One of Southwest Airlines' top selling points for many customers was its unique decision to offer free checked bags to passengers for years. At a time when many airline passengers increasingly feel hammered by hidden fees,

Starting on Wednesday, the Dallas-based carrier will charge customers $35 for their first checked bag and $45 for their second checked bag. The bag fee change will also apply to existing flight itineraries changed on or after May 28, Southwest confirmed to "Good Morning America."