Southwest Airlines Community

Daily Service to San Jose del Cabo/Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, from Oakland Intl. Airport to begin Feb. 12, 2017, subject to governmental approvals This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today filed an application with the U. S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to offer the first U.S. carrier nonstop service between Oakland International Airport and both San Jose del Cabo/Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, beginning in February 2017, subject to governmental approvals. Once approved, the carrier’s flight schedule and fares will be published on Southwest.com. "Linking the San Francisco Bay Area to these popular Mexican beach resort areas with time-­ saving itineraries brings our Customers low-­fare and high-­value service that is an exciting addition to our growing international portfolio,” said Leah Koontz, Southwest Vice President who announced the proposed flights to gathered guests and media near the carrier’s Oakland Ticket Counter. "We’re adding nonstop service that extends the reach of Oakland’s convenient airport experience to two top-­ranking international destinations without a nonstop option.” "Los Cabos, in particular, is the most requested international destination from the East Bay and North Bay that does not have a nonstop option,” said Bryant L. Francis, C.M., Director of Aviation for The Port of Oakland. "Southwest’s continual investment, especially with new medium-­haul and long-­haul flights has made Oakland International the fastest growing major airport in California in terms of passengers, and they’re enjoying unprecedented value and reliability.” The Port is undertaking a major renovation of Terminal One: a new security checkpoint and international check-­in and arrivals area is scheduled to be completed in the second quarter of 2017;; a modernization and expansion of the airport’s passenger federal inspection station (FIS) for U.S. Customs & Border Protection services is scheduled to be completed in the third quarter of 2017. About Southwest & Oakland International Airport According to the most recent figures available from the U.S. Department of Transportation, Southwest carries the most passengers to and from the San Francisco Bay Area through its operations at the region’s three major commercial airports. Southwest’s 120 departures a day at Oakland International Airport comprise the carrier’s biggest operation in Northern California, transporting the majority of the airport’s 11 million annual travelers to nearly 30 destinations across the United States, with additional connecting or same-­plane service to another two dozen cities. Southwest has more than 2,600 Oakland-­based Employees and has hired more than 750 locally based Employees since January 2014. Oakland International is the fourth busiest airport in California and the second busiest in the San Francisco Bay Area, the closest airport for most local residents and to the region’s top tourism and entertainment venues. Oakland International is operated by The Port of Oakland, which also oversees the Oakland seaport and 20 miles of waterfront. For airport maps, and details on shopping, dining, transportation, and more, visit www.oaklandairport.com. About Southwest Airlines Co. In its 46th year of service, Dallas-­based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 98 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries with service to three airports in Cuba expected to begin later this year, subject to government approvals. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-­based WiFi providing gate-­to-­gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-­demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. The airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. A new logo, aircraft livery, interior design featuring a new seat and Flight Attendant galley, Employee-­designed uniforms, and an updated airport experience all showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees who connect Customers with what’s important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-­I-­FLY-­SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-­media assets and other Company   # # # ... View more

This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) (the "Company") today reported its June, second quarter, and year-to-date preliminary traffic statistics. The Company flew 11.5 billion revenue passenger miles (RPMs) in June 2016, an increase of 6.8 percent from the 10.8 billion RPMs flown in June 2015. Available seat miles (ASMs) increased 5.4 percent to 13.1 billion in June 2016, compared with June 2015 ASMs of 12.5 billion. The June 2016 load factor was a record for the month of June at 87.4 percent, compared with 86.2 percent in June 2015. The Company continues to estimate its second quarter 2016 operating revenue per ASM (RASM) will increase less than 1.0 percent as compared with second quarter 2015. This release, as well as past news releases about Southwest Airlines Co., is available online at Southwest.com. Southwest Airlines Co. Preliminary Comparative Traffic Statistics   JUNE         2016 2015   Change Revenue passengers carried 11,119,189 10,520,004   5.7% Enplaned passengers 13,624,089 12,908,502   5.5% Revenue passenger miles (000s) 11,489,804 10,757,440   6.8% Available seat miles (000s) 13,149,697 12,475,838   5.4% Load factor 87.4% 86.2%   1.2 pts. Average length of haul 1,033 1,023   1.0% Trips flown 113,431 110,038   3.1%     SECOND QUARTER         2016 2015   Change Revenue passengers carried 32,340,969 30,800,742   5.0% Enplaned passengers 39,479,241 37,670,284   4.8% Revenue passenger miles (000s) 32,707,694 30,858,381   6.0% Available seat miles (000s) 38,225,282 36,476,030   4.8% Load factor 85.6% 84.6%   1.0 pts. Average length of haul 1,011 1,002   0.9% Trips flown 334,452 326,309   2.5%     YEAR-TO-DATE         2016 2015   Change Revenue passengers carried 60,944,448 57,243,738   6.5% Enplaned passengers 74,107,682 69,769,242   6.2% Revenue passenger miles (000s) 61,115,858 56,719,247   7.8% Available seat miles (000s) 73,493,431 68,773,495   6.9% Load factor 83.2% 82.5%   0.7 pts. Average length of haul 1,003 991   1.2% Trips flown 648,989 622,879   4.2% Investor Contact: Southwest Airlines Investor Relations 214-792-4415 Media Contact: Southwest Airlines Media Relations 214-792-4847 swamedia@wnco.com   # # # ... View more

