Southwest Airlines has unveiled its inaugural four airport lounges, marking a significant expansion of the carrier’s premium travel offerings. At the same time, the company is launching a new premium credit card designed to grant exclusive lounge access, representing a broader strategic shift from its historic budget focus toward higher-end travel products.
The first four Southwest lounges are slated for these key hubs:
Which Airports Will Host Southwest Lounges?
Collaborating with Chase, the airline is constructing five new lounges across these primary destinations:
- New Premium Southwest Credit Card Set for 2027
In addition to the lounge rollout, Southwest is rolling out a premium Rapid Rewards® Credit Card partnered with Chase during 2027. The card will award members access to the newly opening lounges, although specifics regarding visit limits, pass eligibility, or guest privileges have not been disclosed.
Current rate information shows competitor premium travel cards typically charge between $395 and $695 annually, illustrating the financial commitment required for elite status benefits.
The new card will join Southwest’s portfolio of premium consumer credit cards, which already includes several tiered travel rewards products.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
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About the Author
Craig Joseph is a NerdWallet credit‑cards and travel‑rewards specialist. He holds degrees in geology from West Virginia University and oceanography from Oregon State University, plus publications across academic journals, newspapers, and blogs. Passionate about personal finance, he aims to boost financial literacy everywhere he encounters people—and he’ll likely argue that rocks are equally fascinating.
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