DALLAS - Southwest Airlines is launching its own lounge network, and Austin-Bergstrom is just one of four airports in the nation to be part of it first.
The airline announced the collaboration with Chase on Sept. 2.
Big picture view:
Southwest says construction has begun on its first four lounges, with an expected opening date in late 2027.
The lounges will be located at:
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
- Daniel K. Inouye (Honolulu) International Airport
- Nashville International Airport
The lounges will be accessible using a new, premium Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card issued by Chase.
What they're saying:
"Southwest Airlines has built one of the most trusted brands in travel by delivering authentic Hospitality that Customers value. Our lounges will be a natural extension of that experience, offering Customers a place to relax and experience the Southwest brand in a new way," said Tony Roach, Executive Vice President, Chief Customer & Brand Officer at Southwest Airlines. "The introduction of a lounge network represents a strategic investment in Rapid Rewards and deepens our 30-year partnership with Chase."
What's next:
Southwest says it plans to open at least seven more lounges over the next several years across high-demand and leisure business markets.
FOX 7 Austin has reached out to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport for more details.
The Source: Information in this report comes from a Sept. 2 press release from Southwest Airlines. This story was reported from Austin, Texas.