Southwest Plans First Lounges at Four Airports

Southwest Airlines is building its first-ever airport lounge network, with four locations expected to open in late 2027 at Austin-Bergstrom, Baltimore/Washington, Honolulu and Nashville. Construction is already underway, and the airline plans to add at least seven more lounges in the following years. Access will be tied to a new premium Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card issued by Chase, which is also scheduled to launch in 2027. Southwest says the lounges will feature locally inspired food, upscale amenities, sophisticated design and the hospitality associated with its brand, expanding the carrier’s traditionally value-focused model into premium travel. The Austin lounge comes as the airport undergoes expansion and Southwest continues to handle a substantial share of its passenger traffic.