Southwest Airlines announced plans to open branded airport lounges in Austin, Texas; Baltimore; Honolulu; and Nashville, Tennessee by late 2027, with seven additional lounges planned for future rollout. The airline will partner with Chase, the exclusive issuer of its Rapid Rewards credit cards, to operate the lounge network. Access will be tied to a new high-end credit card Southwest plans to launch next year.

CEO Bob Jordan had previously discussed the lounge initiative as a logical next step to expand co-brand opportunities and improve customer experience. The move marks a shift from Southwest’s longstanding low-cost model, aiming to capture premium travelers and create new revenue streams. Lounges will reflect the airline’s brand of authentic hospitality, according to Tony Roach, executive vice president and chief customer and brand officer.

Earlier approvals and permits for Honolulu and Nashville lounges had been reported prior to the official announcement.