Southwest Airlines has made significant changes to its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, affecting how passengers earn points. The airline has adjusted its points system, offering more rewards for higher-priced fares and fewer rewards for budget-friendly options.
These changes, which took effect on March 4, 2025, apply to all flights booked from that date onward. However, passengers who booked their flights before the update will still earn points based on the old system, no matter when they fly.
The new system assigns different point values for each fare class. According to Travel + Leisure, the lowest-cost option, Wanna Get Away fares, now earns passengers only two points per dollar spent. On the other hand, Business Select, the airline’s premium fare, awards 14 points per dollar. This change means that purchasing a more expensive fare will allow travelers to accumulate points faster, bringing them closer to earning free flights.
Before the update, Wanna Get Away fares earned six points per dollar, but this has now been reduced. The Wanna Get Away+ fare category has increased from four to six points per dollar. Additionally, the Business Select fare has seen an increase from 12 to 14 points per dollar.
Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program, which began in 1996, was initially designed to reward travelers with a free round-trip ticket after completing eight round-trip flights. The airline’s annual report from that year claimed the program offered the fastest path to free flights compared to its competitors.
In addition to flights, passengers can now earn points through hotel bookings, vacation packages, and even cruises. When booking cruises through Southwest’s travel portal, members can earn one Rapid Rewards point per dollar spent. The airline has partnered with several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages.
Southwest Airlines encourages members to take advantage of its partnerships, offering the flexibility to use points as desired. The airline also allows members to purchase additional points if they fall short of the amount needed for a reward.
“As a Rapid Rewards Member, you earn points by flying or spending with our partners,” the airline states on its website. “Use them how and when you want. Plus, if you’re short on points, you can always purchase more to get that reward you’ve been eyeing.”
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