Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) has unveiled a series of exciting enhancements to its acclaimed Rapid Rewards® program.
These updates are designed to further reward the airline’s dedicated Members by simplifying the process of earning tier status, introducing complimentary premium drinks for A-List Preferred Members, and providing the flexibility to pay for flights using a mix of cash and Rapid Rewards® points.
Jonathan Clarkson, Vice President of Marketing at Southwest Airlines, shared the company’s enthusiasm for these changes, stating, “We’re elevating our esteemed Rapid Rewards program by introducing these enhancements. Our aim is to make it even more straightforward for our Members to earn and relish their benefits. By adjusting the tier prerequisites and amplifying credit card spend’s impact on tier requirements, we’re fostering a deeper connection with our brand and co-branded credit cards. All the while, we’re preserving the fundamental program values that our Customers cherish, such as unlimited reward seats, absence of blackout dates, and non-expiring points.”
Here’s a breakdown of the enhancements:
Quicker A-List Status Achievement: From Jan. 1, 2024, Rapid Rewards™ Members can attain A-List status by either undertaking 20 one-way qualifying flights (down from 25) or accumulating 35,000 tier qualifying points.
Accelerated A-List Preferred Status Achievement: Starting Jan. 1, 2024, Members can secure A-List Preferred status by either completing 40 one-way qualifying flights (previously 50) or garnering 70,000 tier qualifying points.
Enhanced Tier Qualifying Points with Southwest Rapid Rewards™ Credit Cards: From Jan. 1, 2024, Credit Cardmembers will be awarded 1,500 tier qualifying points for every $5,000 spent (previously $10,000) using specific Rapid Rewards Credit Cards from Chase.
Complimentary Premium Drinks for A-List Preferred Members: Effective Nov. 6, 2023, A-List Preferred Members will be entitled to up to two complimentary premium beverages per flight, directly added to their mobile boarding passes.
Cash + Points Redemption Option: In spring 2024, Members will have the choice to pay for their flights using a blend of cash and points, initiating with a minimum of 1,000 points.
Southwest’s Rapid Rewards™ program is built on the principle of simplifying the reward flight earning process. With no blackout dates, non-expiring points, and every seat being a reward seat, the program stands out in the industry. To join Rapid Rewards, interested Customers can sign up at Southwest.com.
