Southwest Airlines has quietly slashed loyalty-point accrual for its low-fare products.
Flyers now earn just two Rapid Rewards points per dollar spent on its Wanna Get Away fares, down from the previous rate of six points per dollar. Wanna Get Away Plus fares now reward six points per dollar spent, down from 10.
Conversely, Southwest has bumped the reward for its top-level Business Select fare, which now is 14 points per dollar spent, up from 12. Accrual remains 10 points per dollar for Anytime fares.
Southwest said Rapid Rewards "remains one of the most rewarding and flexible loyalty programs in the airline industry with unlimited reward seats, no blackout dates and points that don't expire for all members."
The change in point accruals comes as Southwest is under pressure from activist shareholder Elliott Investment Management to quickly improve its financial results. The airline will begin assigning seats and selling extra-legroom fares next year.