Southwest is building its first airport lounges — what travelers should know

Southwest Airlines is preparing to enter the airport-lounge market with a new network. In its September 2, 2026 announcement, the airline said construction had begun at four first locations, with the first guests expected in late 2027. That is a projected opening timeline, so travelers should check for updates as the dates approach.

The four announced airports are Austin-Bergstrom International, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall, Daniel K. Inouye International in Honolulu, and Nashville International. Southwest also says at least seven additional lounges are planned over the next several years, but has not named those locations. Anything beyond the four confirmed airports is speculation.

The airline says the lounges are being developed with Chase, bringing together Southwest hospitality with elements of the Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network. Southwest describes locally inspired dining and premium amenities as part of the planned offer, but detailed facilities may vary by location and should be confirmed as each lounge opens.

Access is the detail to watch. Southwest says a new premium Rapid Rewards credit card issued by Chase, planned for launch in 2027, will provide lounge access. The announcement does not set out full eligibility, guest, capacity, or day-of-travel terms. Don’t assume lounge entry comes with every Southwest ticket, status level, or existing card. Check the airline’s current lounge information and the card terms directly before relying on access.

If your itinerary passes through Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu, or Nashville, these lounges may become an option in the future. For now, they are still being built, so don’t plan a connection around a lounge visit yet. Confirm your terminal and gate with your airline and review the latest airport and lounge updates close to departure.

A lounge can make time in the terminal more comfortable, but it does not change the ground trip to or from the airport. RideCar arranges chauffeured airport pickups and drop-offs worldwide, with flight tracking and meet-and-greet where available. Enter your airport, flight, date, and destination in the booking flow to check current local options; service, meeting point, fare, and terms are confirmed for the specific trip.