As a lifelong, loyal Southwest Airlines customer, this emerging shift in policies has become a topic of great concern for me. From cradle to now, every domestic journey I've embarked on has been with Southwest Airlines. But the impending introduction of extractive practices such as seat selection costs, baggage fees, and expiring flight credits are a blow to my continued patronage. These changes are exploiting fellow customers like me - those of us who value Southwest Airlines for its generous policies and remarkable service.

It's pertinent to note that Southwest Airlines has built its reputation and loyal customer base by not charging fees for two checked bags, offering no-change fees and retaining its open seating policy (Airfare Watchdog). It's the only U.S. airline that does not charge bag fees for the first two checked bags (CNN). This commitment to affordable, customer-friendly service has led it to achieve the highest overall score among low-cost carriers in the J.D. Power 2020 North America Airline Satisfaction Study.

By introducing these extractive practices, Southwest Airlines is jeopardizing this earned trust and customer satisfaction. It's not just about the additional costs, but the additional emotional toll and disappointment for the customers who have always valued Southwest’s simplicity and transparency.

Therefore, we call upon Southwest Airlines to rethink these changes to their policy and to continue their commitment to customer satisfaction and loyalty. We believe in the Southwest Airlines that assured us no hidden costs and reliable services. We urge Southwest Airlines to reject these profit-driven practices, instead embracing their long-standing maxim of Customers First. Sign this petition, let's urge Southwest Airlines to hold fast to their customer-centric ethics, a core reason so many of us have supported them over the years.