Southwest to revamp Rapid Rewards and open four airport lounges

Southwest Airlines is changing the structure of its Rapid Rewards loyalty programme, with the new framework taking effect on 1 January 2027. Existing A-List status becomes Silver and A-List Preferred becomes Gold. A third level, Platinum, is being added and will include unlimited Companion Pass trips.

The airline is also introducing Milestone Rewards, which let members choose benefits before they reach a new tier. Before reaching Silver, members can pick rewards such as points or seat certificates. Between Gold and Platinum, they can qualify for three Companion Pass trips.

Partner earning and redemption is due to start in spring 2027, when members will be able to use points on travel with Icelandair, Etihad Airways and China Airlines. Holders of a Rapid Rewards credit card will earn one tier qualifying point per dollar spent from January. Southwest says members will later be able to spend points on seat selection on its own flights.

Separately, from November this year, points can be redeemed for rental cars through the programme's rental car partners.

The carrier also gave more detail on its airport lounges, which are scheduled to open next year in Nashville, Austin, Baltimore and Honolulu in partnership with Chase. The group of locations will be branded the Southwest Icon Lounge network, the airline said.