Chase Southwest Airlines Credit Card with Rapid Rewards

Earlier this week, Chase and Southwest airlines announced a number of enhancements to the Chase Southwest Airlines credit card with Rapid Rewards. While I’m not a huge fan of credit cards that tie users to a specific airline – I typically prefer general miles cards like the Capital One Venture card – the Southwest Airlines credit card is one of the few airline credit cards I do like, as the annual fee is very reasonable, Southwest doesn’t charge for checked bags and, most importantly, Southwest Rapid Rewards are significantly easier to redeem than those of nearly every other airline.

Using Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards

In a study done by consulting firm Ideaworks in the summer of 2010, the firm was able to successfully book flights using Rapid Rewards 99% of the time. Compared to other major U.S. carries, this figure is beyond outstanding. With Continental, the success rate was 71%. With American Airlines, the rate was 58%. And with Delta, the rate was a shocking 13%. Thus, unlike with most airline credit cards, the free flight new applicants receive when they sign up for the Rapid Rewards card can actually be used without any hassle.

On March 1st of 2011, redemption options will actually improve. In addition to current options, all card members will be able to redeem points for international flights on more than 50 airlines; at over 70,000 hotels worldwide; on car rentals and even for gift cards. This added flexibility will make the Southwest Rapid Rewards program the most user-friendly frequent flyer program.

Earning Rapid Rewards with the Southwest Airlines Credit Card

With the Southwest credit card, cardholders presently earn 2 reward dollars for every dollar spent on Southwest flights and through rapid rewards travel partners that range from major car rental companies like Hertz and Avis to hotel partners like Best Western and Marriott. All other purchases earn 1 reward dollar.

In addition to the points you earn using your card, Southwest Rapid Reward credit card holders also get anniversary bonus points. Beginning March 1st, this reward will also improve. Premier card holders will now get 6,000 points – enough for a $99 “Wanna Get Away” fare, while Plus card holders will get 3,000 points, enough to get a $49 “Wanna Get Away” fare.

Current Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card holders can learn more about program enhancements at www.newrapidrewards.com.

If you are interested in learning more about this card, you can review details of the offer below, apply online and get a free Southwest flight.

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