Southwest Double Reward Points Lifespan
Until yesterday (Aug 10), Southwest Rapid Reward points were valid for a mere twelve months (pretty standard for frequent flyer programs that use points instead of miles). Now, they’re valid for twenty-four months which means you now have twice the time to fly enough to earn free flights. All points you current have last twelve months longer and all new ones will be valid for twenty four months. Here is what the Rapid Rewards E-Mail Update stated:
As of this instant, all Rapid Rewards credits are valid for a full 24 months. That’s two solid years - instead of just 12 months - before any credits expire. So any credits you currently have in your account are now valid for an additional 12 months.
Think about it. The 24-month credit expiration makes it even easier to get Award travel. Get there faster by using our Preferred Partners. You’ve got 2 years to earn the 16 credits you need.
Just when you thought doubling the lifespan of a point was good, they will be taking out all systemwide blackout dates on awards given after Feb 10, 2006. The downside though is that they will be decreasing the number of seats earmarked for awards on flights, but if you plan ahead you should be fine. Here is what the email said:
Beginning February 10, 2006, all Awards issued will have no systemwide blackout dates and will be subject to seat restrictions. Restricting the number of seats for Awards helps us maintain our low-fare leadership and keep the program lucrative for you.
They add in a few more bullet points to clarify everything, many of are just reiterations of current policy:
Awards issued before February 10, 2006 will have no seat restrictions, but are subject to published blackout dates. Awards issued on or after February 10, 2006 will have seat restrictions, but no systemwide blackout dates. Members need to be flexible when choosing times and dates to their destinations as certain holiday or peak travel periods will be in high demand and that makes booking Award travel difficult. Last-minute Award usage will still be allowed based on seat availability. Awards are still valid for 12 months. Receiving a Companion Pass still only requires 100 credits within 12 months. Companion travel will still have no seat restrictions or blackout dates.