From The Points Guy · Sean Cudahy · · 2m
Southwest Airlines Overhauls Rapid Rewards Loyalty Program
Southwest Airlines introduces new elite tiers, credit card rewards, and international partner awards for Rapid Rewards in 2027.
In brief
Southwest Airlines introduces new elite tiers, credit card rewards, and international partner awards for Rapid Rewards in 2027. Southwest Airlines launches Silver, Gold, and Platinum loyalty tiers in 2027 with updated credit card points, Companion Pass access, and international redemption options. Originally reported…
Southwest Announces Rapid Rewards Overhaul
Southwest Airlines will introduce new elite status tiers and credit card rewards for its Rapid Rewards loyalty program starting in 2027.
New Elite Tiers Replace A-List
A-List and A-List Preferred will become Silver and Gold, with a new Platinum tier offering unlimited Companion Pass access.
Credit Card Points Increase
All Southwest credit card holders will earn 1 tier qualifying point per dollar spent starting January 1, 2027.
Companion Pass Changes
The Companion Pass will require 100 qualifying flights to unlock, with a new TQP threshold of 140,000 points in 2027.
Phasing Out Companion Pass Shortcut
Credit card sign-up bonuses no longer count toward earning the Companion Pass starting in 2027.
Milestone Rewards for Members
Rapid Rewards members can earn 2,000 bonus points or two preferred seat coupons after 15 flights or 20,000 TQPs.
New International Redemptions
Southwest will launch partner redemptions on Icelandair, Etihad Airways, and China Airlines starting in 2027.
Starlink Wi-Fi Expansion
Southwest plans to install Starlink Wi-Fi on its entire fleet by fall 2027, becoming the first U.S. airline to do so.
Icon Lounges Launch
Southwest will open Icon Lounges in Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu, and Nashville starting in late 2027.
Points Earning Changes
Choice Preferred fares will earn 8 points per dollar spent, Choice Extra will earn 10 points per dollar spent in 2027.
Gold Members Get Reduced Bonus
Gold members will earn a 60% points bonus on flights, down from the current 100% bonus for A-List Preferred members.
Platinum Tier Benefits
Platinum members get 120% points bonus on flights and unlimited Companion Pass access with up to three free checked bags.
2027 Status Qualification
Silver requires 25 flights or 35,000 TQPs; Gold requires 50 flights or 65,000 TQPs; Platinum requires 100 flights or 140,000 TQPs.
Event Date
Southwest Airlines will implement all changes starting January 1, 2027.
The main idea
Southwest Airlines launches Silver, Gold, and Platinum loyalty tiers in 2027 with updated credit card points, Companion Pass access, and international redemption options.
