AUSTIN, Texas — Southwest Airlines has announced that it will launch its first-ever airport lounges, one of which will be in Austin.
The airline said construction is underway on lounge locations at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu and Nashville International Airport.
The first guests are expected to use the new lounges in late 2027.
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Southwest Airlines is collaborating with Chase to build out the lounge experience, combining the hospitality with design. Dining and amenities will be modeled on the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network.
Tony Roach, executive vice president and chief customer and brand officer at Southwest Airlines, said, “Southwest Airlines has built one of the most trusted brands in travel by delivering authentic Hospitality that Customers value. Our lounges will be a natural extension of that experience, offering Customers a place to relax and experience the Southwest brand in a new way.” He added, “The introduction of a lounge network represents a strategic investment in Rapid Rewards and deepens our 30-year partnership with Chase.”
Access to the new Southwest lounges will be provided through a premium Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card issued by Chase, which is expected to launch in 2027.