Southwest trials free Wi-Fi for Rapid Rewards members in key 'test' for future changes
Southwest Airlines is dipping its toes into free Wi-Fi.
Starting Friday, the airline will offer free inflight internet connectivity to members of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program for one week.
It may be a sign of what's to come.
The Dallas-based carrier will make its onboard internet complimentary to loyalty members between Aug. 8 and 14.
To access free browsing and streaming, customers must either log in with their Rapid Rewards number or sign up for the program — either prior to departure or while flying.
It's at least the second time this year Southwest has experimented with free inflight internet in what it's describing as a trial to assess customers' use of its Wi-Fi, live TV and movie selections.
"We will use the findings from both tests to enhance our Wi-Fi offering and continue to strengthen what we offer customers to meet their needs," the airline said this week.
Free inflight internet becoming the norm
Free on-board Wi-Fi has been a growing trend across the U.S. airline industry in recent years.
Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are already well into outfitting their fleets with fast, free internet service. JetBlue has offered its complimentary Wi-Fi for years.
And most recently, American Airlines announced it would begin making inflight Wi-Fi free to flyers in 2026.
Read more: Southwest unveils big credit card refresh: 50% fee hikes, but new seating and boarding perks
Could free Wi-Fi be next at Southwest?
Could this free Wi-Fi trial be a step toward Southwest offering universal free inflight internet?
The airline seemed to acknowledge as much.
"Before we consider offering free inflight Wi-Fi beyond this limited offer, we need to ensure a quality product, and tests like this provide valuable information and insights," Southwest told TPG Friday.
Airlines rightfully expect that making internet free to many more passengers means far more flyers will use the service, putting bandwidth to the test. So carriers oftentimes like to experiment with free service to see how the Wi-Fi holds up with more users.
Today, Southwest charges a flat $8 rate for full connectivity.
Related reading:
- Your complete guide to maximizing Southwest Rapid Rewards
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- How to quickly earn the Southwest Companion Pass
- Southwest A-List status: What it is and how to earn it
- Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
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- How to change or cancel a Southwest Airlines flight