Southwest Airlines to Revise Free Baggage Policy
In a significant shift from its longstanding tradition, Southwest Airlines will discontinue its “bags fly free” policy beginning in May. This move requires passengers to pay for checked baggage for the first time in decades, marking a notable change in the airline’s pricing strategy.
Overview of Frequent Flyer Program Rankings
Frequent flyer programs play a vital role in the airline experiences of many travelers. A recent analysis released by WalletHub has provided insights into which of the major U.S. carriers offer the most advantageous loyalty programs for 2025. The study evaluated ten of the biggest U.S. airlines based on nearly twenty metrics, focusing on aspects such as:
- Membership rewards and perks
- Miles expiration policies
- Achievability of elite status
- Booking blackout dates
- Retroactive flight credits
- Value of reward points and miles
Top Frequent Flyer Programs for 2025
The following are the standout frequent flyer programs based on WalletHub’s comprehensive analysis:
1. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan
The Alaska Mileage Plan has been recognized as the best frequent flyer program for the second consecutive year. Its structure and benefits cater well to both casual and frequent travelers.
2. United Airlines MileagePlus
United Airlines’ MileagePlus program received high marks particularly for its wide destination coverage, enhancing its appeal to travelers seeking connectivity.
3. Delta Air Lines SkyMiles
Delta’s SkyMiles program ranks among the top tiers, offering rewarding experiences for its loyal customers.
4. Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles
Hawaiian Airlines’ loyalty program stands out for its strong rewards value and appealing membership status benefits, making it attractive to its travelers.
5. American Airlines AAdvantage
The AAdvantage program from American Airlines is recognized for its expansive airline network, which covers an extensive range of domestic and international destinations.
Noteworthy Insights from the Analysis
The latest findings from WalletHub disclose that Hawaiian Airlines, along with JetBlue Airways and Spirit Airlines, are the only carriers whose frequent flyer rewards value increased compared to last year.
Market Trends and Traveler Preferences
Amid the industry’s evolution, a survey by Airlines for America highlighted that for American adults, loyalty programs rank as the fifth most important factor when selecting flights among various airlines, with ticket prices topping the list at over 50% response rates.
As Southwest Airlines’ policy change comes into effect, travelers will likely consider these factors deeply in their travel planning. While the rewards landscape of frequent flyer programs continues to evolve, programs like Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan exemplify the best of what these benefits can offer.
For comprehensive insights and updates, visit the original report by Live Now Fox and WalletHub’s detailed analysis.
