Stuart Varney and Ashley Webster explain why Gen Z and millennial travelers are arriving hours early at airports. Ashley Webster highlights a trend of using credit card perks to access airport lounges and enjoy free drinks, meals and Wi-Fi.
Southwest Airlines is revamping its loyalty program, adding new top-tier status with unlimited Companion Pass travel and giving travelers more ways to earn and redeem points.
Starting January 1, 2027, Southwest’s current A-List status will become Silver and A-List Preferred will become Gold. The airline is also introducing a new Platinum tier above the two, according to a press release issued Thursday.
Platinum members will receive unlimited Companion Pass travel, allowing them to bring a designated companion on Southwest-operated flights.
Travelers will also be able to unlock perks as they progress to a higher status level.
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Beginning January 1, 2027, Southwest’s current A-List status will become Silver and A-List Preferred will become Gold. (Kevin Carter/Getty Images)
Members working toward Silver can choose rewards like Rapid Rewards points or seat certificates, while those between Gold and Platinum can earn three Companion Pass trips, according to Southwest.
South West credit card holders will also benefit from a faster path to status.
Starting in January, Rapid Rewards credit cardholders will earn one tier qualifying point for every dollar spent on eligible purchases.
The airline is also expanding how travelers can use their Rapid Rewards points.
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Platinum members will receive unlimited Companion Pass travel, allowing them to bring a designated companion on Southwest-operated flights. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
Starting in spring 2027, members will be able to earn and redeem points for travel through new partnerships with Icelandair, China Airlines and Etihad Airways.
Later in 2027, travelers will be able to use their points to pay for seat selections on Southwest flights, including Extra Legroom and Preferred seats.
| Teleprinter | Security | Last | Change | Change % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LUV | SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. | 40.83 | +1.49 | +3.79% |
Members will also be able to redeem points for rental cars starting in November 2026.
The changes come as part of a broader effort by Southwest to offer more premium benefits.
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The airline announced plans last month to open its first airport lounge network. (Southwest Airlines)
Southwest announced plans last month to launch its first airport lounge network, called Southwest Icon Lounges, starting in late 2027 through a partnership with Chase.
Access will be available through a new premium Southwest credit card launching in 2027.
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Southwest also plans to bring Starlink Wi-Fi to its entire fleet by fall 2027, with free Wi-Fi available to Rapid Rewards members when offered.
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