According to CNBC, Southwest Airlines is replacing its A-List and A-List Preferred Rapid Rewards tiers with Silver, Gold and Platinum levels starting Jan. 1 as it seeks to boost revenue and reward its biggest spenders. The airline said Silver will require 35,000 Tier Qualifying Points, or 25 qualifying flights, while Gold will require 65,000 TQPs or 50 flights and Platinum will require 140,000 TQPs or 100 flights. Southwest said Silver members will board in Group 1, Gold members will board before Group 1 and Platinum members will board ahead of both, and Platinum will include unlimited Companion Pass trips.

Southwest chief customer and brand officer Tony Roach said the changes reflect the carrier's broader overhaul of seating and other customer offerings. The airline is also changing Companion Pass rules, with current holders able to keep their benefits for the duration of their term, while starting with the 2027 earning year the pass will be earned through TQPs or qualifying flights, milestone rewards or Platinum status. Southwest is also adding interim rewards, including seat coupons or extra Rapid Rewards points after 20,000 points or 15 qualifying flights, and three Companion Pass trips after 95,000 points or 75 qualifying flights. The carrier is expanding partnerships with international airlines and building its first airport lounges, called Icon, in four U.S. cities with more planned.