Southwest Airlines has announced a comprehensive update to its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, introducing new elite status levels and expanded ways to earn benefits starting in 2027. The changes come as the carrier continues a broader shift that includes assigned seating and paid checked bags. Frequent flyers will see adjustments in how they qualify for status and redeem points, with credit card spending playing a larger role. The details were outlined in a recent announcement from the Dallas-based airline ([1]).
Credit Cards Gain Stronger Role in Status
Beginning January 1, 2027, every Southwest-branded credit card will award one tier qualifying point for each dollar spent. This marks a shift from the current setup, where not all cards contribute to status and none provide a full point per dollar. The update applies even to the entry-level Rapid Rewards Plus card, which previously offered no tier qualifying points. As a result, everyday spending on these cards will help members progress toward elite benefits more directly than before. The move aligns with how other major carriers tie card activity to status qualification. It gives cardholders a clearer path to maintain or reach higher tiers without relying solely on flight activity. Southwest has positioned the change as an incentive for members to consolidate spending on its co-branded cards.
Elite Status Labels Shift to Silver, Gold and Platinum
The familiar A-List and A-List Preferred designations will be replaced by Silver and Gold tiers. A new Platinum level will sit at the top. Qualification thresholds will adjust in 2027, with some requirements increasing for flights while others ease slightly on the points side. A comparison of the updated requirements shows the following:
| Tier | 2027 Qualification | Previous Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Silver | 25 flights or 35,000 TQPs | 20 flights or 35,000 TQPs |
| Gold | 50 flights or 65,000 TQPs | 40 flights or 70,000 TQPs |
| Platinum | 100 flights or 140,000 TQPs | 100 flights or 135,000 TQPs (Companion Pass level) |
Most existing benefits tied to the prior tiers will carry over to the new labels. Members who reach Platinum will receive an unlimited Companion Pass along with up to three free checked bags.
Companion Pass and Milestone Perks Expand
The Companion Pass will now tie directly to Platinum status rather than a separate points metric. Members will qualify through the same tier qualifying points used for elite status. A one-time 10,000-point boost at the 130,000 mark will make the top tier temporarily more attainable in 2027. Between status levels, new milestone rewards will appear. Reaching 15 flights or 20,000 tier qualifying points unlocks either 2,000 bonus points or two preferred seat coupons. At 75 flights or 95,000 tier qualifying points, members receive three one-time Companion Pass trips. These interim benefits provide value on the way to higher status. The airline is also phasing out the separate Companion Pass Qualifying Points category. All Companion Pass earning will flow through the standard tier qualifying points system.
Partner Redemptions and Additional Updates
Rapid Rewards points will become redeemable on partner airlines beginning in 2027. Initial partners include Icelandair, Etihad Airways and China Airlines, opening routes to Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Additional partners are expected in the future. Southwest also confirmed plans for its new Icon Lounges, with the first locations opening in Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu and Nashville in 2027. Access will require a new premium credit card. The carrier further announced that Starlink Wi-Fi will be installed across its entire fleet by fall 2027, making it the first U.S. airline to achieve full coverage. These adjustments reflect Southwest’s ongoing effort to align its loyalty structure with industry standards while preserving core elements like the Companion Pass. Members planning travel in 2027 and beyond will benefit from reviewing the new qualification paths and card earning rates to maximize their benefits.
