Southwest Airlines to Open First Airport Lounges in 2027

Southwest Airlines announced plans on Wednesday to open its first-ever airport lounges, marking a significant expansion into premium travel services for the low-cost carrier. The airline will launch four lounges in late 2027 at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas, Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport in Maryland, Daniel K. Inouye Honolulu International Airport in Hawaii, and Nashville International Airport in Tennessee. At least seven additional lounges are planned for high-demand business and leisure markets in the following years, though specific locations have not been announced. The initiative is a partnership with JPMorgan Chase, which will also issue a new Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card in 2027. Access to the lounges will be granted to holders of this new card. The lounges will feature design, dining, and amenities similar to those found in the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network, according to the airline.