Southwest expands Rapid Rewards scheme

Southwest Airlines is expanding its Rapid Rewards scheme for frequent fliers by teaming up with the InterContinental Hotels group (IHG).

From October 1, Rapid Rewards members who stay in any of the 3,500 IHG properties around the world and enrol in IHG's own Priority Club rewards scheme will receive an extra half-credit on their rewards scheme with Southwest.

Hotels that fall under this bracket include all Holiday Inns, InterContinentals and Crowne Plazas.

Joyce Rogge, Southwest's senior vice president of marketing, said: "Southwest is thrilled to partner with the world's largest and most global hotel company to bring our Rapid Rewards Members more flexibility and opportunities to earn a free ticket.

"Rapid Rewards Members are extremely loyal because of the tremendous value they receive through membership in our program."

Under Southwest's rewards scheme, members who make either eight round trips or earn 16 credits within a two-year period are awarded a free round trip. Members who make 50 round trips or earn 100 credits in just one year are then allowed to nominate a traveler to fly for free with them for the following year.

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