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Southwest Airlines Community

Albuquerque and Southwest Airlines, Together for 30 years

bshowalter
Explorer C

Happy Anniversary Albuquerque.  30 years ago, Southwest Airlines's Albuquerque Station opened with higher than expected load factors and broke even after only four weeks of service. It was the Company’s Tinth Anniversary, and we employed 1,839 Employees systemwide.  We were proud to be the “little airline that could”.  Our average fare was only $34.18.  At yearend 1980, our fleet consisted of 23 aircraft.  The Annual Report to our Shareholders stated that Southwest’s philosophy and business strategy included: Simplicity of Operations, High Productivity, Focus on Passenger Business, and Serving Short-Haul, Mass Transit Commuter Markets. 

A ton has changed since 1980, but a lot has remained the same.  We still employ some of the greatest Employees in the industry right here in Albuquerque, and we remain committed to low-fares and serving  the New Mexico community.  In 2009, Southwest Airlines in Albuquerque won an award for community service and for being one of the Top Ten Performing Stations in our now huge network.

I am proud of this Team in Albuquerque, proud to serve with and for this great airport and community, and I can’t wait to see how we continue to grow as a Company in the next 30 years. I also can’t wait until the next time I am at one of the many great restaurants in the area, and my server says “red or green?”.  

 

6 Comments
Anonymous1286
Explorer C
Congratulations to Southwest and Albuquerque! Please continue to provide Positively Outrageous Customer Service!!!!!!!!!! You are the best of the best and i wish you many more years together to come
Ray2
Explorer C
Charlie's legendary business plan on a napkin was revolutionary, and not just for the airline industry. When I flew for business on a regular basis, SWA was always my first choice. Great pilots, great crews, and great record of delivering what customers want most. On time service, great baggage handling, low cost fares, employees who love their job, etc. Here's hoping for a long and continued great relationship between SWA, and the city of Albuquerque, Congratulations SWA on 30 years of great service for the Duke City.
Ramos
Explorer C
I used to fly with another airline, until i moved to Albuquerque. The service, the staff, and the airport definitely make you feel like you brought your home with you. I used to fly Albuquerque-Chicago/O'Hare, but now I don't mind going into Chicago/Midway because the service is bar none! Thank you Southwest crew for making a special place in the sky!
Tom_Miles
Explorer C
Congratulations on Southwest's 30th! Thought you might also enjoy this video celebrating Albuquerque International Sunport's 70th anniversary last year http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zInbvW-Xh3c Albuquerque International Sunport turns 70 - history of the Sunport
Robert12
Explorer C
Congratulations! SWA has long been my favorite way to fly. Unfortunately I sometimes have to go where SWA does not. Right now I'm in St. Lucia and won't be home till tomorrow - too late to join the party.
Chris_in_ABQ
Explorer C
Congrats! Southwest is PART of the Land of Enchantment! Your planes grace our beautiful skies with great service, cooky policies, and safe and quiet aircraft. Thanks for all that you do to whisk me away and bring me back to the Sunport. Its always a pleasure! Thanks CR