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Southwest announces major loyalty shake
The Points Guy • • business
Key Points:
- Southwest Airlines is revamping its Rapid Rewards loyalty program in 2027, replacing "A-List" and "A-List Preferred" with "Silver" and "Gold," and introducing a new top-tier "Platinum" status that includes unlimited Companion Pass access.
- Starting in 2027, Southwest credit card holders will earn 1 tier qualifying point (TQP) per dollar spent, making it easier to achieve elite status through everyday purchases.
- The airline is launching partner award redemptions on international carriers Icelandair, Etihad Airways, and China Airlines, allowing Rapid Rewards points to be used for long-haul international flights beginning next year.
- Southwest will introduce milestone rewards, such as bonus points and one-off Companion Passes, to incentivize members before reaching elite status tiers.
- Additional updates include the debut of "Icon Lounges" in select airports starting in 2027, accessible via a new premium credit card, and the fleetwide rollout of Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi on all Southwest planes by fall 2027.
