
An expert recently criticized Southwest Airlines for employing “psychological tricks” in its pricing strategy—highlighting tactics like advertising lower base fares while unbundling services such as checked bags and seat selection. These deliberate design choices tap into human decision-making biases, making the base fare appear more appealing even as hidden fees add up, ultimately nudging passengers toward extras they might not have planned to purchase. It raises the question: have you noticed these kinds of pricing nudges when booking with Southwest or other airlines—and did they steer you into paying more than expected?