Southwest announces major overhaul of loyalty program

Key Points:

• Southwest Airlines is revamping its loyalty program starting January 1, 2027, renaming A-List status to Silver, A-List Preferred to Gold, and introducing a new Platinum tier with unlimited Companion Pass trips.
• Members can earn perks as they progress through status levels, with Silver members choosing rewards like Rapid Rewards points or seat certificates, and those between Gold and Platinum earning additional Companion Pass trips.
• Rapid Rewards credit card holders will earn Tier Qualifying Points on eligible purchases, accelerating their path to elite status, while points redemption options will expand to include travel with partner airlines, seat selections, and rental cars.
• Southwest plans to open its first airport lounges, Southwest Icon Lounges, in late 2027 through a Chase partnership, accessible via a new premium credit card launching the same year.
• The airline will also equip its fleet with Starlink Wi-Fi by fall 2027, offering free Wi-Fi to Rapid Rewards members where available, as part of broader efforts to enhance premium customer experiences.