Southwest Airlines is preparing to launch its first-ever passenger lounges, with Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) among four locations selected for the initial rollout.
The airline announced Wednesday that the first phase of its lounge expansion will include airports in Baltimore, Austin, Honolulu and Nashville. Construction has already started at each location, with openings expected in late 2027.
Four Airports Selected for Southwest Lounges
The first Southwest Airlines lounges will open at:
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport in Maryland
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Hawaii
- Nashville International Airport in Tennessee
Southwest said these locations represent the beginning of a broader lounge network, with at least seven additional lounges planned over the coming years in major business and leisure markets.
BWI Airport said the new lounge will cover nearly 33,000 square feet, making it one of the largest facilities in Southwest’s upcoming lounge network.
Southwest Partners With Chase for Lounge Access
Southwest Airlines is partnering with Chase as part of the lounge expansion strategy. Travelers will be able to access the new lounges through a new Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card expected to launch next year.
Tony Roach, Southwest’s executive vice president and chief customer and brand officer, said the lounges will extend the airline’s customer experience while strengthening its Rapid Rewards loyalty program.
“The introduction of a lounge network represents a strategic investment in Rapid Rewards and deepens our 30-year partnership with Chase,” Roach said.
New Lounges Will Feature Local Experiences
Southwest said each lounge will include locally inspired food options, along with travel amenities and benefits designed to improve the passenger experience.
The airline described the lounges as an extension of its hospitality-focused brand, giving customers a dedicated space to relax before flights and experience Southwest in a new way.
The expansion marks a significant shift for Southwest, which has historically operated without traditional airport lounges despite its large customer base and extensive U.S. flight network.
Southwest Lounge Expansion Plans
The airline expects the first four lounges to open in late 2027, with additional locations planned in future years. The company said the expansion will focus on airports with strong demand from both business and leisure travelers.
By introducing airport lounges, Southwest aims to enhance customer loyalty, strengthen its premium offerings and compete more directly with other major U.S. airlines that already operate extensive lounge networks.
