Southwest Airlines has unveiled plans to open its first-ever airport lounge network starting late next year. The move is the latest phase of a corporate makeover designed to boost profits, diversify revenue streams, and better compete with major rivals.
The airline intends to use the lounges to attract higher-spending premium travelers. This effort is linked to the launch of a new high-end credit card scheduled for next year, which the carrier hopes to lure fliers toward.
The first four lounges will debut in Baltimore, Honolulu, Nashville, and Austin, Texas, with seven more currently in the works. Southwest is partnering with Chase for the initiative, building on the company's Sapphire Reserve Lounge Network.