Southwest Replaces A-List with Silver, Gold, and Platinum Tiers Starting 2027

Key points

• Effective January 1, 2027, Southwest will replace A-List and A-List Preferred with Silver, Gold, and Platinum status tiers.
• Platinum status requires 140,000 TQPs or 100 qualifying flights and includes unlimited Companion Passes and up to three free checked bags.
• Gold status requires 65,000 TQPs or 50 flights, while Silver requires 35,000 TQPs or 25 flights.
• All Southwest co-branded credit cards will earn 1 TQP per dollar spent starting in 2027, including the Plus card.
• Companion Pass qualification will no longer use separate qualifying points; it will be earned via TQPs or flights, or through milestone rewards.
• International partner redemptions will launch in spring 2027 with Icelandair, Etihad Airways, and China Airlines.

Background

Southwest has spent two years overhauling its customer experience, ending open seating and introducing checked bag fees. The loyalty program changes follow these shifts, aligning the airline with industry norms for elite status and revenue generation. Previous archive coverage noted the transition from A-List to Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers, effective January 1, 2027, and the introduction of international partnerships.

How outlets are covering it

The Points Guy emphasizes the impact on credit card holders, noting that all Southwest cards will now earn TQPs per dollar, and highlights the elimination of the Companion Pass shortcut via sign-up bonuses. CNBC focuses on the strategic shift toward rewarding high spenders, quoting Southwest executives on the need to refresh the program to match new seating policies. Both sources agree on the core tier changes but differ in emphasis: The Points Guy details the specific TQP requirements and bonus structures, while CNBC highlights the broader industry trend of raising status requirements, citing United Airlines' similar moves.

Why it matters

The changes affect how frequent flyers earn elite status and access perks like the Companion Pass. Credit card holders will benefit from easier status attainment, while those relying on flight segments may face higher requirements. The introduction of international redemptions and lounges expands Southwest's appeal to long-haul travelers, potentially increasing competition with legacy carriers.

What to watch

Southwest will launch international partner redemptions in spring 2027 and open its first Icon Lounges in Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu, and Nashville. The airline aims to complete Starlink Wi-Fi installation fleetwide by fall 2027. Additional partner airlines may be added for Rapid Rewards redemptions in the future.