Southwest Airlines also plans to introduce a new Chase co-branded credit card in 2027 that will offer lounge access|Eric Salard|CC BY-SA 2.0
Southwest Airlines is making one of its biggest moves yet to attract customers who are willing to pay more, announcing plans to open its first airport lounges.
The airline is partnering with JPMorgan Chase to launch four lounges in Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu and Nashville, with openings expected to begin in late 2027.
The move comes as Southwest tries to move beyond its budget airline image. It has already introduced assigned seating and extra-legroom options as it looks for new revenue sources.
It ended the longstanding free checked baggage policy last May and began charging customers.
Southwest also plans to introduce a new Chase co-branded credit card in 2027 that will offer lounge access. Airport lounges can help airlines generate higher-margin revenue through premium fares, memberships, upgrades, and credit-card spending.
The company is also exploring bigger changes to its service, including a possible first-class cabin and longer international flights, as competition and rising costs put pressure on airlines.