Southwest Rapid Rewards has been a revenue base frequent flyer program since 2011, on both the earning and redemption side of things. The catch is that it hasn't been quite that straightforward. The number of points you earn depends on the type of fare you book -- Wanna Get Away, Anytime, or Business Select --…
Continue reading: Southwest Rapid Rewards Adjusts Award Redemption Rates
Share your questions, experiences, and thoughts below.
It's clearly a devaluation based on the fact that most people use points on Wanna Get Away fares, but I get so much value out of Rapid Rewards and CP, I can't really complain (and amazing customer service on every call and most flights!)
I'm seeing < 1.5 cpp for random routes on random dates. It seems as CUR portal is better as it counts toward status and you get points back. However, cancellation rules aren't as good.
Can’t complain...at least they don’t hit us with the devals like the big 3 , those sting !!
Although I am a little upset by this , as southwest has been my preferred domestic carrier
@Abe's (April 3, 2018 at 9:25 am) comment reflects the general public's sentiment on FF programs and why revenue-based acquisition and redemption is the future.
While people often aim for the cheapest fares, lots of "normal" folks want to use their points for free travel during busy periods like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring break. Airlines have always offered these special "anytime" awards because they are very useful to many program members. I honestly think the improved redemption level for anytime fares is well balanced by a minor devaluation of saver awards (really we're only talking about an increase of a few hundred points for the typical short-hop saver prices).
Lucky, this is a great article! I know it's not like those First or Business class reviews but this is very useful information. Thanks, Lucky!
I don't fly WN often but do get enough points for a trip every few years. Therefore, this info is useful.