Southwest Airlines Streamlines Rapid Rewards Program for Enhanced Benefits

Southwest Airlines is revamping its Rapid Rewards frequent flyer program by lowering the thresholds for reaching elite tiers. Starting in 2024, passengers will only need to take 20 one-way flights or earn 35,000 tier qualifying points to qualify for A-List status, down from the current requirement of 25 flights. For A-List Preferred, the requirement will drop from 50 one-way trips to 40. The airline will also accelerate the earning of tier points from everyday spending on Southwest co-branded credit cards. Additionally, A-List Preferred members will receive two free premium drinks on every flight. Southwest's changes aim to align with the shift from business to leisure travel and reward customer spending.