Southwest Airlines Just Changed the Game: Travelers Must Act Fast Before Flight Credits Expire Forever

Your Unused Southwest Credits Could Vanish – Here’s What You Must Know

Southwest Airlines is shaking up its flight credit policies, leaving travelers scrambling to use their unused funds before they disappear. The airline recently announced that flight credits tied to its "Basic" fares will now expire after just 12 months – a major shift from its previous open-ended policy. For frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike, this means swift action is required to protect hard-earned travel dollars.

What’s Changing?

• 12-Month Expiration: Credits from non-refundable "Basic" fares now expire one year from the original booking date.
• No More Extensions: Unlike past policies, these credits won’t be eligible for renewal.
• Hobby Airport Impact: Houston’s Hobby Airport, a major Southwest hub, sees thousands of affected travelers.
• Digital Tracking Required: Passengers must actively monitor expiration dates via Southwest’s app or website.

How to Avoid Losing Your Credits

1. Check Your Account Now: Log in to Southwest’s portal to review unused credits and deadlines.
2. Book Before the Cutoff: Even if travel plans are uncertain, reserve a flight to lock in value.
3. Consider Upgrades: Applying credits toward pricier flexible fares may offer longer expiration windows.
4. Set Calendar Alerts: Mark expiration dates 30 days in advance as a safety net.

Why This Matters Beyond Houston

While Houston’s Hobby Airport serves as a key operational base for Southwest, this policy shift impacts all flyers nationwide. Industry analysts suggest other airlines may follow suit, eroding one of the last consumer-friendly perks in budget air travel. With rising fares and shrinking flexibility, passengers face mounting pressure to maximize every dollar.

What Do You Think?

• Should airlines be required to clearly display credit expiration terms during booking?
• Is a 12-month window fair, or should unused credits convert to airline miles?
• Would you support government regulation preventing credit expiration?
• Are budget airlines becoming "too cheap to be fair" with hidden policies?