Southwest Airlines to overhaul Rapid Rewards with new tiers and partners

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) announced a series of changes to its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, set to take effect beginning January 1, 2027, according to a company press release.

The airline will replace its existing A-List and A-List Preferred tiers with a three-tier structure named Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The new Platinum tier, sitting above the other two, will include unlimited Companion Pass trips. The airline is also introducing Milestone Rewards, which allow members to select benefits such as points or seat certificates before reaching Silver status.

Starting January 1, 2027, all Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers, including Plus Cardmembers, will earn one Tier Qualifying Point per dollar spent on purchases made with a Rapid Rewards Credit Card issued by Chase.

In Spring 2027, members will be able to earn and redeem points through new international airline loyalty partnerships with Icelandair, China Airlines, and Etihad Airways. Beginning in November 2026, members can redeem points for rental cars through Southwest's car rental portal. Later in 2027, points will also be redeemable for seat selection, including Extra Legroom and Preferred seats.

Southwest also announced the Southwest Icon Lounge network, developed in partnership with Chase, with the first location expected at Nashville International Airport in late 2027. Access will be available through a new premium Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card to be launched in 2027.

The airline said it expects to complete a fleetwide rollout of Starlink satellite internet by fall 2027, which it claims would make it the first major U.S. airline to do so. Wi-Fi remains free for Rapid Rewards members through a partnership with T-Mobile.

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