An aviation enthusiast since childhood, I follow the evolution of air transport worldwide with great interest. Through Uspassengers.com, I focus on analyzing the latest news from American airlines and all carriers operating to and from the United States: new routes, fleet renewals, inter-company agreements, airport developments, and more.
Above is an illustrative image of a future Southwest Airlines cabin layout.
For over fifty years, Southwest Airlines defined itself by what it refused to offer: no assigned seating, no premium class, and no frills. That model is now shifting; on September 2, the airline began construction on its very first lounges in Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu, and Nashville.
Southwest has indicated plans for at least seven additional lounges in high-demand markets over the coming years.
Four lounges planned for 2027
These four spaces are expected to open in late 2027. They will vary significantly in size. Nashville is set to be the largest, spanning approximately 30,000 square feet. Baltimore would be comparable in size, while Austin would measure around 20,000 square feet, and Honolulu would be the smallest at roughly 13,000 square feet.
The Nashville project illustrates the scale of the airline’s ambition. Southwest reportedly secured a building permit for a lounge of about 30,000 square feet, with a construction value of approximately $53 million. This is far more than just a simple seating area.
Access via a Chase Card
Access will be linked to banking services. Southwest is partnering with Chase, drawing inspiration from the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network for design, locally inspired dining, and services. A new premium Southwest Rapid Rewards card, issued by Chase, is set to launch in 2027 to provide access to these lounges.