Southwest Airlines Community

Despite all the fare sales that have been going on, I know some of you out there are still waiting for a better deal.  Well…here it is!  You don’t want to pass this one up.    Today, we are launching one of the biggest fare sales in Southwest Airlines history.  For 48 hours, one-way tickets will be available for just $30, $60, or $90 based on length of travel.   • $30 for travel up to 400 miles (like Baltimore/Washington to New York LaGuardia) • $60 for travel between 400 and 750 miles (like Las Vegas to Oakland) • $90 for travel more than 750 miles (like Chicago Midway to Houston Hobby)   To see the list of markets and prices or to book your travel, click here.   ***These fares will only be available for 48 hours, so book now!  (See fare rules below). Due to the overwhelming success of our fare sale, southwest.com is operating at peak capacity and experiencing sporadic delays. We apologize for any inconvenience you may have.     FARE RULES Fares are available on www.southwest.com or www.swabiz.com. Southwest Airlines sale fares are available from July 7, 2009, through 11:59 PDT July 8, 2009. Travel must take place between Sept. 9, 2009, and Nov. 18, 2009. Travel valid everyday except Fridays and Sundays. Sale fares slightly higher on other days of the week. Fares do not include a federal segment tax of $3.60 per takeoff and landing.  Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9.00 and U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 one-way.  Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or to all destinations.  Fares are available for one-way travel. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward the purchase of future travel on Southwest Airlines.  Fares are not available through the Group Desk.  Any change in the itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Reservations made through southwestvacations.com are not eligible for this promotion. Standby travel requires an upgrade to the Anytime Fare. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Fares are valid on published, scheduled service only.   ... View more

While I was getting ready for a return to New York after a three week trip in Poland, the people at Southwest were making some noise of their own in the Big Apple. The low-cost airline officially debuted at LaGuardia airport this past Sunday. The day was filled with festivites that included a breakfast with NY style bagels for customers and employees and a special live performance from Southwest’s rapping flight attendant.   To read more, visit: http://www.thebrooklynnomad.com/?p=2372&cpage=1#comment-458 ... View more

After years of Left Field on the Flight Global/Airline Business site, aviation blogger David Field is back and on his own, with a unique and slightly cynical take on the airline business today.   Southwest diary: No New York Earthshakes Southwest just began service at New York's LaGuardia, and that's been occasion for a load of stories about how the low-fares leader is changing its business model and transforming itself. Well, it is a sight, the image of a Southwest plane in or at least near Gotham, but the airline's eight daily LaGuardia flights mark more of a continuation of its recent service patterns than any big, radical shift or major change. To read more, visit:  http://airlinefield.blogspot.com/   ... View more

NEW YORK, June 28, 2009 -- Southwest Airlines today celebrated the airline's new service at LaGuardia with its "New Service, New Attitude, New York" themed celebration. Southwest Customers and Employees dined on New York style bagels while being serenaded by Southwest's rapping flight attendant, David Holmes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivjybzdXVmI . Southwest Airlines' Senior Vice President of Operations Greg Wells joined the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's Director of Aviation William R. DeCota in a morning news conference at LaGuardia to launch the airline's new service. Click Southwest Airlines to see the full LaGuardia schedule or to book a flight to or from New York City. "Southwest Airlines is celebrating a truly momentous occasion today. Finally New York travelers can experience our unmatched record in Customer Service and our phenomenally low fares at an airport close to where they work and play," said Wells. "Additionally, Customers in both Chicago and the DC area now have a new low fare choice when planning trips into LaGuardia." Southwest Airlines is now serving New York City travelers from LaGuardia with eight daily nonstop flights--five daily nonstops to Chicago Midway and three daily nonstop flights to Baltimore/Washington. In addition to the eight daily nonstop flights, Southwest Airlines will offer direct or connecting service to more than 45 destinations from New York City, including: Las Vegas, Denver, Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Diego, just to name a few. To view all of Southwest's destinations from LaGuardia visit www.southwest.com . Southwest Airlines operates from Gate B4 in LaGuardia's Central Terminal Building. "Our customers are our number one priority and Southwest Airline's new service out of LaGuardia provides not only excellent service, but also a cost-efficient choice for our customers to some of the nation's most important destinations, " said Bill DeCota, Director of Aviation for the Port Authority of NY and NJ. This morning's press conference was one of the many weekend activities organized to commemorate Southwest Airlines' new service to LaGuardia and to introduce the Southwest brand to the New York City market. Earlier in the week, Southwest Airlines celebrated at the Southwest Porch at Bryant Park with Customers and Employees. Southwest Employees will continue its community involvement today through a volunteer activity at Flushing Meadows where Employees will clean up the park. "Southwest Airlines is dedicated to getting involved in the communities we serve," said Wells. "Today we're cleaning up Flushing Meadows Park, and our Employees will be mentoring at MS-8 New Prep Middle School here in Queens in the coming school year--just one more way Southwest can bring its vivacious Spirit to New York City." When shopping for Southwest online, it's important to know that Southwest Airlines low fares are only available at www.southwest.com. Not only will Customers find Southwest's great rates online at www.southwest.com, but the site also hosts Southwest's Travel Guide where Customers can check out New York City travel tips posted by those who frequent the Big Apple. To get an insider perspective on Southwest's LaGuardia opening check out Southwest's blog--Nuts About Southwest and see the following post: http://www.blogsouthwest.com/blog/a-new-york-state-mind. After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service, and no hidden fees. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom. Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest Airlines even more convenient. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 66 cities (adding Boston Logan and Milwaukee later this year) in 33 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide. www.southwest.com   ... View more

