Rewards briefing

Southwest Rapid Rewards

Explore earning and redemption, program benefits and official resources. Confirm current terms with the program before making plans.

Archive updated March 26, 2025 · Factual review pending

At a glance · From the archive

Program overview

Rapid Rewards is Southwest Airlines’ loyalty program, offering a straightforward way to earn points based on ticket prices rather than distance traveled. With no blackout dates, points that never expire, and unique pe…

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Expiration

Points do not expire.

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Partners & alliance

Southwest Airlines does not have traditional airline alliances but partners with select international carriers for vacation packages.

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Program Name

Rapid Rewards

Program Overview

Rapid Rewards is Southwest Airlines’ loyalty program, offering a straightforward way to earn points based on ticket prices rather than distance traveled. With no blackout dates, points that never expire, and unique perks like Companion Pass, it’s an ideal program for both casual and frequent travelers.

How to Earn Points

  • Flights with Southwest Airlines.
  • Everyday purchases with Southwest Rapid Rewards® credit cards.
  • Shopping, dining, and hotel stays with program partners.
  • Promotions and bonus point offers.

How to Redeem Points

  • Award flights on Southwest Airlines with no blackout dates.
  • Companion Pass for bringing a designated companion for free (excluding taxes and fees).
  • Merchandise and gift cards through the Rapid Rewards Shopping portal.

Elite Status Tiers

  • A-List: Priority boarding, priority check-in, and 25% earning bonus.
  • A-List Preferred: All A-List benefits, plus 100% earning bonus and free in-flight Wi-Fi.

Key Benefits

  • No blackout dates for points redemption.
  • Points never expire.
  • Companion Pass, one of the most valuable perks in airline loyalty programs.
  • Flexible redemption for travel and non-travel rewards.

Enrollment Information

Expiration Policy

  • Points do not expire.

Partner Airlines and Alliances

  • Southwest Airlines does not have traditional airline alliances but partners with select international carriers for vacation packages.

Transferable Points

  • Points are not transferable from other programs but can be earned through partners like hotels and car rentals.

Support Contact Information

Additional Resources

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Source & policy links

Last factual review: not yet verified. The archive date above records the source update, not a new policy review.