Southwest Airlines, known for its friendly service and long-standing “bags fly free” policy, recently found itself in hot water after announcing a major change. Starting May 28, 2025, the airline will begin charging for checked bags, ending a 54-year tradition that set it apart from competitors. Facing backlash from loyal customers, the Dallas-based airline decided to inject some humor into the situation—by throwing shade at the Dallas Mavericks.
In a viral Instagram post, Southwest quipped,
“It’s not like we traded Luka… 👀,”
Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an
referencing the Mavericks’ recent blockbuster trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Mavericks’ trade of Dončić, a beloved figure in Dallas sports, remains a sore spot for fans. By invoking the controversial move, Southwest tapped into a shared cultural moment, but not everyone was amused. Comments on the post ranged from playful banter—like Whataburger asking, “Do Whataburger bags still fly free?”—to outright frustration. One user wrote, “This kinda feels like gaslighting lol,” while another called the post “a distraction from a bad decision.”
Southwest’s decision to end its free checked bag policy comes as part of a broader financial restructuring effort. The airline has faced pressure from investors to improve profitability, leading to changes that include layoffs and the introduction of new fare classes. While the company has promised to maintain its signature hospitality, many travelers feel the loss of the “bags fly free” policy marks the end of an era.
As for the Mavericks reference, it may have been a clever attempt to deflect criticism. Whether the joke landed or not, one thing is clear: both Southwest Airlines and the Dallas Mavericks are facing significant scrutiny from their respective fan bases.