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES NAMED OFFICIAL AIRLINE OF THE UNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S 30th ANNUAL CONVENTION & BUSINESS EXPO Dallas, TX - June 25, 2009 – Southwest Airlines was named the official airline of the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s (USHCC) 30th Annual National Convention & Business Expo which will be celebrated this year Sept. 16 -19 in Denver, Colorado.     “It is an honor to be named the official airline of this annual business event.  The US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) will gather more than 3,000 business owners in an important conversation about the economy,” said Christine Ortega, Corporate Community Affairs manager for Southwest Airlines.  “We are proud to contribute to this organization and to be part of the effort to spur economic growth in our nation.” Ortega also serves on the Senior Executive Corporate Advisory Board providing advice and input to USHCC leaders as needed.   In support of the event, Southwest Airlines will team with the Chamber to offer the Chamber’s members information about specific products like Business Select and DING! that can save the business travelers time and money.  In addition, Southwest Airlines will provide five lucky Chamber members with complimentary airfare to the convention when they register online at www.ushcc.com/convention by September 4, 2009.  In addition to support of organizations like the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Southwest Airlines provides assistance to minority owned businesses who want to become  certified suppliers of the airline through its Supplier Diversity program.   Richard Moore, Southwest Airlines’ Director of Supplier Diversity, serves as the liaison through the chamber's Procurement Executive Corporate Advisory Board.                                                                   “We are very proud to have Southwest Airlines as the official airline of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s annual convention,” said David Lizárraga, Chairman of the Board of the USHCC.  “Southwest Airlines has been a key partner for many years and their dedication to and support of the Hispanic business community if strong.  We look forward to this opportunity to continue strengthening our longstanding corporate relationship as it gives our members the freedom to fly.”   About the USHCC’s 30th Annual National Convention & Business Expo Founded in 1979, the USHCC has held an annual convention each year, visiting various cities across the United States and Puerto Rico over the past thirty years.  It is known as the most important national event for the Hispanic Business community on an annual basis.  The USHCC’s 30th Annual Convention is made possible with the support of Wells Fargo, its official Alianza partner; Southwest Airlines, the official airline of the USHCC’s 30th Annual National Convention; and Sprint, its official wireless provider.  For an updated list of partners and potential sponsorship information, visit www.ushcc.com/convention.    About Southwest Airlines  After nearly 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation’s leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service, and without punitive fees.  Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom.  Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest Airlines even more convenient.  Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 65 cities (adding Boston Logan and Milwaukee later this year) in 33 states.  Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.           ... View more

An interesting and insightful read from Bill Swelbar’s blog. "The US airline industry has endured the unthinkable since late 2000. With rare exception, there is not one year that can be described as a whole, but rather a tale of two halves. Even the year 2000 was that way when the first half had all stars aligned and the second half was the beginning of a revenue decline that still continues. As fuel marched from $90 per barrel in early 2008 to $147 on July 11, unit revenues were on the rise. Ancillary fees became a part the industry vernacular. Then in late summer of that year, as fuel prices dropped nearly as fast as they rose, unit revenues began to freefall. And they continue. The Airline Data Project demonstrates that passenger revenue for the airlines covered increased $3.8 billion in 2008 while fuel expenses increased some $11 billion. Year-to-date passenger revenue in 2009 is down some 20 percent thus far, while capacity has dropped 8 percent." To read more, visit:  http://www.swelblog.com/articles/meanderings-on-us-open-golf-and-the-us-airline-industry.html ... View more

Live in DC area? First 25 people to Direct Message @SouthwestAir on Twitter can spend Saturday night in New York CIty with a guest!  Roundtrip flight and hotel are on us!  Flight leaves Saturday from Baltimore/Washington.  “THE GRAB YOUR BAGS, IT’S OFF TO NEW YORK CONTEST”   NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.  A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCE OF WINNING.  VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. 1.   How to Enter the Contest a.    Southwest Airlines “GRAB YOUR BAGS, IT’S OFF TO NEW YORK CONTEST” (“Contest”) will begin on or around 5 p.m. CT on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 and will end on or around 12 p.m. on Friday, June 26, 2009.   b.    Southwest Airlines is not responsible for lost, stolen, mangled, mis-delivered, postage due, illegible, incomplete or late entries, telephone service outages, delays, busy signals, equipment malfunctions and any other technological difficulties that may prevent an individual from completing his/her telephone call.]   c.    To participate in the Contest, you may enter via the following method: Be one of the first 25 people to DIRECT MESSAGE the @southwestair account with your name and email address.  All entries submitted become the sole property of Southwest Airlines and will not be acknowledged or returned.  Use of any device to automate entry is prohibited.  Proof of submission of an entry shall not be deemed proof of receipt by Southwest.  Southwest Airlines computer is the official time keeping device for the contest.  Southwest is not responsible for entries not received due to difficulty accessing the internet, service outage or delays, computer difficulties or other technological glitches.     d.    One internet entry per person and one internet entry per email address is permitted.     2.   Eligibility Restrictions   a.    The contest is open to all persons who are 21 years of age or older and who reside in the Baltimore/D.C. Area. Employees of Southwest Airlines and the members of their immediate families and or households are ineligible to participate or win.     b.    Only one winner per household is permitted in any Contest administered by Southwest.   c.    Entrants are required to provide truthful information and Southwest will reject and delete any entry that it discovers to be false or fraudulent.  Southwest Airlines will disqualify any entry from individuals who do not meet the eligibility requirements, and Southwest Airlines will also delete any entry received from persons under the age of 13 in compliance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act.]   3.   Prizes:   a.   Nine (9) First Prizes: Each winner will receive a trip for two (2) (winner and guest, age 21 or older) to New York , NY for an overnight New York themed trip from Saturday, June 27th, 2009 to Sunday, June 28th, 2009.  Trip includes round trip airfare transportation from Baltimore/Washington (BWI) to New York (LaGuardia), 1-night standard double occupancy hotel accommodations (one room), and ground transportation to and from LaGuardia.  (Approximate Retail Value ("ARV"): $1,000) but will vary depending on travel origination and fares in effect at the time of departure.  Certain travel restrictions may apply.  Travel arrangements must be made through Administrator’s agent on a carrier of Administrator’s choice.  No prize substitutions, cash equivalent, or transfer of prizes permitted except at the sole discretion of the Contest Entities. Prize subject to availability and the Contest Entities reserve the right, at their sole discretion, to award a prize of greater or equal value if the advertised prize is unavailable.  If winner cannot travel on dates specified by Contest Entities, winner may be disqualified and an alternate winner selected.  All other costs not specifically stated herein, including, but not limited to, taxes, meals, tips and ground transportation, are the responsibility of the winner.  Taxes are solely the responsibility of the winner.  Winner and travel companion must travel on the same itinerary and are responsible for obtaining all required travel documents.  In addition, travel companion of Winner must be 21 years of age or older.  Winner may be required to present a valid credit card upon hotel check in to cover any incidental expenses incurred during their stay.  Winner and travel companion are responsible for obtaining travel insurance (and all other forms of insurance) where applicable, at their option, and hereby acknowledge that the Contest Entities have not and will not obtain or provide travel insurance or any other form of insurance.  Winner and travel companion must sign a Publicity, Liability Waiver and Travel Release form prior to traveling. If a selected event is unable to take place as scheduled, for reasons such as cancellation, preemption, postponement or unavailability, or for any reason beyond the control of the Contest Entities, the Contest Entities’ sole responsibility to a Winner will be to award the remaining available portion of the prize and no substitution will be provided for unawarded portion of prize. Tickets are subject to terms and conditions as specified by issuer.  Seat locations to be determined by Contest Entities.  Contest Entities reserve the right to remove or to deny entry to winner and/or guest if he/she engages in a disruptive manner, or with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other person at the reception. b.    In the event that a prize or prize certificate is mailed to the winner, it will be with the prior written consent of the winner and therefore, winner assumes the risk of its loss.  Southwest Airlines is not responsible for the safe arrival of a prize or prize certificate.   4.   Selection of Winners   Decisions of Contest Entities management with respect to the Contest are final.   a.    The first 25 individuals to Direct Message the Southwest Airlines account on Twitter.   b.    The odds of winning are dependant on the total number of entries received.     c.    Winner need not listen or be present to win   d.    Winners must execute and return any required affidavit of eligibility and/or liability/publicity release within one (1) day of notification attempt or prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner may be chosen at random. If a potential winner cannot be contacted, fails to sign and return the required affidavit of eligibility and liability/publicity release within the required time period, or if a prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, potential winner forfeits prize.   5.   Conditions   a.    Payments of all federal, state and local taxes are solely the responsibility of the winners.  Winners may be required to sign an IRS Form W-9 or the equivalent.   b.    By participating in the contest, the winner or winners agree to have their name, voice, or likeness used in any advertising or broadcasting material relating to this contest without additional financial or other compensation, and, where legal, to sign a publicity release confirming such consent prior to acceptance of the prize.   c.    Prior to awarding any prize or prize certificate, Southwest Airlines in its sole discretion may require contest winners (and their travel companions, if any) to sign a liability release, agreeing to hold Southwest Airlines, CBS Radio, Southwest Airlines, its corporate licensee, and each of their parent, subsidiary and affiliated corporations, and the officers, shareholders, directors, employees, agents and representatives of each of them harmless against any and all claims or liability arising directly or indirectly from the prize or participation in the Contest.   d.    Southwest Airlines, in is sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person tampering with the entry process, the operation of Southwest Airlines website or is otherwise in violation of the rules.  It further reserves the right to cancel, terminate or modify the contest if it is not capable of completion as planned, including infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention or technical failures of any sort.   e.    The Contest Entities reserve the right to make changes in the rules of the Contest, including the substitution of a prize or equivalent value, which will become effective upon announcement.  If due to circumstances beyond the control of Southwest Airlines, any competition or prize-related event is delayed, rescheduled, postponed or cancelled, Southwest Airlines reserves the right, but not the obligation, to cancel or modify the contest and shall not be required to award a substitute prize.   f.     Failure to comply with the Contest rules may result in a contestant’s disqualification solely at the discretion of the Contest Entities.   g.    The Contest Entities are not responsible for typographical or other errors in the printing, the offering or the administration of the Contest, or in the announcement of a prize.   h.    Copies of the written Contest rules and a list of winners (when complete) are available during regular business hours at Southwest Airlines Emerging Media 2502 Love Field Dr. Dallas, TX 75235       ... View more

