Southwest Airlines Reveals Plans for First-Ever Airport Lounges

Image: Southwest Airlines plane landing at Baltimore/Washington International Airport. (Photo Credit: Patrick Clarke)
Image: Southwest Airlines plane landing at Baltimore/Washington International Airport. (Photo Credit: Patrick Clarke)
Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 11:05 AM ET, Wed September 2, 2026

Southwest Airlines is partnering with Chase to launch its first-ever airport lounge network.

Debuting in 2027, each lounge promises travelers "sophisticated design, locally-inspired dining, high-quality amenities, and valuable travel benefits that are offered today in the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network," the Dallas-based airline said on Wednesday.

Construction has already begun on the first four Southwest lounges at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Nashville International Airport, which are expected to begin welcoming guests in late 2027.

However, the carrier said at least seven more lounges are planned to open over the next several years across other popular markets.

Southwest will launch a new premium Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card issued by Chase next year that will provide access to the new Southwest lounge network.

"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," Tony Roach, Executive Vice President, Chief Customer & Brand Officer at Southwest Airlines, said in a statement.

"The introduction of a lounge network represents a strategic investment in Rapid Rewards and deepens our 30-year partnership with Chase."


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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