Southwest Airlines has been in the news a LOT recently in the past year or so, and not always for the best reasons. We’re warning you now — there’s ANOTHER change hitting this airline, but you may be happier with this one than some of the others.

Southwest Airlines at MCO

Earlier this year, it was announced that new Southwest lounges are on the way, which is great for customers who stayed loyal to them throughout the controversial changes that came before, which consisted of changing their open seating policy and getting rid of free checked bags. This new update, however, is more of a positive one, depending on how you look at it — Southwest Airlines is completely revamping their Rapid Rewards membership.

The next evolution of Southwest Airlines’ award-winning Rapid Rewards program is here, and it features Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers, new Milestone Rewards to earn to get your towards status, more opportunities for Companion Pass trips, and a faster path to tier status for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers.

©Southwest

Beginning in January 2027, Rapid Rewards will continue to offer the benefits that members love about it, including no blackout dates, points that don’t expire, and flexible options to earn tier status through both Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) and qualifying flights. These changes are just adding new perks to various tiers. The highest status will be Platinum, which will come with an Unlimited Companion Pass.

Southwest Airlines

As for Silver and Gold tiers, A-List will become Silver and A-List Preferred will become Gold. Additionally, Members will no longer have to wait until reaching a new tier to receive rewards, because Southwest is adding Milestone Rewards along a Member’s tier journey. Before Members reach Silver status, they’ll be able to select rewards like Rapid Rewards points or seat certificates, and between Gold and Platinum tiers, Members can qualify to receive three Companion Pass trips.

Southwest Airplanes

Every Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember, including Plus Cardmembers, will also earn one TQP for every dollar spent on purchases with a Rapid Rewards Credit Card from Chase, giving cardmembers a faster way to earn status. As for how you use your Rapid Rewards points, beginning in Spring 2027, Members will be able to earn and redeem Rapid Rewards points for travel through new international airline loyalty partnerships, which will begin with Icelandair, China Airlines, and Etihad Airways. Later on in 2027, Rapid Rewards Members will also be able to use points for seat selection on Southwest-operated flights, including Extra Legroom and Preferred seats. However, beginning this year, in November 2026, Members can redeem Rapid Rewards points for rental cars across all participating car rental partners directly through the Southwest rental cars website.

Southwest Planes at Orlando International Airport

Don’t forget that the new Southwest Icon Lounge network, in partnership with Chase, is arriving in late 2027, which will be another great perk for Cardmembers. In Fall 2027, Southwest will also begin to have some of the fastest wifi in the sky, thanks to Starlink, which will be free for Rapid Rewards members. Want to see some of our best travel tips before you fly for your trip? Check out our video below!

We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney news, so stay tuned to DFB!

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How do you feel about these changes? Tell us in the comments!