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Southwest is overhauling Rapid Rewards in January 2027, and the Companion Pass takes the biggest hit. Credit card welcome bonuses will no longer count toward it, and the full pass will only come with Southwest's new top status. Occasional flyers can pick up smaller rewards, like bonus points or preferred seats, on the way there. The airline also shared an early look at its upcoming Southwest Icon Lounges, which start opening in late 2027.

Already booked a flight? The price you paid might not be final. If your fare drops after you book, you can often claim the difference as an airline credit, as long as it isn't basic economy. The hard part is noticing. That's where Junova comes in. It tracks eligible flights booked directly with major U.S. airlines and handles getting the savings back for a 20% fee.

For a bigger splurge, Delta is giving Delta One, its long-haul business class, a makeover this fall, starting on flights from Los Angeles. Expect a wagyu burger, sorbet paired with Champagne Taittinger, Blanton's bourbon, and new Missoni amenity kits.

👉 Get $25 in Junova credits with code DD: https://www.junova.ai/?ref=DD

Timeline

0:00 Start Here

0:17 Getting Money Back When Your Fare Drops

2:15 Delta One's Onboard Makeover

3:07 Southwest's Rapid Rewards Overhaul

4:43 Sign-Off

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Advertiser Disclosure: Departure Digest may receive compensation through our partnership with advertisers when you click on links to offers on this page. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain. Terms apply. The information is valid at the time of posting.

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