Explorer C
appears SW has now started to nickel and dime Re baggage restrictions and fees. I just got caught while traveling with ski and boot bag. ah well, fly united I guess.....
Deb17
Explorer C
Southwest should look at and ENFORCE their carry on baggage requirements. Many people carry on luggage that is way beyond what would fit in those "if it doesn't fit in here, then you can't carry it on" stands. It's very annoying waiting for them to try and heave all those bags into the over head bins!! Southwest should really enforce this policy
BYJEDARS_EXCLUS
Explorer C
I TRAVELED OUT OF ILLINOIS INTO ARIZONA ON 01/29 AND WAS CHARGED $25 FOR MY 3RD BAG(CLOTHING FOR FAMILY FOR A LATE CHRISTMAS). BUT PER THIS LISTING IT IS STATING THAT THE EFFECTIVE DATE WAS 1/31 AND NOT 1/29. PLEASE CONFIRM, I BELIEVE SOUTHWEST OWES ME $25. AS I STOOD AT THE COUNTER QUESTIONING THEM THAT THERE HAD BEEN NO ADVERTISING OR EMAIL OR CALL TO MY CELL REGARDING THIS CHANGE SINCE MY TICKET WAS PURCHASED PRIOR TO THE CHANGE I BELIEVE THE FIRST PART OF OCTOBER, 2007. TO ONLY BE TOLD THAT IF I WAS COMING BACK INSTEAD OF GOING OUTBOUND THAT I WOULD NOT BE CHARGED FOR THE 3RD BAG. I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR COMMENT/S ON THIS. THANKS 2/1/2008 7:18PM
Anonymous4393
Explorer C
I agree that it is not good public relations for SWAL to make announcements at this time regarding changes that really do not affect many people, i.e., passengers who check more than 3 bags a person. SWAL has been making many changes in the past year relative to fares, boarding passes, small children, standing in lines, the mileage program, etc...some with great fanfare, and others, oh so quietly. Frankly, there are not all to the advantage of the passenger, i.e., why should I not obtain an "A" boarding pass when I check in online at 12:01a.m? Where did all those "A" passes disappear to in 1 second...to those selected VIP passengers, that's where! The newer leather seats that are advertised as being more comfortable are the least cozy seats I've ever sat in on a plane because I slip and slide in them with the rolling of the plane...they are not ergonomic either; whoever designed a seat with a concave curve in them similar to SWAL's new seats must have had a hump back. Please do not tell me that you will be eliminating priority boarding for those of us who need extra time boarding; I have already encountered a SWAL agent who refused to allow my husband to preboard because he wasn't in a wheelchair, and he didn't have a cane! There are those of us who need to walk very slowly, but we don't need someone pushing us down the ramp; we should be able to preboard on SWAL the same as we can on every other airline. Why make a big deal about a third bag that is rarely checked? You need better public relations, not more negative vibes. What else do you have in store for us, SWAL? Remember, competition is picking up; you are no longer the "best deal" out there! Herb, come home!
maharder
Explorer C
The baggage requirements seem very lenient.........I wish the changes made were addressing the carry on baggage and the time taken to stash it all in overheads.........such a pain . Those passengers should deplane last in my opinion. I am a frequent flyer and always check my bags.........wish everyone would.
Vaclav_Booktape
Explorer C
HEY Southwest ... You're too GREEDY ... SO SCREW YOU VERY MUCH ! I'll take my business to ATA ... They're morebetter than you ! Vaclav T. Booktapeeka Phoenix, AriZOOna and Prague, Czech Republic
C__L__Brown
Explorer C
I like Southwest Airlines very much because they treat elderly passengers with so much courtesy and respect. I admit that trying to pack a large bag to weigh only 50 lbs. is difficult but since two are allowed then that should be no trouble. Safety comes first with weight. What about weighing very obese passengers. I worry more about their poundage and dread being squeezed into a seat to accomodate people who should really buy two seats for themselves. I cannot believe the CARRYON luggage that is allowed. I have been bumped, thumped, and bruised by the carelessness of passengers trying to shove heavy awkward bags/duffles/tourist objects over my head. Why not limit CARRYONS as well!!! This is still my favorite airline and I use it to visit my five grown children and my grandchildren who live in four different states!