  Southwest Airlines celebrated it's 38th birthday on June 18 at the New York Stock Exchange.  Take a look: http://www.nyse.com/events/1245406657390.html ... View more

Evanston, IL June 22, 2009 - A change has come to the top, the top of aviation geekdom that is. Courtney Miller, one of the daring-duo founders of the Airplane Geeks podcast (www.airplanegeeks.com) one year ago this week has produced his final show for the world famous Internet radio program as he moves on to a new job in Canada. Airplane Geeks is the always relevant look at the previous week's aviation-industry news with the occasional irreverent comment tossed in. Replacing Courtney Miller are two bloggers and podcasters already well known to Airplane Geeks listeners. Valiantly attempting to fill Court's shoes is Rob Mark, CEO of CommAvia, a commercial pilot, writer and editor of the award-winning industry blog Jetwhine.com - (www.jetwhine.com). Rob was named an Aerospace Journalist of the Year for 2009 at the Paris Air Show. Dan Webb, a sophomore at Bryant University writes the Things in the Sky Blog at (www.thingsinthesky.com). While listeners expressed sadness at Miller's decision to leave the podcast, co-host Max Flight said, "Courtney's leaving? Really?" Jetwhine editor Rob Mark said, "Although I learned quite a bit about being an airplane geek long before I met Court and Max, my daughter says I'll still fit right in." Webb added, "My coverage of both the shiny bits and the smudges within the airline industry should provide Rob and Max plenty to keep the discussion going." Some industry competitors, obviously fearing for their own jobs now that Max, Rob and Dan have teamed up, piped in with their two cents. Flightblogger's Jon Ostrower said, "The world will never be the same," while Aviation Week's high priestess of the aviation world online, Benet' Wilson, said, "I am delighted to hear that my old friend Rob Mark will become the new co-host of the Airplane Geeks podcast. His segments are sure to kill the podcast giving the rest of us a chance to do our own version of the show. Just kidding. Good luck guys." New episodes of the Airplane Geeks become available online and via RSS and iTunes each Tuesday afternoon. Airplane Geeks has also forged a new program syndication agreement with Flight Line Internet Radio - (www.flightlineinternetradio.com) - to run regular show segments. Jetwhine.com is the blog of aviation buzz and bold opinion at www.jetwhine.com. Things in the Sky can be found at www.thingsinthesky.com. Aviation Geek's Max Flight is also the host of the well-known aviation directory at www.thirtythousandfeet.com.  ... View more

  Aviation blogger/podcaster Dan Webb caught a few minutes with our CEO, Gary Kelly, at last week's AAAE convention in Philadelphia.  To hear Gary and Dan discuss fuel management, weak demand for business travel, and maintaining our Culture in tough economic times, visit Dan's blog at: http://boardingarea.com/blogs/thingsinthesky/2009/06/22/interviewing-southwest-ceo-gary-kelly/       ... View more

