Southwest Airlines Overhauls Flexibility with Powerful New Rule That Limits Flight Credit Validity Based on Fare Type

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Southwest Airlines is implementing another major change in 2025, further redefining its long-established reputation for passenger-friendly policies. After discontinuing its hallmark free checked bag benefit and introducing assigned seating, the airline is now adding expiration dates to its flight credits—a move that marks a definitive break from its flexible past.

Hoʻomaka E 28, 2025, Southwest flight credits will no longer last indefinitely. Instead, new credits issued from bookings or changes made on or after that date will come with fixed expiration timelines. Any credits issued before that date will still retain their lifetime validity, offering one final chance for travelers to benefit from the previous policy.

What’s Changing with Flight Credits

Under the revised rules, flight credit validity will depend on the fare type:

• He ʻumikūmālua mahina for standard fares
• ʻEono mahina for basic fares under the Makemake e ha'alele waeʻano

Transferability is also being scaled back. Only select fare types—Makemake e ha'alele hou, Kekahi manawa, a Koho Pāʻoihana—will allow a one-time transfer of flight credit between two Southwest Rapid Rewards members. The basic Makemake e ha'alele fare will no longer support credit transfers at all.

This change effectively ends the airline’s once-celebrated flexibility, which allowed travelers to bank flight credits indefinitely and use them whenever needed.

Southwest Transitions to a New Travel Model

Southwest’s recent updates mark a fundamental shift in its travel model. Once known for leading the industry with perks like two free checked bags, no change fees, and timeless flight credits, the carrier is now stepping into a more structured approach to pricing and benefits.

The addition of expiration dates to flight credits is designed to streamline operations and align Southwest more closely with the practices of other major airlines. While the move may appeal to travelers looking for modern features and fare variety, it also distances the airline from its legacy of simplified, customer-first service.

Plan Ahead Before the Deadline

Travelers still holding or planning to earn Southwest flight credits should pay close attention to the E 28, 2025 deadline. Booking or modifying travel before this date will ensure that flight credits remain non-expiring. Afterward, all credits issued will be subject to the new expiration terms based on fare class.

With these ongoing changes, Southwest Airlines is redefining how it serves modern travelers. As the carrier updates its services and benefits, passengers are encouraged to review fare terms carefully and make adjustments ahead of time to avoid losing out on unused credits.

This transition highlights the evolving nature of airline loyalty and flexibility in 2025, with Southwest pivoting toward a more conventional—but still competitive—air travel experience.