Quantcast

Southwest Airlines announces first international partnership with Icelandair

Southwest Airlines announces first international partnership with Icelandair
Research
Webp southwestairlines
Southwest Airlines | Provided Photo

Southwest Airlines is set to embark on its first international airline partnership next month, expanding its list of international gateways to include Denver and Nashville. This development follows the announcement of Baltimore as the initial gateway, paving the way for an interline agreement with Icelandair. The agreement was formalized at a ceremony in Washington.

The partnership will allow Southwest's Rapid Rewards members to redeem points on flights to Iceland and Europe. "Interline partnerships are very common in the airline industry. But it's our first one, so it's very exciting for us," said Andrew Watterson, Southwest's chief operating officer.

Initially, travelers can book itineraries with seamless connections between the two carriers via Icelandair's website starting February. The focus will be on Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport as the U.S. gateway.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Ryan Green, overseeing Southwest's changes announced last year, stated that expansion plans include Denver International Airport and Nashville International Airport. Deeper integration is expected in 2026 when Southwest introduces assigned seating.

The ceremonial launch included gift exchanges and a toast with Brennivin, Iceland's national drink. "This will be a wonderful partnership," said Svanhildur Hólm Valsdóttir, Iceland's ambassador to the U.S.

Southwest aims to announce another international partner in 2025 as part of efforts to offer more destinations through Rapid Rewards. "We're having conversations with both additional transatlantic carriers as well as transpacific carriers," Green mentioned.

In recent years, Southwest has invested significantly in modernizing its technical infrastructure to facilitate such global partnerships and other enhancements like redeye flights.

"This is a new capability we have. And that's what transformation is all about," Watterson noted regarding future expansions.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

ITA Airways announced on X that a radar failure at Naples Capodichino Airport may cause severe delays and cancellations, advising passengers to check flights online before traveling.

Jun 13, 2025

Emirates has announced the launch of three weekly flights to Siem Reap, expanding access to Angkor Wat and other cultural attractions via Dubai and Bangkok.

Jun 13, 2025

Japan Airlines has announced an autumn tour around Hokkaido, featuring chartered trains, buses, and regional bento meals.

Jun 13, 2025

EVA Air has announced its "Escape to Paradise" campaign on the social media platform X, promoting flights to Bali and highlighting the island's beaches, jungles, and culture.

Jun 13, 2025

Etihad Airways announced on the social media platform X that it will begin operating four daily nonstop flights between Abu Dhabi and Karachi starting October 1, increasing service to 28 flights per week.

Jun 13, 2025

San Bernardino International Airport has announced the introduction of new nonstop flights to San Francisco and Provo, Utah.

Jun 13, 2025