  TOP 50 Companies For Supplier Diversity By by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce and PODER staff Marcelo Peres Dalannays.It’s no secret that some of the nation’s leading corporations owe part of their success to minority owned contractors that help them run cost-effectively. But despite the benefit to corporations, support for these minority-owned businesses has a ways to go. “On average, for every dollar that a White-own[ed] firm makes, Hispanic-owned businesses made 56 cents,” says Ying Lowry from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy. A partnership between the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and PODER, this list reviews corporations that continue to improve and grow their supplier diversity programs by implementing innovative ideas and demonstrating commitment to inclusion—despite times of duress. Abercrombie & Fitch [Company Headquarters] New Albany, Ohio [2008 Revenues in millions] $3,540.3 [Why they’re on the list] As a design and fashion company that understands it must incorporate diversity into every aspect of its business, Abercrombie and Fitch looks to recruit young Latino designers and fashion entrepreneurs. [Company Website] www.abercrombie.com/anf/careers/diversity.html Alcatel-Lucent [HQ] Plano, Texas (subsidiary) [R] $26,205.8 [Why] The company’s approach to supplier diversity encourages the creation of small- to mid-size Latino technology companies. In the process, Alcatel-Lucent follows up with each supplier on a step-by-step basis to provide training and counsel. [W] www.alcatel-lucent.com/us AT&T [HQ] Dallas, Texas [R] $124,028 [Why] AT&T has one of the most ambitious supplier diversity programs. One of its most interesting initiatives is the capacity building funding AT&T gives to organizations to heavily recruit and train Latinas to become company suppliers. [W] http://www.wireless.att.com/about/doing-business/suppliers.jsp Avis Budget Group [HQ] Parsippany, New Jersey [R] $5,984 [Why] As part of their supplier diversity program, Avis’ local rental agencies seek out local car dealers as suppliers. Avis Budget also features minority and women suppliers in various national ads. [W] www.avisbudgetgroup.com Bank of America [HQ] Charlotte, North Carolina [R] $113,106 [Why] Since its inception in 1990, the supplier diversity program at Bank of America has had industry segmented diversity departments. This comprehensive approach allows BoA to walk applicants through the entire supplier diversity process. [W] http://careers.bankofamerica.com/learnmore/diversity.asp CBS Corp. [HQ] New York, New York [R] $13,950.4 [Why] As part of its outreach, CBS has hired Hispanic consulting firms and agents to go into their local communities to recruit small- and mid-size business suppliers. [W] http://www.cbscorporation.com/diversity/index.php Chevron Corp. [HQ] San Ramon, California [R] $263.159 [Why] Before the hype over green business, Chevron was already pioneering the field. For some time now Chevron has been working to convert its existing supplier diversity base into green supplier service producers as well as acquiring Hispanic eco-friendly suppliers. [W] http://www.chevron.com/productsservices/supplierdiversity Coca-Cola [HQ] Atlanta, Georgia [R] $31,944 [Why] One of the Coca-Cola’s corporate citizenship goals is to create more sustainable communities. In order to grow Hispanic businesses, Coca-Cola heavily exhorts its primary suppliers to go out into the community and find local minority second-tier and third-tier suppliers. [W] http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/citizenship/diversity.html Deloitte & Touche LLP [HQ] New York, New York [R] $27,400 (Private partnership) [Why] If one looks at supplier diversity by industry, accounting services account for less than one percent of services despite the number of Hispanic-led accounting firms in the country. For this reason, Deloitte has pioneered in the field by appointing Hispanic accounting suppliers. [W] www.deloitte.com FedEx [HQ] Memphis, Tennessee [R] $37,953 [Why] When it comes to supplier diversity, FedEx deploys local representatives to inform possible suppliers about the program and about how they might be suited to supply to FedEx. [W] www.fedex.com/us/officeprint/buspart/supplier/diversity.html Hilton Hotels Corp. [HQ] Beverly Hills, California [R] $3,535.6 [Why] Hilton Hotels has an extensive first-tier and second-tier supplier diversity program. In addition, Hilton releases information about projected buying cycles in order to inform suppliers about the company’s demands. [W] https://cvmas02.cvmsolutions.com/hilton554 The Home Depot [HQ] Atlanta, Georgia [R] $71,288 [Why] Home Depot invite suppliers to their headquarters in order to train them to improve their company operations so they become better suppliers. [W]http://corporate.homedepot.com/wps/portal/SupplierDiversity IBM Corp. [HQ] Armonk, New York [R] $103,630 [Why] IBM has participated in the U.S. Department of Defense’s Mentor-Protégé Program since 1997. The program seeks to increase the number of small businesses involved in the defense industry. IBM has mentored 12 firms during this time in areas such as marketing, ecommerce, technology training and certification, subcontracts, business partner development and teaming opportunities. [W] www.ibm.com JCPenney [HQ] Plano, Texas [R] $19,860 [Why] JCPenney is a 30-year veteran of supplier diversity. The company looks closely at consumer trends and relies on Hispanic suppliers to help stores offer compelling merchandise and services that will increase this demographic’s customer loyalty. [W] www.jcpenney.net/inclusion_diversity/supplier_div/default.aspx JP Morgan Chase [HQ] New York, New York [R] $101,491 [Why] JP Morgan Chase’s goal is to make supplier diversity synonymous with access to capital. JP hosted the first Capital Summit 2008 in New York City. The aim of the conference was to ensure procurement by matching equity funding to suppliers. Through the process of pairing huge equities with smaller businesses, JP mentored and sponsored the growth of minority suppliers’ companies. [W] www.jpmorganchase.com Kaiser Permanente [HQ] Oakland, California [R] $37,800 (Private Not-for-Profit) [Why] As an efficient medical not-for-profit concern, Kaiser heavily believes in educating the community about its supplier base. It also has many seminars on how businesses could provide products and services in the health industry. [W] http://xnet.kp.org/supplierdiversity/index.html Eastman Kodak Co. [HQ] Rochester, New York [R] $9,416 [Why] Since its creation in 1989, the supplier diversity program at Kodak has increased business relationships with minorities across the board. However if there was an award to be given to CEOs for direct involvement with supplier diversity it would go to Eastman Kodak’s Antonio M. Perez. The heads of supplier diversity within the company report directly to the CEO about procurement efforts. Perez also makes a priority of doing personal outreach and appearing at supplier diversity-related events. [W] www.kodak.com Kraft Foods Inc. [HQ] Northfield, Illinois [R] $42,867 [Why] With many subsidiaries across the country, Kraft heavily depends on them to buy locally in their communities. The subsidiaries employ first-tier and multiple-tier suppliers in products, raw materials, and services. [W] www.kraftfoodscompany.com Lockheed Martin [HQ] Bethesda, Maryland [R] $42,731 [Why] Lockheed Martin looks at supplier diversity as a comprehensive effort. A long-time promoter of diverse suppliers, Lockheed Martin hires consultants to meet and examine companies and provide training and assistance to small- and mid-size businesses that want to become suppliers. [W] www.lockheedmartin.com/suppliers/supplier-diversity/index.html L’Oreal [HQ] New York, New York (subsidiary) [R] $24,726.6 [Why] L’Oreal has a goal of drawing more Latinas into the science industry. For this reason, L’Oreal joins efforts with organizations across the country to either fund or create training programs that encourage Latinas to become science and pharmaceutical suppliers. [W] www.lorealusa.com Macy’s [HQ] Cincinnati, Ohio [R] $24,892 [Why] Macy’s encourages Hispanic suppliers to participate in placing merchandise within stores. [W] www.macysinc.com/diversitymanagement Mattel [HQ] El Segundo, California [R] $5,918 [Why] Mattel is one of the few companies that recruits non-traditional suppliers for services such as insurance or accounting. An interesting aspect of the company is its global supplier program by which