Southwest Airlines is revamping its Rapid Rewards loyalty program starting January 1, 2027, by replacing its two-tier system, A-List and A-List Preferred, with three new tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. This change aligns Southwest’s loyalty program more closely with those of other major carriers and reflects broader shifts at the airline, including ending open seating and beginning to charge for select services once offered for free. The new structure is designed to better reward the airline’s most engaged and highest-spending customers.

Under the new program, A-List members will transition to Silver status, and A-List Preferred members will move to Gold status. A new top-tier Platinum status will be introduced for the most loyal customers. Qualification for these tiers will be determined by Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs), earned primarily through money spent on flights and Southwest co-branded Chase credit cards. Silver status requires 35,000 TQPs or 25 qualifying flights, Gold demands 65,000 TQPs or 50 flights, while Platinum requires 140,000 TQPs or 100 flights.

The revamped program also adjusts benefits across the tiers. For instance, Silver members will see a 40% points-earning bonus on flights, up from 25%, while Gold members will receive a 60% boost, down from the previous 100%. Platinum members will enjoy a 120% bonus and the highest boarding priority, including unlimited Companion Pass trips. Companion Pass criteria are also changing; starting in 2027, earning the pass will require meeting certain TQP or flight thresholds or achieving Platinum status.

Southwest is expanding its rewards ecosystem with new amenities, such as Icon airport lounges in four U.S. cities, developed in partnership with Chase. The airline is also introducing benefits for customers nearing the next status level, such as bonus points or preferred seating coupons. These moves are part of Southwest’s broader strategy to incentivize loyalty and enhance the customer experience while adapting to evolving industry standards seen at airlines like United and American.