Al_Keholik
Explorer C
There are two classes of passengers, infrequent and frequent fliers. I fall in the first class, and if I packed an extra tee shirt and had to pay $25 because my bag weighs 51 pounds, I would not be pleased. I've never checked in more than two bags, so that's not a problem, but the weight limit is a problem. Also, does "certain sporting equipment " include golf bags?
Scott7
Explorer C
I agree with many of the posts on here. Why make a change that changes very little. If it only effects a few passengers, all you really have done is discourage some of your customers. I do check three bags sometimes. I race model cars and it is difficult to get 4 days of clothing and all my race gear into 2 50lb bags. I know a number of racers that fly southwest just because of the baggage policy. I am very disappointed to read of your new baggage policy and hope that you will reconsider. As somebody else said it is the ridiculous carry on bags that need to be addressed. I remember how right after 9/11 all the airlines were enforcing those rules and nobody seemed to mind. Now that things have been quiet for a while people are carrying on bags that are huge. One of the things that slows down the boarding process is the people with the giant bags looking around for a space large enough to then try and force their huge bag into the bin. Enforce the rules you already have before you start making new ones.
Sam10
Explorer C
My guess is that Southwest is trying to band the Military from flying. I spent 20 years in the Navy and my Seabag was over 50 pounds and my Suit bag was very close to to it. So I guess if I fly it won't be on Southwest.
Henry4
Explorer C
Foolish to overpack. I can go on 6 week+ international flight /trip with one roll- aboard and one very small day pack. Anyone can. Never, never check a bag and give airline the opportunity to loose it. Why burden yourself with "stuff" that you don't need? visit onebag.com. I see people get onto planes with enough baggage for the average person to move their habitation.
Janice_Adams
Explorer C
As a long time Rapid Rewards member and a very frequent flier, all of your recent policy changes are distressing to me. We exclusively fly SWA. Your route from FLL to BNA is great for us even though the NS is often at a less than desirable time. I didn't mind giving up some luxuries for a good price and consistent on time no lost luggage service. The new boarding process is confusing to most and accomplishes nothing. You still end up with a full flight and no control over who sits next to you. Your price has gone up and you're offering to trade in our Rewards credits two for one if we want a better selection on availability...What?...The baggage limit is not an issue...I agree with the other folks writing in, we would rather see restrictions on carry-ons...You better be careful, because, as you all say on every flight...we have many choices when we are flying, and we might just chose somebody else... Price and service always win out...Thanks for listening...
LEROY
Explorer C
WHY ISN'T THE POLICY BASED ON AN AGGREGATE WEIGHT OF 100 LBS.? IF THEY'LL TAKE TWO 50 LBS. BAGS, WHY PENALIZE THE PERSON WHO CHECKS ONE 55 LBS. BAG? MY GUESS IS THE $25.00 IS THE COVER THE COST OF FLYING EXTRA WEIGHT, BUT IF 135 PEOPLE CAN PUT 13,500 LBS. IN THE LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT AT NO CHARGE, WHAT SENSE DOES IT MAKE TO CHARGE THEM $3,375.00 IF EACH ONE CHECKED 55 LBS. FOR A TOTAL WEIGHT OF 7,425 LBS.? A POLICY BASED ON SINGLE BAG WEIGHT MAKES NOW SENSE.
Al_R
Explorer C
I just heard of the new baggage policy second hand. I fly SW very often and when I am doing a sporting event the third bag allowance was great. I didn't need it on many occasions but it was a perk to favor flying SW. Now the advantages are getting fewer.
Jeff1
Explorer C
If less than two percent of passengers check a third bag forget about the extra charge. You're spending dollars to chase nickels. Why not charge the disgusting fat bodies that take up part of MY seat for the space they actually take-like two seats. I would bet that two percent of your passengers are obese enough to need an extra seat. Put these people on notice that extra weight is extra weight-whether in baggage or in a seat.