local suppliers can become global suppliers for Mattel subsidiaries around the world. [W] www.mattel.com/about_us/Diversity/supplier_diversity.asp Merrill Lynch [HQ] New York, New York [R] $16,784 [Why] Despite how difficult it can be for minority companies to break into Wall Street, Merrill Lynch’s program brings in financial companies to become sameindustry services suppliers. [W] www.ml.com MetLife [HQ] New York, New York [R] $55,085 [Why] MetLife encourages local agencies and organizations to heavily recruit in order to bring in more minority suppliers, for both goods and services. [W] www.metlife.com MGM Mirage [HQ] Las Vegas, Nevada [R] $7,208.8 [Why] With an expanding $150 million supplier diversity portfolio, what could be the strength of their program? MGM mirage participates in numerous trade shows to identify potential suppliers. MGM also joined with the American Gaming Association in announcing a Tier II Reporting program. [W] www.mgmmiragediversity.com Microsoft Corp. [HQ] Redmond, Washington [R] $60,420 [Why] Microsoft heavily recruits suppliers in the Latino tech world. Instead of buying-out new technology or services, Microsoft establishes and fosters business relationships with technology entrepreneurs. [W] www.microsoft.com Motorola [HQ] Schaumburg, Illinois [R] $30,146 [Why] Motorola is heavily investing in recruiting minority technology companies to turn them into research and development suppliers. [W] www.motorola.com Nordstrom [HQ] Seattle, Washington [R] $8,573 [Why] Nordstrom recruits minority vendors for merchandise, supplies, services and construction. All departments work in unison in to give the supplier immediate feedback. Nordstrom also highly recruits Latina suppliers. [W] about.nordstrom.com/aboutus/diversity/supplier.asp NY Life Insurance Co. [HQ] New York, New York [R] $21,123 [Why] Initiatives involve minority inclusion in non–traditional areas such as management consultants and investment firms. [W] www.newyorklife.com/supplierdiversity Offi ce Depot [HQ] Boca Raton, Florida [R] $14,495.5 [Why] Office Depot heavily engages organizations to host events in order to scout first-tier suppliers. [W] www.officedepot.com Pepsi Bottling Group [HQ] Sommers, New York [R] $13,796 [Why] Pepsi Bottling established national and local diversity advisory boards in order to ensure procurements efforts. Pepsi is also a leader in maximizing suppliers in non-traditional segments. [W] www.pbg.com/about/diversity.html PG&E Co. [HQ] San Francisco, California [R] $14,628 [Why] PG&E has engaged Latino entrepreneurs to train the next generation of Latino suppliers in alternative energy resources. [W] www.pge.com/b2b/purchasing/supplierdiversity Principal Financial Group [HQ] Des Moines, Iowa [R] $9,935.9 [Why] Regional managers engage local community leaders in order to create events and reach out to potential suppliers. [W] www.principal.com/about/diversity/index.htm Shell Oil Co. [HQ] Houston, Texas (subsidiary) [R] $2,147.5 [Why] As company business grows and new segments are created, suppliers are recruited from project inception in order to guarantee procurement in every sector of the company.[W] www.shell.us Sodexho N.A. [HQ] Gaithersburg, Maryland (subsidiary) [R] $19,966 [Why] Besides providing a range of regional-to-national supplier opportunities, the company appointed a Hispanic member to its board who engages with the community as it relates to supplier diversity issues. [W] www.sodexousa.com Southwest Airlines [HQ] Dallas, Texas [R] $11,023 [Why] Southwest Airlines is the airline sponsor for all supplier diversity events of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, both regional and national. Southwest also heavily recruits minority aerospace service industry suppliers. [W] www.southwest.com Sprint Nextel Corp. [HQ] Overland Park, Kansas [R] $35,635 [Why] The Sprint campus project—one of the largest single and continuous office development projects ever to be built in the country—provided business opportunities for minority owned businesses, resulting in over $82 million contract committed dollars. [W] www.sprint.com/supplierdiversity Starwood Hotels [HQ] White Plains, New York [R] $5,907 [Why] Starwood created a Minority Hotel Owner and Developer Program. The program allows for different hotels under the Starwood name to seek out different suppliers based on the brand needs of each particular hotel. [W] www.starwoodhotels.com StateFarm Insurance [HQ] Bloomington, Illinois [R] $61,343.4 [Why] What sets StateFarm apart from other companies is the amount of media procurement it offers to Hispanic and minority-owned firms. By outsourcing public relations work, StateFarm is leading in the effort to procure vital segments of the company to minorities. [W] b2b.statefarm.com/b2b/supplier/supdiv.asp SUPERVALU Inc. [HQ] Eden Prairie, Minnesota [R] $44,048 [Why] SUPERVALU has one of the most extensive supplier diversity outreach programs. Through SUPERVALU’s nationwide supply chain network, the company provides distribution and related logistics support services to more than 5,000 grocery endpoints across the country. [W] www.supervalu.com Target [HQ] Minneapolis, Minnesota [R] $64,948 [Why] Target supports a diverse business climate by participating in supplier trade fairs across the country and by its involvement in national and local consortiums. Most recently, through its innovative supplier diversity program, Target introduced Hispanic suppliers to the Food Marketing Institute, connecting suppliers with an important industry leader. [W] www.target.com Time Warner Cable [HQ] New York, New York [R] $17,200 [Why] Time Warner empowers regional offices to look for minority suppliers in the community through local representation. [W] www.twsupplierdiversity.com Toyota Motor Manufacturing [HQ] Georgetown, Kentucky [R] $698.8 [Why] Toyota Motor Manufacturing’s training program teaches existing as well as future suppliers to be competitive by making sure that they will meet company standards. [W] www.toyotasupplier.com Tyson Foods [HQ] Springdale, Arkansas [R] $ 28,130 [Why] Tyson is effective in conveying product information and working with sales forces. Tyson also distributes advertising and promotional information and sales training materials to suppliers in the food service industry. [W] www.tyson.com/Corporate/B2B/SupplierDiversity Verizon Communications [HQ] New York, New York [R] $97,354 [Why] Verizon has engaged every sector of the company to have supplier diversity components. In 2008 alone they purchased $3.8 billion in goods and services from minority companies. Verizon has also created a Supplier Excellence Program, which recognizes those suppliers of products and services that exhibit performance excellence during the year. [W] www.verizon.com Wachovia/Wells Fargo [HQ] Chicago, Illinois [R] $51,652 [Why] Wells Fargo creates industryspecific events to promote supplier diversity. Since merging with Wachovia, Wells Fargo now has expanded its staff to train its suppliers. [W] www.wellsfargo.com/about/diversity Wal-mart Stores Inc. [HQ] Bentonville, Arkansas [R] $405,607 [Why] Wal-mart was one of the first companies to make supplier diversity a part of its sustainability and corporate citizenship program. Wal-mart has one of the most extensive programs, comprised of more than 2,500 diverse suppliers. In 2008, Wal-mart’s supplier diversity program was valued at $6 billion, a 25 percent increase since 2007. [W] walmartstores.com/Diversity/253.aspx Weyerhaeuser [HQ] Federal Way, Washington [R] $11,401 [Why] Weyerhaeuser engages suppliers in every single sector of its operation, one of the world’s largest forest products companies. With one of the most engaging supplier diversity programs, Weyerhaeser seeks out Hispanics in the agricultural world across sectors to become suppliers and build a varied base. [W] www.weyerhaeuser.com/Company/ Suppliers/Diversity Wyndham Worldwide [HQ] Parsippany, New Jersey [R] $4,281 [Why] Wyndham Worldwide’s accepts small businesses with working capital of $500,000 as first-tier suppliers. [W] www.wyndhamworldwide.com Xerox [HQ] Norwalk, Connecticut [R] $17,608 [Why] Xerox has received numerous recognitions for its supplier diversity program. Xerox’s engagement of minorities translates into supplier diversity opportunities outside of the company. Xerox employees become advocates who are allowed to propose suppliers to the company. [W] www.xerox.com   For more information on Southwest Airlines in the community, visit: http://www.southwest.com/about_swa/southwest_cares/   ... View more

