Rapid Rewards

Southwest Adds Platinum Tier, Intl. Partners and Starlink WiFi

Dallas -- Starting January 1, 2027, Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards members get a new Platinum tier with unlimited Companion Pass trips, a faster route to status for credit cardholders, and points that work for seats and rental cars. The airline also plans a fleetwide Starlink WiFi rollout and a branded lounge network.

Platinum joins a renamed tier lineup in January 2027

A-List becomes Silver and A-List Preferred becomes Gold. Platinum sits above both and includes unlimited Companion Pass trips. Rapid Rewards keeps its no-blackout-dates policy and points that don't expire. Members can still earn tier status through Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) or qualifying flights.

Southwest Will Pay You Points for Your Phone Notifications

Dallas – October 12, 2026 -- Southwest Airlines is giving Rapid Rewards members a way to turn a cluttered phone screen into free points: upload a screenshot of your homepage notifications and earn between 1,000 and 10,000 points. The offer is part of "Enter Airplane Mode," a new brand campaign aimed at burned-out travelers.

Southwest cites a survey showing 76% of respondents feel burnout

In a Southwest-sponsored survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults aged 18 to 64, conducted in August 2026, 76% said they are experiencing burnout. Another 68% said a trip is one way to regain control of their time. Sabrina Callahan, Southwest's Chief Digital & Marketing Officer, said the campaign encourages customers to turn their "breaking point" into a "booking point."