Southwest Airlines has announced new benefits for Southwest Business set to arrive in the coming months.
The newly transformed low-cost carrier plans to introduce Business Priority and New Distribution Capability (NDC) connectivity for corporate travel programs, providing day-of-travel assistance for business travelers and giving partners greater flexibility and choice to access Southwest flights through participating third-party booking tools.
Southwest’s new Business Priority product will become an option for inclusion in corporate travel agreements for qualified customers starting early next year. Highlights will include access to preferred reaccommodation, standby, and other boarding benefits for added flexibility and peace of mind for day of travel.
Meanwhile, the carrier is also introducing NDC capabilities, with the new direct-connect option expected to be available to partners by the end of 2026.
Southwest has tapped Amadeus Altéa NDC to provide personalized and enriched offers to travelers through the third parties of their choice, including the Amadeus Travel Platform, with that option slated to be available later in 2027.
Southwest Airlines plane landing at Baltimore/Washington International Airport. (Photo Credit: Patrick Clarke)
"Southwest is focused on elevating the travel experience to meet the expectations of today’s and tomorrow’s business Customers through initiatives like assigned and Extra Legroom seating, cabin upgrades, including in-seat power, Starlink ultra-fast WiFi, larger overhead bins, and international partnerships," the airline's Vice President of Sales, Aileen Furlong, said in a statement.
"And Southwest Business is building on that by making it easier for corporate buyers to access these enhancements through expanded distribution options and priority travel from booking to boarding," said Furlong.
Return of Companion Pass
Southwest also announced the return of its popular Companion Pass promotion this week.
Available for Rapid Rewards members, eligible customers can designate their companion and travel with unlimited usage on qualifying flights from January 5 through March 3, 2027.
To qualify, members must register for the promotion and purchase a Southwest revenue flight (one qualifying round trip or two qualifying one-ways) using their Rapid Rewards points, a combination of cash and points, or any other eligible form of payment by August 6, 2026, for travel through November 18, 2026.
"The Companion Pass is one of the most valued benefits in travel, and this promotion makes it easier than ever for both new and existing Customers to experience the value of Rapid Rewards," said Nandika Suri, Vice President of Rapid Rewards.
"Whether you're enrolling for the first time or have been a Member for years, this offer provides a simple and rewarding way to earn a promotional Companion Pass and share your next adventure with someone special," added Suri.
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