from the Associated Press  ·  2009-06-19    A rundown of baggage fees at major U.S. airlines: American Airlines, AirTran Airways, Continental Airlines: $15 for the first checked piece of luggage, $25 for the second. Alaska Air: Passengers traveling on tickets purchased before May 1, or for travel before July 7, can check one bag for free. The second bag is $25. Beginning July 7, Alaska is adding a $15 charge for the first bag. Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines: $15 for the first, $25 for the second. For international tickets, the first two checked bags are still free. But for flights to Europe, Delta and Northwest are adding a $50 charge for the second checked bag beginning with tickets bought May 23 for travel beginning July 1. JetBlue Airways: First bag is free, $20 for the second. Southwest Airlines: FIRST TWO BAGS ARE FREE. United Airlines: $15 for the first, $25 for the second, if paid online. If paid at the airport, United adds an extra $5 for tickets purchased beginning May 14. US Airways: $15 for the first, $25 for the second. Beginning with flights on July 9, US Airways will add $5 if the fee is paid at the airport for tickets purchased beginning April 23. Note: All charges are for domestic flights, except where noted for Delta. The charges generally don't apply to first-class or business-class travelers, high-level frequent fliers and some other categories of passengers, such as active-duty military personnel.   Source: Airline Web sites   ... View more

