Does Southwest's Acquisition of AirTran Mean its Fees Will Change?

Q: Couldn't help but notice that by purchasing AirTran, Southwest now owns an airline that charges bag fees, something Southwest has refused to do. Does this mean Southwest will be changing its policy?

A: In a word, no. Sure, it was strange to see Southwest, which loves to boast "Bags Fly Free," acquire an airline that charges for the privilege. But Southwest execs made it clear right off the bat that most of its policies, including those two free checked bags, will remain. The airline has no plans to adopt AirTran's business-class seating or assigned seat assignments, choosing instead to stick with its' tried-and-true single-class, cattle call approach.