Dallas -- Starting January 1, 2027, Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards members get a new Platinum tier with unlimited Companion Pass trips, a faster route to status for credit cardholders, and points that work for seats and rental cars. The airline also plans a fleetwide Starlink WiFi rollout and a branded lounge network.

Dallas – October 12, 2026 -- Southwest Airlines will open its first-ever airport lounges in late 2027, starting at four U.S. airports, with access tied to a new premium credit card.

Four airports get lounges first, with seven more to follow

Construction has begun on the first four lounges. They are located at Austin-Bergstrom International, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall, Daniel K. Inouye (Honolulu) International, and Nashville International.