This blogger snapped some great photos of the Southwest porch that opened in NYC's Bryant Park today.  Take a look... http://elaineperlov.blogspot.com/2009/06/southwest-porch-at-bryant-park-opens.html ... View more

THE SOUTHWEST PORCH AT BRYANT PARK TO OFFER VISITORS A ONE-OF-A-KIND EXPERIENCE * * * The Plush Summer Lounge, Created by Southwest Airlines, Celebrates New Travel Service at LaGuardia Airport   NEW YORK, June 19--Southwest Airlines, the country’s largest domestic airline, has announced the opening of The Southwest Porch at Bryant Park, a brand new al fresco lounge that will provide New Yorkers and visitors alike with a fun seasonal venue to enjoy summer evenings in the center of one of New York City’s most beloved public parks.  The Porch opens to the public today—complete with porch swings, rocking chairs and Adirondack chairs— and is part of the airline’s campaign to celebrate its new service into and out of LaGuardia Airport beginning June 28th.  Southwest will offer eight daily nonstop departures for New Yorkers--five daily nonstop flights between Chicago Midway and LaGuardia and three daily nonstop departures between Baltimore/Washington and LaGuardia.   The new service at LaGuardia will create over 40 new jobs for New Yorkers—from managers and marketers to gate agents and baggage handlers.  In addition, Southwest is promoting travel and tourism to New York in print and out-of-home media, radio, on-line, in-flight and non-traditional marketing, with particular focus in Chicago and Baltimore/Washington.   Southwest is the first corporate entity to sign on to Mayor Bloomberg’s Middle School Mentorship initiative, recently announced as part of the  NYC Service campaign, and has committed its New York City based employees to participate in this mentorship program.  Southwest will partner with MS 8—New Prep Middle School in Jamaica, Queens, to provide mentors for the City’s newly launched Middle School Mentors initiative.  The Middle School Mentors initiative recognizes the middle school years as a critical time for youth and knows that mentors are a proven intervention to helping students stay connected to school and succeed.    “With the inauguration of Southwest Airlines service at LaGuardia, we are incredibly proud to be bringing the signature Southwest spirit to all New Yorkers at The Southwest Porch at Bryant Park,” said Gary Kelly, CEO of Southwest Airlines.  “The unparalleled customer service in the air that our Southwest employees around the country are so well-known for will now be enjoyed at this unique outdoor venue. We hope everyone will come to relax and have fun at the Porch while enjoying our custom menu created by the incredible chefs of ‘wichcraft.”   “Creating jobs and making New York City an easier place to visit and do business is a central part of our five borough economic opportunity plan, and Southwest’s arrival at LaGuardia is a great step forward on both those fronts,” said Robert C. Lieber, New York City Deputy Mayor for Economic Development. “There’s no better time to visit New York City and experience all the wonderful cultural amenities, restaurants, shopping, neighborhoods and waterfront and now, it’s easier than ever to get here.”   Located in Bryant Park’s southwest corner, the Porch is open to all New Yorkers and visitors who simply want to relax, read, converse or have a bite and a drink.   “The new Southwest Porch at Bryant Park will offer the thousands of tourists and residents who pass by Bryant Park every day a great new place to relax and enjoy all that Midtown has to offer," said Adrian Benepe, New York City Parks & Recreation Commissioner. “This is another great example of great, free summer activities – from concerts to kayaking, we hope that all New Yorkers and visitors will have a chance to take advantage of the outdoors this season.”   “The launch of Southwest’s new service offers visitors one more easy and affordable way to travel to New York City,” said George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company.  “New York City provides unprecedented value to visitors of all ages and interests, and we invite everyone to experience the five boroughs this summer.”   The Southwest Porch at Bryant Park features a small bites menu in collaboration with ‘wichcraft, the popular casual eatery founded by Tom Colicchio, renowned chef and owner of the Craft family of restaurants and head judge of Bravo’s Top Chef, with partners Sisha Ortúzar and Jeffrey Zurofsky, that has been a pillar of the Bryant Park community since 2003. Menu highlights include New York Meatball Sandwich, Southwestern Pork Sandwich and Baltimore Crab Sandwich.  On tap are local beers, such as a specially brewed Southwest Summer Ale from Blue Point Brewery and selection of summer cocktails.   “On behalf of my partners Sisha Ortúzar and Jeffrey Zurofsky, we are pleased to welcome Southwest Airlines to New York City and very proud to work with them on the Southwest Porch at Bryant Park,” said Tom Colicchio, co-founder of ‘wichcraft. “For ‘wichcraft, this is a natural collaboration and a great opportunity to work with a company that cares about its customers as much as we do.  We hope our fellow New Yorkers come out to our spot in Bryant Park to put their feet up and enjoy summer in the city with a touch of Southwest’s hospitality.”   “The Porch will be an outstanding amenity available to all Bryant Park patrons,” said Daniel A. Biederman, executive director of the Bryant Park Corporation. “It’s another example of how Bryant Park continues to innovate to better serve all New Yorkers.”   The Southwest Porch at Bryant Park welcomes approximately 175 visitors to the southwest corner of Bryant Park.  The new venue is open to the public at all times, with extra services available from June 19th through mid-September, Monday through Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Fridays from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.     About ‘wichcraft   Tom Colicchio, chef and owner of the Craft family of restaurants and head judge of Bravo's Top Chef, founded 'wichcraft with partners Sisha Ortuzar and Jeffrey Zurofsky in 2003. The three had a long history of working together in fine dining restaurants such as Manhattan's top-rated Gramercy Tavern and Craft, but this collaboration was decidedly more casual. They created 'wichcraft, a sandwich service like no other.   The 'wichcraft menu includes breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, salads, and pastries - all made from scratch daily. We prepare almost everything in our own kitchen, which allows us to hand pick each ingredient and ensure unparalleled quality. We slow roast, braise, and poach our sandwich meats; we hand pull mozzarella; and we bake pastries and spin ice creams each morning. Whenever possible we work with small producers, use greenmarket vegetables and serve sustainably raised meat. And when there's a great local artisanal item that just can't be improved upon it very likely may end up on the menu. Even our beverages come from companies that share our commitment to quality, including coffee from La Columbe, soda from Boylan Bottling Company and teas from In Pursuit of Tea.   About Southwest Airlines Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines--offering a reliable product with exemplary customer service, and no hidden fees. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom. Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest Airlines even more convenient. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 65 cities (adding Boston Logan in the fall) in 33 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 employees systemwide.   About Bryant Park Corporation Bryant Park Corporation (BPC), a private not-for-profit company, was founded in 1980 to renovate, finance, and operate Bryant Park in New York City. BPC is funded by income from events, concessions, and corporate sponsors, as well as an assessment on neighboring properties, and does not accept government or philanthropic monies. In addition to providing security and sanitation services, and tending the park's lush lawn and seasonal garden displays, BPC provides public amenities and activities, including movable chairs and tables, café umbrellas, restaurants, food kiosks, world-class restrooms, and a wide range of free events throughout the year. The Midtown park, conveniently located at 6th Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets, is visited by over 5 million people each year and is one of the busiest public spaces in the world.  BPC’s website, www.bryantpark.org, is available for more detailed information and a schedule of upcoming events. # # #   ... View more

via Gadling by Tom Johansmeyer on 6/19/09 When you take that early Monday morning flight, you know you're kicking off a marathon. If you're a business traveler, you'll have five days of meetings, late nights and team dinners that deprive you of sleep, push your personal relationships to the periphery and generally dominate every ounce of your life. This is the path the business traveler has chosen. So, any measures that reduce anxiety and otherwise make life easier are priceless. For me, this meant developing a pre-flight ritual that brought me a little more sleep-time, helped me remember to pack everything and ensured that I'd have nothing to worry about once I stepped out the door. To read Tom's 5 tips for successful business travel, visit:  http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/19/business-travelers-five-pre-flight-rituals/   ... View more

