Frequent Miler on the Air · Saturday, October 24, 2026
Southwest is completely changing its Companion Pass program starting in 2027, requiring travelers to earn top-tier Platinum status—primarily through paid flights and credit card spending rather than general credit card bonuses—to secure an unlimited Companion Pass. Credit card welcome bonuses and partner spend will no longer count toward elite status.
“Until now, Southwest's Companion Pass... is changing in 2027. And many of the ways that we previously used to get it easily... will no longer be available going forward.”
“points from credit card bonuses are not going to count towards elite status.”