Southwest Airlines, known for its commitment to excellent customer service, is set to overhaul its Rapid Rewards loyalty program starting January 1, 2027. The changes aim to enhance member experiences by introducing a new membership tier and modifying how customers earn and redeem rewards.
Exciting Changes on the Horizon
In a press release issued on October 15, 2026, Southwest revealed that the revised loyalty program will roll out in phases throughout the year. Frequent flyers will notice significant updates that can influence how they accumulate rewards and the benefits they enjoy as members.
The airline has expressed its desire to reward customers in more meaningful ways. Despite the shift in their loyalty program, Southwest remains a favorite among travelers for its customer service and friendly approach.
Introducing New Membership Tiers
Historically, the Rapid Rewards program featured two elite status levels: A-List and A-List Preferred. Beginning in 2027, a third tier named Platinum will be introduced, adding new dimensions to the program. Existing A-List members will transition to the Silver tier, while most A-List Preferred members will advance to Gold. Notably, A-List Preferred members achieving specific milestones, such as completing 100 qualifying one-way flights or earning 140,000 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) by the end of 2026, will skip directly to the Platinum tier, maintaining that designation throughout 2027.
Achieving tier status will evolve under the new guidelines. To attain Silver status, members will need to earn 35,000 TQPs or complete 25 qualifying one-way flights. Moving up to Gold will require 65,000 TQPs or 50 flights, while the Platinum tier will necessitate 140,000 TQPs or 100 qualifying one-way flights. It's important for members to understand the difference between regular Rapid Rewards points, which can be redeemed for travel, and TQPs, which are crucial for reaching elite status.
Enhanced Benefits for Loyalty Program Members
As part of the new program structure, members will continue to enjoy several long-standing perks along with fresh additions. Silver members will receive Group 1 boarding, one complimentary checked bag, and the option to book either Standard or Preferred seats at no extra cost. Gold members will have access to Extra Legroom seats, the ability to board before Group 1, and two free checked bags. Platinum members will benefit from the earliest boarding times, three complimentary checked bags, and a 120% bonus on points earned from qualifying flights.
With the upcoming changes, all members will still have access to same-day standby capabilities. Additionally, Gold and Platinum members can enjoy up to two complimentary premium drinks on select flights. However, Gold members will face a reduction in their standard earning bonus, which drops to 60% from the previous 100% enjoyed by A-List Preferred members. That said, those maintaining A-List Preferred status as of December 31, 2027, will continue to benefit from the higher earning rate.
A new feature called Milestone Rewards will offer additional incentives for members, granting benefits even before they achieve a new tier status. For instance, members reaching 20,000 TQPs or completing 15 qualifying one-way flights can choose between receiving 2,000 points or two certificates for Preferred seating.
Changes to Companion Pass and Other Highlights
The much-coveted Companion Pass will also see alterations. Members who gain 95,000 TQPs or take 75 qualifying flights will earn three Companion Pass trips, while those at the Platinum level will be eligible for unlimited trips. Notably, the existing system of qualifying points for Companion Pass will be retired after December 31, 2026, meaning incentives from credit card bonuses and partner spending will no longer count towards this status.
Further enhancing the travel experience, beginning in November 2026, members will be able to use their Rapid Rewards points for car rentals through Southwest's partners. Additionally, partnerships with international airlines, including Icelandair and China Airlines, will allow members to earn and redeem points starting in spring 2027. The airline is also working on a new premium credit card and the introduction of airport lounges to debut later in 2027.
Tag: Loyalty Programs