  AOL and Comcast Top the MSN Money 2009 Customer Service Hall of Shame   USAA, Trader Joe's and Netflix receive top customer service marks; financial institution rankings drop as discounters' and supermarkets' rankings rise during year of economic crisis. REDMOND, Wash., June 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- MSN Money today released its third annual Customer Service Hall of Shame and Hall of Fame survey results, finding that as the economy worsened this past year, so did Americans' satisfaction with customer service from some of the nation's top companies. The Customer Service Hall of Shame and Fame is a collaboration of MSN Money and polling firm Zogby International, which ranked 145 companies based on consumers' customer service experiences. The survey was taken in late April 2009. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO) For the second year, AOL retained its crown as consumer's top pick for worst customer service. The Internet service provider received "poor" marks on its customer service experience from nearly 45 percent of respondents. Cable provider Comcast was a close second with 41 percent of consumers rating their experience as "poor." "The annual MSN Money Hall of Shame and Hall of Fame survey gives people the opportunity to rant and rave about their retail and service experiences," said Lisa Gurry, director, MSN Division of Microsoft. "Interestingly, in this economic climate, people praised companies that deliver great value, whether it's low-cost entertainment or bulk food, while panning financial institutions." Banks and credit card issuers fared noticeably worse this year when it came to pleasing customers. Bank of America, Capital One and HSBC all made repeat appearances on the Customer Service Hall of Shame list. They were joined by the only new company on 2009's list, Citibank, which replaced Cox Communications, the only company to drop off the list. In addition to banks, telecommunication companies continued to be seen as poor customer service providers by consumers, with Sprint, Time Warner Cable and Qwest joining AOL and Comcast in the top 10. Abercrombie & Fitch was the only retailer on the list.         Customer Service Hall of Shame         No. 1  AOL         No. 2  Comcast         No. 3  Sprint         No. 4  Capital One         No. 5  Time Warner Cable         No. 6  HSBC         No. 7  Qwest         No. 8  Abercrombie & Fitch         No. 9  Bank of America         No. 10 Citigroup Doing Things Right On the flip side of the coin, discount retailers and supermarkets continued to satisfy the public with their customer service as six retailers were recognized in the Hall of Fame. Grocers, in particular, stood out -- with Trader Joe's, Publix, Whole Foods and Costco all being ranked among the nation's best companies for customer service.         Customer Service Hall of Fame         No. 1  USAA         No. 2  Trader Joe's         No. 3  Netflix         No. 4  Amazon         No. 5  Nordstrom         No. 6  Publix         No. 7  Whole Foods         No. 8  Apple Computer         No. 9  Costco         No. 10 Southwest Airlines The MSN Money-Zogby International survey listed companies in 15 industries, which also included airlines, hotels, mail delivery outfits and online service providers. Survey respondents were asked if they had experience with each company's customer service and, if so, to rate it "excellent," "good," "fair" or "poor." Companies were ranked based on the percentage of opinion responses that were "poor." Each year, companies in the Hall of Shame are given the opportunity to respond to the survey. Consumers can find full rankings and a detailed breakdown of survey results at http://money.msn.com. About MSN and Windows Live Overall, MSN, Windows Live and Microsoft.com attract more than 550 million unique users worldwide per month. With localized versions available globally in 42 markets and 21 languages, MSN is a world leader in delivering Web services to consumers and online advertising opportunities to businesses worldwide. MSN partnered with Control Room to stream Live Earth, one of the largest online entertainment events in history, with over 62 million streams worldwide. Most recently, Microsoft and BermanBraun Interactive partnered to create "Wonderwall," a new innovative entertainment and celebrity content destination from MSN.   ... View more

Southwest Airlines today offered a statement in response to the “no” vote released by the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association on the tentative agreement it had with the Company: “We are naturally disappointed and acknowledge it was a very close vote,” said Chuck Magill, Vice President of Flight Operations for Southwest Airlines. “We reached a tentative agreement in good faith, and both sides put a lot of effort into getting to this point. We have an outstanding and highly productive group of Pilots, and we appreciate their active involvement in the voting process. We welcome the opportunity for our negotiating teams to re-engage and work toward an agreement that best meets the needs of our Company and our outstanding Pilots during these challenging economic times.”   Southwest Airlines Media Contact: 214/792-4847   www.southwest.com   ... View more

Our social media super star, Christi Day , is currently featured in an article in the Fashion & Style section of the New York Times. Tweeting Your Way to a Job, by By Suzanne DeChillo/The New York Times "At some companies, only those with a bold personality and a dab hand at Twitter need apply. Consider @Christi5321 or, as her friends and family know her, Christi Day, a bubbly 25-year-old specialist in emerging media at Southwest Airlines" To read more, visit: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/21/fashion/21whiz.html?_r=1     ... View more

Southwest Airlines’ Rapping Flight Attendant, David Holmes, explains Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in a “GAAP Rap” at the 2009 Shareholder’s Meeting held at the Company’s Dallas headquarters today.  ... View more

Southwest Airlines Employee Christi Day talks with her father, Southwest Maintenance Operations Controller Steve Day, about our aircrafts’ hydraulic system. ... View more

  Houston's ABC 13 recently ran a news story featuring Southwest Airlines Captain Dick East and his efforts to support the families of the Ronald McDonald House.  To view, click HERE.  ... View more

Southwest Airlines Employee Christi Day talks with her father, Southwest Maintenance Operations Controller Steve Day, about aircraft flaps - the movable panels on the wings’ edges that extend and retract to help create “lift” during takeoff and landing. ... View more

Our first quarter 2009 earnings conference call transcript is now available at: http://www.southwest.com/investor_relations/fs_events_calendar.html ... View more

Gary Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer and Laura Wright, Senior Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer will discuss our first quarter 2009 results on a conference call with media and financial analysts at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time today (Thursday). While only approved media and financial analysts are able to participate in the call, if you would like to listen in, a live broadcast will be available at http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=57486.  ... View more

Southwest Airlines’ 2008 shareholder’s meeting was of the most historic in our 37 year history.  Our CEO, Gary Kelly, outlined the many challenges we would face in the coming year owing to rising fuel costs and a slowing economy.  And, our legendary co-founder and chairman of the board, Herb Kelleher, stepped down from his chairman position and officially handed over the gavel to Gary, amidst a tear-jerking tribute from our pilots. But it was a much less publicized change that captured the attention of a few curious Employees.  After nearly 30 years, long-time Southwest Leader Bob Jordan had shaved his mustache. Public Relations Manager Whitney Eichinger was greeting shareholders and media in the lobby when she first made the discovery. “Oh my gosh,” Eichinger exclaimed.  “I almost died when I saw him.  I was so excited, I had to tell someone.”  Eichinger immediately sent a text message to colleague Paula Berg who was planning to watch the shareholder’s meeting from a second floor in-circuit television. “When I read Whitney’s text, I dropped what I was doing and ran to the television to see if I could catch a glimpse” said Berg.  The shareholder’s meeting began promptly at 10:00 a.m., shortly after which, Southwest Airlines Chief Executive Officer Gary Kelly asked his Executive Planning Committee to please stand.  Just as Bob Jordan turned to wave to the crowd, the camera panned by him giving many Employees their first-ever glimpse of Bob Jordan “sans stash.”    “Yatzee,” cried Berg, informing everyone in the immediate vicinity that Bob Jordan had, in fact, shaved his mustache and that she had just seen it on the screen. “My college-aged kids had both been after me for years to get rid of it,” Jordan later said, when he was accosted by Eichinger and Berg.  “It wasn't until a friend at the gym told me ‘Dude – having a moustache is like having a mullet’ that I decided to get rid of it.”   ... View more