Southwest Airlines has introduced a major update to its Rapid Rewards program, transforming how passengers accumulate points and making premium fare options more rewarding. The shift, which took effect on March 4, 2025, alters the earning structure across different fare classes, providing new incentives for travelers who book higher-tier tickets.
Changes to Points Earning Structure
The airline has reduced the number of points passengers earn on its most budget-friendly Wanna Get Away fares, dropping the earning rate from six points per dollar spent to just two. However, passengers booking Wanna Get Away+ fares will now earn six points per dollar, up from four. Meanwhile, Business Select travelers will enjoy an increase from 12 points per dollar to 14, making it the most lucrative option for frequent flyers looking to maximize their earnings.
These changes apply to all flights booked on or after March 4, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. CT. Any tickets purchased before this time will still accrue points under the previous earning system, regardless of the travel date.
A Loyalty Program with Expanding Benefits
Southwest Airlines first launched Rapid Rewards in 1996, originally rewarding travelers with a free round-trip flight after completing eight round trips. Over the years, the program has evolved into a more flexible, points-based system, allowing passengers to earn and redeem rewards beyond flights.
Now, in 2025, Southwest is expanding the ways passengers can accumulate points, introducing Southwest Cruises, where travelers can earn points by booking cruise vacations. Through partnerships with major cruise lines—including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages—Rapid Rewards members will earn one point per dollar spent on cruise packages.
This latest shift signals Southwest’s commitment to offering more value to premium travelers while broadening its rewards program to include a diverse range of travel experiences. Whether through flights, vacation packages, or cruises, passengers now have more options than ever to maximize their travel rewards with Southwest Airlines.
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