Southwest Airlines introduces limited-time Companion Pass offer

Southwest Airlines has announced the return of its highly sought-after Companion Pass promotion, offering a rare opportunity for travelers to bring a companion on flights at a significantly reduced cost. This offer is available for a limited time, allowing eligible customers to earn the pass through a simplified process compared to standard qualification requirements.

How the Promotion Works

To qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass, travelers must apply for one of three Southwest personal credit cards by March 31, 2025, and meet a spending requirement of $4,000 within 90 days of card approval. Upon meeting these conditions, the pass will be valid through February 28, 2026.

This pass allows the designated companion to fly for only the cost of taxes and fees, which start at $5.60 per flight for domestic routes. Unlike other airline companion fare programs, Southwest’s version has no usage limits, making it possible to use the pass on flights paid with cash, points, or travel credits.

Eligible Southwest Credit Cards

Applicants can choose from three Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards to take advantage of this promotion. Each card comes with unique benefits and rewards:

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card ($69 annual fee) – Earns 2X points on Southwest purchases and includes 3,000 anniversary points.
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card ($99 annual fee) – Offers 3X points on Southwest purchases, plus 6,000 anniversary points.
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card ($149 annual fee) – Provides 3X points on Southwest purchases, 7,500 anniversary points, a $75 annual travel credit, and upgraded boarding perks.

Maximizing Travel Benefits

Earning the Companion Pass typically requires 100 one-way flights or 135,000 qualifying points in a calendar year, making this promotion a much faster way to access the benefit. In addition to the pass, successful applicants receive 30,000 Rapid Rewards points, which can be redeemed for additional flights, further enhancing the value of the promotion.

This offer appeals to a wide range of travelers, including families looking to reduce vacation costs, business travelers who frequently fly with a companion, and budget-conscious flyers who want to maximize savings. With Southwest’s free checked baggage policy, customers can save even more by avoiding baggage fees on every trip.

Travelers interested in this offer should note that eligibility is restricted to those who do not currently hold a Southwest personal credit card and have not received a cardmember bonus within the past 24 months.