Southwest Airlines intros rewards debit card

Southwest Airlines introduced its Rapid Rewards Debit Card powered by Galileo. With this Visa card, flyers can earn rewards such as a 2,500 point welcome bonus with two recurring deposits and $100 spend within the first 90 days, according to a press release.

"At Southwest Airlines, we are continually exploring new ways for our Customers to experience the benefits of our Rapid Rewards program," Tony Roach, EVP chief customer and brand officer at Southwest Airlines, said in the release. "With more than 90% of Americans using debit cards, expanding our award-winning Rapid Rewards loyalty program to include a debit card was a natural next step.2 Whether it's a college student looking to book a flight to watch their favorite team, a parent setting up an account for a recent graduate, or a cash-savvy Customer looking for another way to earn rewards, the Rapid Rewards Debit Card offers unlimited options to turn everyday spending into that next Southwest flight."

Key features include:

• Earn one point per $2 on everyday purchases.
• One point per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines purchases.
• Complimentary 7,500 Companion Pass bonus.
• No fees for ATMs within Cirrus network.

"Partnering with Southwest Airlines to launch this debit program demonstrates how quickly global brands can innovate on Galileo's platform," Bill Kennedy, interim CEO and CFO at Galileo Financial Technologies, said in the release. "With our modern technology, Southwest Airlines can deliver seamless payments and create new loyalty opportunities that deepen customer engagement."