Southwest Airlines Launches New Routes from Nashville to Albany, Memphis and Tulsa, Expands its Service to San Diego, Tampa and Fort Myers

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Southwest Airlines is expanding its operations with the introduction of new routes from Nashville to Albany, Memphis, and Tulsa. The airline is also reintroducing popular connections to San Diego, Tampa, and Fort Myers as part of its broader growth strategy. These changes will enhance connectivity and provide more travel options for passengers.

According to a media, some of these new routes will include Eugene Airport (EUG) to San Diego International Airport (SAN), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Will Rogers International Airport (OKC) in Oklahoma City, and Omaha Airport (OMA) to San Diego International Airport (SAN). Additionally, Southwest will restart flights from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers and Tampa International Airport (TPA), making these popular destinations accessible once again.

Expansion at Nashville International Airport

In a significant move, Southwest Airlines is further expanding its presence at Nashville International Airport (BNA). The airline will launch new routes to Albany International Airport (ALB), Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN), Memphis International Airport (MEM), and Tulsa International Airport (TUL) in the coming month. Additionally, Southwest will relaunch routes to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) in Providence. These routes are expected to increase connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.

For the Thanksgiving season in late 2025, Southwest will add flights from Nashville (BNA) to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and El Paso International Airport (ELP), making holiday travel more convenient for passengers flying from Nashville.

Southwest’s Shift on Checked Bag Policy

Along with its expansion, Southwest Airlines is introducing significant changes to its long-standing checked bag policy. Starting May 28, 2025, the airline will no longer offer free checked bags for regular fare passengers. Instead, passengers will incur fees for both their first and second checked bags. This marks a departure from Southwest’s traditional “Bags Fly Free” advertising campaign, which the airline had trademarked.

However, Southwest is making an exception for members of its Rapid Rewards A-list and those purchasing business fares, who will continue to enjoy the benefit of free checked baggage.

In a statement, Bob Jordan, President and CEO of Southwest Airlines, explained the change as part of the airline’s strategy to meet current customer needs, attract new customer segments, and achieve higher profitability. “We will do all this while remaining focused on what’s made us strong—our people and the authentic, friendly, and award-winning customer service only they can provide,” Jordan said.

Conclusion

The introduction of these 12 new routes and changes to the checked bag policy signal a pivotal moment for Southwest Airlines, which is aiming to adjust its offerings to meet shifting market dynamics. Travelers will see a more expanded network with convenient options to popular destinations, but also face new costs for checked luggage unless they qualify for exemptions. Southwest’s expansion in Nashville and across other key routes reflects its growth strategy and the evolving needs of its customer base.