Summary
In 2025, several changes have occurred in U.S. travel rules. These changes include airlines not having to provide mandatory compensation for controllable delays and new policies on baggage fees and enforcement by different airlines.
Key Facts
- In September 2025, the plan requiring airlines to compensate passengers for controllable flight delays was dropped by the Trump administration.
- The Department of Transportation had proposed airlines provide compensation for delays due to issues they can control, but the proposal was withdrawn.
- Airlines are responsible for setting their own compensation policies, which vary.
- American Airlines removed bag sizers to help speed up boarding; gate agents now decide if a bag needs to be checked.
- Southwest Airlines ended its "Bags Fly Free" policy, introducing fees for checked bags from May 28, 2025.
- Passengers with a Southwest credit card or A-List status still get one free checked bag.
- Spirit Airlines is offering two free checked bags, but only for some passengers.
