Southwest Airlines wants in on the airport lounges business

AirlinesSouthwest Airlines wants in on the airport lounges businessFor Southwest, having lounges would attract business and frequent flyer customers, who have grown accustomed to the perk at other carriersByChris MorrisUpdated YesterdayShare to XShare to FacebookShare to RedditShare to EmailShare to LinkMario TamaWhile airport lounges from the big three airlines are common sights at airports across the country, discount carriers have historically eschewed that luxury. Southwest Airlines, however, is rethinking that stance, with one in the works already and active discussions with airports around the country to create more.Suggested ReadingThe Fed thinks America might be quietly shedding jobs. Here's whyDisney will let Sora users make videos with its characters as it invests $1 billion in OpenAIOracle stock plunges more than 16% after revenue falls shortTwo months ago, Southwest won approval for an airport lounge at Honolulu’s Daniel K.

Inouye International Airport. And in an interview with CNBC on Wednesday, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said the carrier is "actively pursuing" the idea of a network of lounges, along with its credit card partner Chase.Related ContentScott Bessent wants to overhaul a financial regulatory commission created after the 2008 crisisTrump unveils a $1 million 'Gold Card' for the ultra-rich to buy U.S. residency“I think lounges would be a huge, next benefit for our customers,” Jordan said. “And you [would] have a lounge network that allows you to offer that premium credit card that provides lounge access.”Jordan did not provide a timeline for that network, but said it's clear customers wanted these areas.Chase is fairly new to the airport lounge business itself, opening its first in 2023 at Boston Logan International Airport, which was followed by locations in New York, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Las Vegas and San Diego. That let it better compete with American Express, which has a series of Centurion lounges at 13 airports in the U.S. as well as a number of international locations. Platinum and Business platinum cardholders (along with up to two guests) have access to those facilities, which offer similar perks.For Southwest, having lounges would attract business and frequent flyer customers, who have grown accustomed to the perk at other carriers. Airport lounges are havens for travelers who have long layovers or who arrive at the airport several hours before their flight. Recently, though, at least one major carrier has made it harder for flyers to gain entry into its lounges.In 2023, Delta Air Lines changed its access policies to lounges, barring passengers from basic economy and no longer letting holders of American Express’s Delta SkyMiles Platinum card purchase a one-day pass. (Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card still receive a limited number of visits.)Lounges would be just the latest change for Southwest, which will change its boarding procedures starting next year and has done away with its beloved free checked bag policy.📬 Sign up for the Daily BriefOur free, fast and fun briefing on the global economy, delivered every weekday morning.Sign me upThe Palatial: 3.5, 4.5 BHK Luxury ResidencesNew Launch: 3.5, 4.5BHK Homes starting @ ₹4.96 Cr*, Dwarka E-way.Hero Homes | SponsoredSponsoredLearn MoreUndo4.5BHK Homes starting @₹6.05 Cr*, New LaunchNew Launch: 3.5, 4.5BHK Homes starting @ ₹4.96 Cr*, Dwarka E-way.Hero Homes | SponsoredSponsoredLearn MoreUndoServiced Apartments by Hiranandani Coming Soon to AlibaugFully Furnished Serviced Apartments with Assured Rentals by Hiranandani Communities Now Coming Soon to AlibaugHiranandani Exclusive | SponsoredSponsoredLearn MoreUndoHiranandani Coming Soon to Alibaug With Assured RentalsFully Furnished Serviced Apartments with Assured Rentals by Hiranandani Communities Now Coming Soon to AlibaugHiranandani Exclusive | SponsoredSponsoredLearn MoreUndoMountain Gear for Extreme ConditionsShop the best in outdoor gear and apparel. High-altitude jackets, trekking boots, and more for your next adventure.Trek Kit India | SponsoredSponsoredLearn MoreUndoPrateek Grand Begonia Siddharth Vihar, GhaziabadLuxury 2 & 3 BHK Apartments from Rs.1.30 Cr* At Siddharth Vihar, GhaziabadPrateek Group | SponsoredSponsoredBook NowUndoStart Forex Trading. Get a 100% Welcome BonusFind out why you should join iFOREX, a regulated broker with over 25 years of experience. Open your iFOREX account and enjoy a 100% Welcome Bonus. Sign up today!iFOREX | SponsoredSponsoredSign UpUndoToothsi invisible teeth aligners, now at flat 15k off!Enjoy free Electric toothbrush & Teeth whitening pen worth 5KToothsi by MakeO | SponsoredSponsoredBook NowUndoFlat 15k off on Toothsi invisible teeth aligners!Enjoy free Electric toothbrush & Teeth whitening pen worth 5KToothsi by MakeO | SponsoredSponsoredBook NowUndoOption Trading: Mr.

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