Southwest Airlines to Open Premium Airport Lounges Co-Branded With Chase

In what marks one of the most drastic business transformations in aviation history, Southwest Airlines is officially preparing to enter the premium lounge market. Long known for its single-cabin, low-cost model, the Dallas-based carrier is quietly securing airport space to build a network of lounges in partnership with long-time credit card issuer Chase.

The strategic move comes alongside Southwest's recent shift toward assigned seating and extra-legroom seats, signaling a full-court press to attract premium leisure and corporate travelers.

Southwest Airlines is moving forward with plans to open airport lounges co-branded with Chase at key hub airports.

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Why Southwest is Entering the Lounge Business

For decades, airport lounges were considered taboo for low-cost airlines. However, credit card partnerships have become massive profit drivers for major airlines. While competitors like Delta, United, and American generate billions through premium co-branded cards that offer lounge access, Southwest's top card tier has historically maxed out at lower price points.

By building airport lounges in partnership with Chase, Southwest aims to unlock a brand-new ultra-premium Rapid Rewards credit card tier.

SOUTHWEST x CHASE LOUNGE NETWORK AT A GLANCE

• Co-Brand Partner: Chase Bank (issuers of Southwest Rapid Rewards cards)
• Reported Hub Pipeline: Honolulu (HNL), Dallas Love Field (DAL), Austin (AUS), Nashville (BNA), and Denver (DEN)
• Expected Tied Product: A new premium Chase card ($395–$650 annual fee tier)
• Key Target Audience: Frequent business travelers and loyal Rapid Rewards cardholders

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Where Will the First Lounges Open?

While executive leadership hasn't formally announced opening dates yet, lease filings and industry reports confirm space acquisition is already underway across at least five major Southwest focus cities:

• Honolulu (HNL): Approved for Southwest's first-ever official lounge lease.
• Dallas Love Field (DAL): A primary headquarters hub that handles heavy passenger volume.
• Denver International (DEN): One of Southwest's busiest connecting hubs in the nation.
• Austin-Bergstrom (AUS) & Nashville (BNA): Rapidly growing tech and leisure destinations where Southwest holds major market share.

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What This Means for Rapid Rewards Cardholders

To support a lounge network, Southwest and Chase are surveying a new premium credit card option expected to feature an annual fee between $395 and $650. Cardholders will likely receive unlimited lounge visits, potential guest passes, and added Priority Pass membership perks to cover secondary airports where dedicated Southwest lounges aren't yet available.

Travelore Pro-Tip: If you currently hold a Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority card, hold off on making major changes to your setup. The new Chase lounge card tiers will officially be revealed alongside the formal lounge launch announcements.

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The Bottom Line

With assigned seating, extra-legroom options, and now Chase co-branded airport lounges on the horizon, Southwest Airlines is fundamentally reshaping its identity to capture high-value travelers who want comfort from curb to gate.