A__M__Rossi
Explorer C
Well, you have mucked up the boarding process and now you are going to work on baggage. Did you people ever hear of the concept of it isn't broke, don't try to fix it. It is interesting lining up with a boarding pass that says A-32 and discovering that, in reality, there are only about 6 people ahead of you. Under the old policy, if we wanted to stand in line we did. And if we didn't, the worst we ended up was at the 30th position. Why not make the entire plane "A" and you can think that you have fooled all of the passengers. Thank goodness there is beginning to be some competition on some of your routes.
M__Easley
Explorer C
I totally agree with those that wrote about the carry on luggage people bring on board. I really think that all the airlines, not just Southwest , needs to not let any carry on suitcase bigger than a laptop roller bag or 21" suitcase. I watched a man take up almost an entire bin with two huge duffle bags. That should be totally unacceptable. I fly out every Monday and come home every Friday, and 3 flights within the last month ( 1 Southwest and 2 another airline), I had to check a regular size rolling computer bag because all the bins were full of oversized bags.
james_gallagher
Explorer C
just another way to raise prices without people being aware. not swa but flew to p.r. okay but same bags over weight on return. took items from suitcase and put to carry-on and was okay. same weight on plane, no?
patra
Explorer C
I think thats suth west is one of the worst airline, their staff are very rude and the service on their flight sometime u would rather wish u were amtrak, i cant beleive people still be using that airline their service SUCKS
Robert_L__Stuck
Explorer C
Maybe SW does not have international flights. However they do provide flights to many destinations from which international flights leave. So we have this problem of how to get 3 each 75 lb. bags to our Intnl. departure destination. And yes, those carriers who do allow the max baggage for any of the ticketed flights do! hassle the passengers, due to lack of knowledge of their job. And not just occasionally. Just went through it less than 2 weeks ago.
SM_Bhagat
Explorer C
C.L. Brown, honey, the carryons ARE limited. Personally, I try never to check. If you don't want to be bumped against, and you will be if you sit in an aisle seat with the baggage compartments above them, book a seat next to the window. I can see that you are a bigot about weight. it's one of the few things that's it's still PC to be bigotted about, and getting worse. I'm beginning to wonder when the lynchings will start. How about big, tall, muscled men? They take up more room than I do. I'm heavy, and I never impinge on the space of the person next to me, but I still get "looks" from people like you. You sound like a really charming person. John, baby equipment is very expensive. Why should anyone want to buy a new stroller, just to travel with on the few times they'd travel with a child young enough to need one. And no, I don't have a baby or a baby stroller, but I did 25 years ago. Fortunately, I remember. And no, I don't generally travel for two weeks at a time (wouldn't that be nice), and I'm not going to use brand X soap, shampoo and conditioner at the motel, and I'm not going to spend my precious time at my destination shopping for them. For crying out loud! Maharder, I don't check my luggage because it takes time I don't have, or want to have, at both ends, gets lost, and gets damaged. And yes, we've had luggage both lost and destroyed (not on SW, however). I spend enough time in the airport without adding to it. The baggage limit should be 100 lbs total, with a possible of 75 lbs in one bag. As I said, I basically never check bags (3 times in the last 10 years), but if I have to, I really don't want to have to have more than one. Kevin's idea about packing a small duffel is good, though, so that you can have it both ways, if need be. Southwest is a good airline to take. I went to Hawaii on Continental, and on a 5 or 6 hour flight, we didn't even get peanuts and the staff was surly both directions. Thank goodness Southwest still cares about its passengers.
Jason_S_
Explorer C
I will be taking my first trip on SW in March. Looking forward to it very much. I am only a leisure traveler, sure dont get to travel as much as I would like. I understand, and dont have a problem with the new baggage limit. My thoughts are about the boarding pass groups-A, B, C, whatever they are. I will be checking in online the 24 hrs. prior, will this give me a seat selection? Will I be able to choose the seat I may or may not want to sit in? Me being a "rookie" flyer I sure like the window seat. I will be traveling with one other person. I guess I dont care if I board last as long as I know the seat I want is there. How does this work?
