This Airline Is Making A Major Change To Its Loyalty Program In 2027

Commercial airlines are always looking for ways to attract new customers, and one of the ways they do so is through their loyalty programs. These programs reward passengers for flying with a particular airline, offering perks ranging from points redeemable for future flights to priority boarding and better seats. Southwest Airlines, a low-cost carrier based in the United States, has announced major changes to its Rapid Rewards loyalty program for 2027, including a new membership tier, rewards for reaching certain milestones, and more ways to earn and redeem points.

According to a press release published on October 15, 2026, the first changes are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027, with additional benefits rolling out later in the year. If you're someone who frequently flies Southwest and you're a Rapid Rewards member, the overhaul could change not just the perks you receive, but how you qualify for them.

Southwest says the changes are designed to reward customers in "more meaningful ways" moving forward. The carrier has long earned praise for having the "best" customer service in the industry and was once considered one of the most plus-size-friendly airlines. But while the new loyalty program introduces additional benefits and promises more opportunities to earn rewards, it also comes with some trade-offs. From changes to earning bonuses to new Companion Pass qualification requirements, not every update will necessarily work in members' favor.

Southwest Airlines made its debut in 1971 and became known for low ticket prices and an easygoing vibe. But a lot has changed at Southwest recently. After years of advertising free checked bags, the airline began charging many passengers for checked bags in 2025. In January 2026, it switched to assigned seating, and in June, it ended service at Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and Washington Dulles (IAD) airports, leaving travelers with fewer options. Now the airline is updating its loyalty program.

Until now, Rapids Rewards has two elite status tiers: A-List members and A-List Preferred members. Starting on January 1, 2027, there will be three tiers instead of two. Members who have earned A-List status for 2027 will automatically be transferred to the Silver tier, while most A-List Preferred members will move to Gold. A brand-new Platinum level will be the highest tier. However, A-List Preferred members who complete 100 qualifying one-way flights or earn 140,000 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) by December 31, 2026, will move directly to Platinum, with the status lasting through December 31, 2027.

Under the new rules, you will need to earn 35,000 TQPs or take 25 qualifying one-way flights to become a Silver member. To reach Gold, you will need to earn 65,000 TQPs or take 50 qualifying flights. Platinum status requires 140,000 TQPs or 100 qualifying one-way flights. Joining Rapid Rewards is free, but it's important to distinguish between regular Rapid Rewards points and TQPs. While regular points can be redeemed for travel, TQPs count toward elite status and other rewards, and they reset each calendar year. Members can earn TQPs through qualifying Southwest flights and eligible purchases, including spending on Southwest co-branded credit cards. 

Members of Southwest's loyalty program will continue to enjoy many of the same perks they're used to, plus a few extras under the new rules. Silver members will receive Group 1 boarding, one free checked bag, and a complimentary selection of available Standard or Preferred seats at booking. Gold can choose Extra Legroom seats at booking, board before Group 1, and check two bags for free. Platinum members get even earlier boarding, three free checked bags, and a 120% bonus on points earned from qualifying flights. All three tiers include same-day standby, while Gold and Platinum members receive up to two complimentary premium drinks on select flights. One downside for Gold members is that the standard earning bonus drops to 60%, down from A-List Preferred's current 100%. However, members who earn A-List Preferred status for 2027 through 2026 activity will keep that 100% bonus through December 31, 2027. Silver gets a 40% bonus. New Milestone Rewards will also offer benefits before members reach a new tier, starting with a choice of 2,000 points or two Preferred seat certificates at 20,000 TQPs or 15 qualifying one-way flights.

Companion Pass benefits are changing, too. Members who earn 95,000 TQPs or take 75 qualifying flights will get three Companion Pass trips, while Platinum members get unlimited trips. Southwest's separate Companion Pass qualifying points system, however, will be scrapped after December 31, 2026, meaning credit card welcome bonuses and partner spending will no longer count, though existing passes will be honored under their original terms.

Other new perks include the ability to redeem your Rapid Rewards points for car rentals through Southwest's partners beginning in November 2026. In spring 2027, members are expected to earn and redeem points through partnerships with Icelandair, China Airlines, and Etihad Airways. Later in the year, Southwest also plans to let members use points for upgraded seat assignments after booking. The airline is also planning a new premium credit card and airport lounges for 2027.