Amtrak’s Witty Take on Southwest Airlines’ New Free Baggage Policy Change

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Amtrak’s Witty Take on Southwest Airlines’ New Free Baggage Policy Change
Southwest Airlines has recently revealed plans to implement a fee for checked baggage, marking an end to its long-standing complimentary policy, which was previously touted by its executives as a significant advantage over competitors in the budget airline sector.

As reported by Reuters, the airline’s decision on Tuesday follows disappointing earnings that prompted a need to modify its business approach. This shift diverges from its previously customer-friendly practices and comes on the heels of last year’s announcement regarding the termination of open seating.

Amtrak Highlights Its Baggage Policy

The US national passenger railroad, Amtrak, showcased its baggage policy on the social media platform X following the airlines’ announcement of their new rules.

Shortly after Southwest’s announcement, Amtrak tweeted, “guess we’re the only ones doing free baggage now,” as reported by Fox Business.

In a subsequent post, the company shared a link to its carry-on luggage policy. According to its official website, each passenger is allowed one personal item and two carry-on items for free, provided they do not exceed weight limits.


Passengers must ensure that their personal items are under 25 lbs (or 12 kg) and within the dimensions of 14x11x7 inches, while each of the two carry-on items can be up to 50 lbs (or 23 kg) and 28x22x14 inches. The company advises that all bags should be labeled with the passenger’s name and address.Also Read : Tiger Woods undergoes surgery for ruptured Achilles tendon; likely to miss major tournaments

Amtrak’s Guidelines for Overweight Bags

Passengers are expected to repack their bags to remain within the 50 lbs weight limit. Additionally, boxes are available at stations for repacking, contrasting with some airlines that impose fees for overweight luggage.

For excess baggage, travelers must pay a $20 fee for each carry-on and personal item that exceeds the specified quantity and size limits. Passengers are allowed two extra bags each.

Fees must be paid at the station; however, for unstaffed locations, fees should be settled onboard the train.

As stated on their website, “If checked baggage is available, you can check two bags through to your final destination free of charge.”

Amtrak’s Viral Social Media Post

Amtrak’s post on X has gained significant traction, amassing over 6.4 million views and 47,000 likes.

In the comments, one user referred to it as a “brilliant ad,” and the company graciously acknowledged the compliment.

Another commenter humorously noted that they could “almost bike faster than taking the train.” Amtrak responded, “Why bike when you can bring your bicycle onboard?”

This engaging interaction is likely to attract more fans to the railroad company.

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FAQs

1. How extensive is the Amtrak network?
Amtrak operates over 30 train routes in the US and parts of Canada, serving more than 500 destinations across 46 states.

2. When will the new Southwest Airlines policy take effect?
The updated policy will apply to flights booked on or after May 28.

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