Harry_Roth
Explorer C
SWA has been very good up till now, while the other domestic carriers, with the exception of Virgin America, are all garbage. AA, United, USAir, Delta, Continental among others-horrible on domestic flights. My hope is that SWA doesn't start to fall into that group by making petty restrictions and changing policy that has worked well through the past 25 or so years. Deregulation has not been a good thing in my opinion and SWA has handled the glut of people now flying pretty well. If your going to change something, a couple of your terminals in California need upgrading very badly. Good job in Oakland, though.
blusk
Aviator C
Darlene, The changes went into effect on January 29 and you were charged correctly. You misread Ming's post. Her post was published on the 31st but she wrotes about the changes that had already gone into effect. Kevin, yes 50 pounds is arbitrary and a 55 pound bag might not hurt a ramper. But we have to draw the line somewhere. If the limit was 75 pounds, someone might make the argument that their bag is only 78 pounds, what is the difference. Or if the limit is 100, why not a bag of 103?
Bill18
Explorer C
Hi Brian, I, too, am wondering why the change in the baggage count allowance? No one likes restrictions and since you said that only 2% of passengers are affected, why does SW lower itself to the other airlines by imposing another restriction? It's not so much that Many people are affected from a practical standpoint, but everyone is affected by the perceived restriction. We feel we are all a little less "Free to roam the country." Thanks for your comment, Bill
Jim20
Explorer C
I fly Southwest several times a year. One of my few complaints is letting people bring large bags onto the plane and try and stuff them in to the overhead bins. I always carry a brief case which winds up scratched by the large bags.
Kevin1
Explorer C
Brian, I don't disagree with you. If you give an inch, they will take a mile. That is why I suggested a per pound charge. If my bag weighs 52 lbs on the airport scale (then I should probably invest in a new scale at home), but charge me $5 and get me on the plane. $25 for 2 lbs? Would that make you happy? To whoever said they would just fly United....check the news, they are now charging for a 2nd bag. That's right a 2nd bag, not a 3rd bag, but a 2nd bag.
stove
Explorer A
ATTN: Jim - 5:11 pm post above. Why isn't your brief case under the seat in front of you instead of in the overhead bin? Put it there and there is ZERO chance of it being scratched - unless you kick it with your feet.
LEROY11
Explorer C
Just found reason # 1,234,567 to fly SWA and not united: United will start charging $100 for SECOND checked bag! Pass the peanuts and lets get going!
LEROY11
Explorer C
My first msg was wrong; united will ONLY charge you $25 to loose your second bag. Read the blog on MSN.
Alicia111
Explorer C
I just read that United will charge for 2nd bag if you are not a elite passenger. Most airlines are 2 bags anyway plus they charge for soft drinks and peanuts Southwest looks pretty good so far
David_Arias
Explorer C
For years I was a Premier Executive on United. Then I found out that American would let you upgrade an international ticket from any fare so I switched to AA (at the time I traveled international often). I quickly became a Platinum flyer on AA and then WHOOSH>>> AA started charging a co-pay to upgrade from any fare but full fare economy. This practice made the upgradeable fare more expensive then UAL's upgradeable fare. And guess what? I switched airlines. To Southwest. WOW... Southwest 2 years ago was like Shangri-La in the air. (Granted they don't fly international). Some of the things that got me to fly Southwest were low airfares, checked baggage allowance of 70 lbs times THREE and the open seating policy. Even if I had to fly to BWI and CNH to get from FTL to LAX. But now with this change why fly Southwest. I am one of the 2 percent that checks 3 bags. I just canceled my flight from LAX to SFO and instead will be flying Virgin America. I can check 1 free bag up to 70 lbs and the second bag is only $10. Since my three bags combined weighed 120 lbs I will be OK. It seems like a lot of work and potential loss of revenue for 2 percent of travelers.
