Southwest Airlines unveiled plans for its first-ever airport lounge network. The carrier is partnering with Chase “to bring together Southwest’s signature hospitality and the success of the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network to create a premium and welcoming airport experience,” according to an announcement.
Tony Roach, chief customer & brand officer at Southwest Airlines, said: “Southwest Airlines has built one of the most trusted brands in travel by delivering authentic hospitality that customers value. Our lounges will be a natural extension of that experience, offering customers a place to relax and experience the Southwest brand in a new way. The introduction of a lounge network represents a strategic investment in Rapid Rewards and deepens our 30-year partnership with Chase.”
Construction has begun on the first four Southwest lounges, and the first guests are expected to be welcomed in late 2027. These locations include:
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
- Daniel K. Inouye (Honolulu) International Airport
- Nashville International Airport
This is just the beginning of a broader footprint across the Southwest system, said the announcement, with at least seven more lounges planned to open over the next several years across high-demand business and leisure markets.
A new, premium, Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card issued by Chase will be launching in 2027 and will provide access to the new Southwest lounge network.
