Southwest plans first lounges across four airports

Southwest Airlines is developing its first airport lounge network, branded Southwest Icon, with initial locations planned for Austin, Baltimore, Honolulu and Nashville in late 2027. The airline says construction is underway and expects to add at least seven more lounges after the first four. A rendering released for the Nashville lounge shows a curved bar and warm copper, bronze and burgundy finishes; each location is expected to reflect its destination while retaining a shared golden-hour-inspired design. Southwest has confirmed that a new premium Rapid Rewards credit card issued by Chase, expected in 2027, will offer lounge access, though other access options and many amenities have not yet been announced. The lounges are part of Southwest’s broader effort to add premium offerings while maintaining its customer-service identity.