Jodi
Explorer C
I am one of the 2% who fly on Southwest in part due to the baggage policy. There are three main resons I choose Southwest; the competitive fares, the ease of rescheduling and the baggage policy. For the past two years I have endured the indiscriminate pre-boarding and the general "cattle call" boarding policies primarily because I could bring my sporting equipment and check two other bags. I believe this policy change will result in an increase in carry on items, it certainly will for myself, which will compound the aforementioned complaints of too much carry one luggage. It appears it is time to re-evaluate my decision to fly SWA.
SCOTT111
Explorer C
SWA is the Number 1 carrier around! They care about the customer, who care's about the third bag. I have to check three bags at time's, but SWA treat's me right! I feel like family when i fly SWA, not the other carrier's! FLY SOUTHWEST AIRLINE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Michael_Lammers
Explorer C
I've flown Southwest for years, love the simplicity of their policys and their prompt boarding and departures. As a rule for short trips I have one checked and one carry on bag and for longer trips I have 2 checked and one carry on. 50 lbs per checked bag is a reasonable weight limit. For those who want to get more items packed per bag and keep to the weight restrictions simply do some of the following: Do not pack toiletries or liquids that can be purchased inexpensively upon arriving at your destination, minimize the number of shoes you pack, and get high quality soft sided light weight baggage made of treated kevlar or ballistic material that resists cuts, tears, punctures and spills. Good lightweight baggage makes all the difference and easily gives you up to 20 additional lbs to work with when you are checking 2 bags and you will usually find that your stuff is more likely to arrive at your destination on time and unharmed.
B__Scott
Explorer C
All the airlines have a similar statement such as: "The maximum dimensions for a single bag should not exceed sixty-two (62) inches when you add the length + width + height.". But when it comes to measuring my bag, is this the manufacturer's actual stated measurement, or is it a measurement that is taken at the ticket gate when the bag has been stuffed and maybe exceeds 62 inches (but still meets the weight requirement). Should I be keeping all the tags that were attached to my new luggage just to be able to show proof of size? Thanks for any clarification. B. Scott
blusk
Aviator C
Generally speaking, it is the actual size of the bag as it is presented for travel. Brian
Anonymous1693
Explorer C
I agree with Kevin that if you are going to be stringent on the number of bags and weight, I think your gate agents, flight attendants, etc. should also be paying attention and enforcing the size of bags being carried on and stowed in the overhead. It's only fair, though now you might have more bags carried on with this change, especially if people don't want to pay the extra money.
carroll3
Adventurer C
I RECOMMEND 20.00 UMBRELLA STROLLERS FOR AIR TRAVEL, AND JUST BECAUSE YOUR BAG CAN CARRY 80 LBS OF STUFF IN IT DOES NOT MEAN YOU SHOULD. THEY ARE MADE IN CHINA, PUT TOGETHER WITH PLASTIC AND ARE MADE TO CARRY CLOTHING. I HAVE SEEN FROZEN FOOD, TOOLS,BOOKS,ELECTRONICS AND MANY MORE ITEMS THAT ARE SHIPPED IN LUGGAGE AND WHEN THE BAG BREAKS WE GET ACCUSED OF THROWING THE BAGS AROUND. WE ARE NOT THAT STRONG AND WOULD NOT RISK INJURY TO TOSS A 80 LB BAG.
blusk
Aviator C
Folks, one thing a lot of you are forgetting is that the 50 pound limit per bag is not new. We have had that rule in place for at least two years. So nothing has really changed there. Brian
Amy_Jo_Hadlock
Explorer C
I can understand your new policy especially if only 2% use three bags, but the mother who travels with a lap child by herself is now limited to one suitcase if she brings the car seat and stroller. Before the car seat and stroller would not count. So your very much discouraging the mother to fly with her child, since she used to be able to bring three suitcases and now can only bring one. That's impossible, the policy should be revised for the mother traveling alone without a spouse or companion. To have changed the no pre-boarding for mothers and now this, you have a lot of concerned mothers who will fly elsewhere. Please reconsider!