Southwest Airlines is expanding its Rapid Rewards program with new elite status tiers, milestone rewards and additional ways to use points, giving frequent flyers more opportunities to earn benefits throughout their travel journey.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, the airline will replace its A-List and A-List Preferred tiers with Silver and Gold, and introduce a new Platinum tier featuring unlimited Companion Pass trips. Southwest will also add rewards members can earn before reaching status and accelerate the path to tier status for all Rapid Rewards credit cardmembers.
Rapid Rewards will retain existing program features, including no blackout dates, points that do not expire and the ability to qualify for tier status through Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) or qualifying flights.
Southwest Adds a New Platinum Tier
According to the airline, A-List members will become Silver and A-List Preferred members will become Gold. The new Platinum tier will sit above Silver and Gold and include unlimited Companion Pass trips. Southwest will also introduce Milestone Rewards, allowing members to earn benefits before reaching a new status tier.
Credit Cardmembers Get a Faster Path to Status
All Rapid Rewards credit cardmembers, including Plus cardholders, will earn one TQP for every dollar spent on eligible purchases with a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card.
In addition, Southwest will expand Rapid Rewards beyond its own flights with new international airline loyalty partnerships. Members will be able to earn and redeem points for travel through Icelandair, China Airlines and Etihad Airways.
Beginning in November 2026, they can use Rapid Rewards points to book rental cars through Southwest’s car rental website. Later in 2027, the airline plans to let members redeem points for seat selection on Southwest-operated flights, including Extra Legroom and Preferred seats.
For more information, visit swa.com.
