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Southwest Airlines overhauls Rapid Rewards program
CNBC • • general
Key Points:
- Southwest Airlines is revamping its loyalty program by eliminating the two-tier A-List and A-List Preferred statuses and introducing three new tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum, effective January 1.
- The new program adjusts qualification thresholds and rewards, with Silver requiring 35,000 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) or 25 flights, Gold requiring 65,000 TQPs or 50 flights, and Platinum requiring 140,000 TQPs or 100 flights, each offering increasing points bonuses and boarding privileges.
- The Companion Pass benefit will be retained for current holders through their term but will require earning TQPs or qualifying flights, milestone rewards, or Platinum status starting in 2027.
- Southwest is expanding its international airline partnerships and launching its first airport lounges, called Icon, in collaboration with Chase, with four locations planned across the U.S.
- These changes follow a broader airline industry trend of raising loyalty program requirements and adjusting benefits, similar to recent updates from United Airlines and others.
