Etihad to launch frequent flier partnership with Southwest Airlines

Etihad Airways has announced it will launch a new frequent flier program partnership with Southwest Airlines. Through the partnership, members of Etihad’s Etihad Guest and Southwest’s Rapid Rewards will be able to earn and redeem points across each other’s networks.

From Spring 2027, Etihad Guest members will be able to earn points on eligible Southwest Airlines flights and redeem miles for reward travel across the US-based airline’s network of destinations within the US, Mexico, Central Mexico, and the Caribbean. In return, Rapid Rewards members will be able to earn points on eligible Etihad flights and redeem points for travel across the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s network including destinations such as Krabi, Zanzibar, and Hanoi.

“We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Southwest Airlines and Rapid Rewards, an exciting addition to our growing portfolio of loyalty partners and Etihad’s presence across North America,” said Mark Potter, Managing Director, Etihad Guest. “We look forward to welcoming Rapid Rewards members onboard Etihad soon, to explore our growing global network and experience our signature hospitality, while offering Etihad Guest members greater access to destinations across the United States, Central America and the Caribbean. This partnership brings together two programmes with a shared focus on rewarding loyalty and giving members greater choice wherever their journeys take them.”

“Our international loyalty partnership with Etihad Guest will give Rapid Rewards members even more value from their membership and create exciting opportunities to earn and redeem points across Etihad’s global network beginning in Spring 2027,” said Nandika Suri, Vice President Rapid Rewards, Southwest Airlines. “We’re pleased to connect our Members with more destinations and rewarding travel experiences, while welcoming Etihad Guest members to enjoy the Southwest Airlines network providing access to dozens of destinations across the United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.”

Etihad operates direct flights from its hub at Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport to Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago O’Hare, New York-JFK, and Washington (Dulles). In Canada, the airline also operates flights to Toronto, and will launch flights to Calgary on October 25.