Southwest Airlines, known for its free checked bag policy, will begin charging for some checked luggage starting May 28.

This is the first time in nearly 54 years since the inception of the company.

It is reported that only the airline’s Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and those booking top-tier Business Select fares will continue to receive two free checked bags.

Frequent flyer A-List members, Southwest credit card holders, and select customers will now be allowed one free checked bag. For all other passengers, Southwest will begin charging for both the first and second checked bags on flights booked on or after May 28.

Additionally, starting May 28, Southwest will add a heavily discounted basic economy fare class that will guarantee a flyer a seat on a plane but will likely come with restrictions similar to other carriers’ basic economy offerings.

Southwest Airline CEO Robert Jordan stated that this strategy is about securing the company’s future.

“We are more than the logo on our plane. Our DNA isn’t open seating, or even bags fly free. It’s a dedication to service,” CBS news reported Jordan saying.

This move reportedly comes as Southwest, the nation’s fourth-largest airline, has been under intense pressure to improve its financial performance after struggling to keep pace with changing customer preferences post-pandemic.