Disney4me Posted 5 hours ago Report Posted 5 hours ago It’s been a… tumultuous few years for fans of Southwest, as the well-known airline has put a fair share of controversial changes into effect. Southwest Airlines However, a recent announcement from the airline brings major good news for frequent Southwest flyers: NEW Lounges are coming! Southwest Airlines recently announced that they’re teaming up with Chase and introducing a new Airport Lounge Network that will introduce “new spaces where travelers can recharge, reconnect, and relax before their flight.” Access to the new lounges will be available to those who sign up for a new, premium Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card issued by Chase, which will be launching in 2027. View this post on Instagram The first lounges will be opening at the following airports in late 2027, with plans for seven more over the next few years. Austin (AUS) Baltimore (BWI) Honolulu (HNL) Nashville (BNA) According to the airline, these new spaces will offer “a dedicated place to spend time before your flight. We’re creating something uniquely Southwest, combining inspiration from the communities we serve with the success of the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge NetworkSM. Each lounge will combine the warmth and friendliness you expect from Southwest with sophisticated design, locally-inspired dining, and high-quality amenities offered in the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network today.” Southwest Airlines at John Wayne International Airport As mentioned above, the announcement of the lounges comes at a hectic time for Southwest, as the airline has enacted several changes over the years. After not using assigned seats for the entirety of its existence, Southwest changed its traditional policy as of January 27th, 2026. Fares include new seat options to choose from: Extra Legroom Seats, which provide a “roomier experience with more legroom to stretch out, at the front of the cabin and near the exit rows, with up to five additional inches* of extra legroom compared to Standard and Preferred seats. Plus, earlier access to bin space, enhanced snacks, and complimentary premium beverages.” Preferred Seats, which offer “standard legroom seats near the front of the cabin.” Standard Seats, which offer “standard legroom seats located in the back of the cabin.” At the time of the announcement, Southwest said of the changes, “For your comfort, we’re introducing seat options that allow you to choose the experience you prefer. This includes options to select where you want to sit and upgrade to an Extra Legroom seat, giving you more choices when you travel with us. Learn more about all the new options ahead, including our new cabin design, new fare bundles, plus Tier and Cardmember perks to match.” ©Southwest Airlines In conjunction with the new seating rules, Southwest also altered its “Customer of Size” policy. Previously, the airline allowed customers to buy a single seat and discuss their seating needs with a gate agent ahead of departure. If it was determined that a second or third seat was needed, the airline would accommodate them with a complimentary additional seat the day of travel. ©Southwest Airlines However, as of January 27th, 2026, Southwest altered the policy to say that, “Customers who encroach upon the neighboring seat(s) should proactively purchase the needed number of seats before travel to ensure the additional seat is available,” adding that it will refund the extra seat purchase if requested when travel is complete. According to the airline, if the flight is sold out or adjacent seats aren’t available, they will rebook you on an alternate flight. They also suggest buying a second seat when you make your reservation so you don’t have to take a different flight. Southwest plane at Long Beach Airport The airline also altered its boarding process with the introduction of assigned seating. The previous A/B/C groups with numbered positions transitioned to a new boarding structure using numbered groups ranging from 1 through 8. Southwest Airlines gate at Harry Reid International Airport In 2025, Southwest also ended its longtime “Bags Fly for Free Policy”, and the airline is now charging for checked bags on Basic, Choice, and Choice Preferred fares. However, there are some exceptions: Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Getaways by Southwest customers will receive two free checked bags. A-List Members and Rapid Rewards Credit Card members will receive only their first checked bag for free. Hawaii residents traveling between the islands will continue to receive two free checked bags. ©Southwest Airlines Southwest Airlines and Chase are teaming up to introduce a new series of airport lounges in 2027. Stay tuned to DFB for more on the airline industry. Southwest Airlines Calls Out “Aisle Lice” Passengers and People Have THOUGHTS Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will these lounges have you flying Southwest again? Let us know in the comments below. 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