For the first time in its history, Southwest Airlines is entering the airport lounge business, with plans to open its first lounges in four U.S. cities next year.
The airline announced Wednesday that it will debut lounges in 2027 at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu and Nashville International Airport.
Southwest says the initial locations are just the beginning, with at least seven additional lounges expected to open over the next several years.
The Dallas-based airline is partnering with Chase to develop the lounges. Access will be tied to a new Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card issued by Chase, which is also expected to launch in 2027.
The move brings Southwest closer to competitors such as American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which already provide lounge access to travelers who carry certain affiliated credit cards.
The lounge rollout is the latest in a series of major changes at Southwest as the airline moves away from some of the policies that have long distinguished it from other U.S. carriers.
Earlier this year, Southwest transitioned to assigned seating, replacing its longtime open-seating system and boarding process.
The airline also ended its longstanding free checked-bag policy in 2025. Under the new fee structure, many customers are charged $35 for their first checked bag and $45 for a second.
Together, the changes mark a significant shift for Southwest as it adopts more of the products, fees and premium travel offerings that have become standard among its major competitors.
