Several major carriers and hospitality brands have announced significant shifts in airline loyalty and lounge access. These updates include stricter qualification rules for United Airlines, a complete overhaul of Southwest's Rapid Rewards program, and massive expansions to the American Express Centurion Lounge network.

How are airline loyalty programs changing?

United Airlines is preparing for 2027 by implementing tougher Premier 1K qualification requirements. The carrier will also eliminate flight segments as a method for qualifying for status. This change means that total travel activity may no longer be measured by the number of individual flights taken.

Southwest is also transforming its loyalty structure to resemble legacy carriers. The carrier is moving away from its unique A-List system toward a three-tier model consisting of Silver, Gold, and Platinum status. Additionally, Southwest is introducing the following updates:

  • Rapid Rewards credit cardholders can earn one tier qualifying point per dollar spent.
  • The airline is overhauling its Companion Pass program.
  • New lounges are planned for four specific U.S. cities.

Where will new lounges open?

Travelers can expect more premium spaces in the coming years. Southwest has announced it will open its first airport lounges in Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu, and Nashville. While the specific timing for these locations was not detailed, they are part of the new Southwest Icon Network.

American Express is also investing heavily in its Centurion Lounge network with a massive expansion project. The company plans to add roughly 60,000 square feet of new space across several locations. Key projects include:

  • A new, two-story lounge at Newark Terminal A scheduled for 2027.
  • A second Heathrow lounge in Terminal 5 expected in 2028.
  • Major rebuilds and expansions at existing lounges in Houston and Philadelphia.

What other travel updates are occurring?

Other industry shifts include JetBlue launching BlueFirst domestic first-class tickets with fares starting at $249. Marriott Bonvoy is currently testing a new feature to increase upgrade-waitlist visibility for its elite members. Additionally, Hyatt has simplified its point-sharing process, allowing members to transfer points digitally via the website rather than using email and PDF forms.

FAQ

Which cities will get new Southwest lounges?

Southwest will debut its new lounge concept in Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu, and Nashville.

What is changing with United's status requirements?

United is increasing Premier qualification thresholds for 2027 and removing flight segments from the qualification process.