Southwest Airlines Overhauls Loyalty Program With Three New Tiers

Southwest Airlines will overhaul its Rapid Rewards loyalty program on January 1, replacing the existing two-tier A-List and A-List Preferred system with three levels: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The restructuring aims to increase revenue and reward high-spending customers through a more granular status hierarchy.

Silver status requires 35,000 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) or 25 flights, while Gold requires 65,000 TQPs or 50 flights. The new Platinum tier, the highest level, requires 140,000 TQPs or 100 flights and grants members the highest boarding priority and unlimited Companion Pass trips. Starting in 2027, the airline will transition Companion Pass benefits to be earned via TQPs, qualifying flights, or Platinum status.

Beyond status changes, the airline is introducing milestone rewards for customers between tiers, such as preferred seat coupons. In partnership with Chase, Southwest is also launching Icon airport lounges in four U.S. cities. Nandika Suri, head of the Rapid Rewards program, described the changes as a way to recognize and reward customers faster and more frequently.