Book flights now at Southwest.com for travel through March 8, 2017 This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today extended the carrier's bookable flight schedule from Jan. 5 through March 8, 2017, with new options for travelers seeking snow or sun during the deep winter months. In celebration of two new, weekly nonstop offerings to operate during the winter season, Southwest® is offering special fares (purchase today through July 14, 2016, 11:59 p.m. in the respective time zone of the originating city, for travel on Saturdays beginning Jan. 7 through March 4, 2017, between Dallas and Reno; and for travel on Saturdays beginning Dec. 17, 2016, through March 4, 2017, between Newark and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Please see below for complete terms & conditions for these fares) now available at Southwest.com. Seasonally on Saturdays beginning Dec. 17, 2016, Southwest will fly nonstop between: Newark & San Juan, Puerto Rico          for as low as $128 or 7,561 Rapid Rewards® Points* Seasonally on Saturdays beginning Jan. 7, 2017, Southwest will fly nonstop between: Dallas Love Field & Reno-Tahoe            for as low as $119 or 7,025 Rapid Rewards® Points* *Points bookings do not include taxes, fees, and other government/airport charges of at least $5.60 per one-way flight "Winter brings our planners a great opportunity to use available aircraft time to put our amazing People and comfortable planes on nonstop routes that can cure our Customers' winter blues," said Adam Decaire, Southwest's Managing Director of Network Planning. "Whether it's skiing or surfing that entices them to fly, we're pleased to bring these time-saving itineraries coupled with our world famous Customer Service and Value." Other markets in the schedule extension include weekend service between Ft. Myers & Buffalo, Flint, Providence, and Washington Reagan National, and Kansas City, daily. Other weekend service links Orlando & Detroit, Flint, Richmond, Va., and Omaha. The carrier also intends to fly nonstop on Saturdays between Ft. Lauderdale & Minneapolis/St. Paul. In addition, Southwest has optimized its flight schedules to bring additional flights for football fans traveling with their favorite team in mid-September by adding special nonstop service out for sale today between Oakland and New Orleans (weekend of Sept. 9-12, 2016) as well as Columbus and Oklahoma City (weekend of Sept. 16-18, 2016). FARE TERMS & CONDITIONS Purchase today through July 14, 2016, 11:59 p.m. in the respective time zone of the originating city. Domestic travel is valid Jan. 7—March 4, 2017. Travel to/from San Juan, Puerto Rico valid Dec.17, 2016, through March 4, 2017. Domestic travel is valid only on Saturdays. Travel to/from San Juan, Puerto Rico is valid only on Saturdays. Fares are valid only on domestic, nonstop service. Displayed prices include all U.S. and international government taxes and fees. Points bookings do not include taxes, fees, and other government/airport charges of at least $5.60 per one-way flight. Seats and days are limited. Fares may vary by destination, flight, and day of week and won't be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Travel is available for one-way Wanna Get Away® fares. Fares may be combined with other Southwest Airlines® combinable fares. If combining with other fares, the most restrictive fare's rules apply. Sale fares may be available on other days of week, but not guaranteed. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward future travel on Southwest Airlines®, so long as reservations are canceled at least ten minutes prior to the scheduled departure of the flight. Failure to cancel prior to departure will result in forfeiture of remaining funds in the reservation. Any change in an itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Standby travel requires an upgrade to the Anytime fare. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Offer applies only to published, scheduled service. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 46th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 98 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries with service to three airports in Cuba to begin later this year, subject to government approvals. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. The airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. A new logo, aircraft livery, interior design featuring a new seat and Flight Attendant galley, Employee-designed uniforms, and an updated airport experience all showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees who connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1   # # # ... View more

Daily flights expected to begin in 2016 from Ft. Lauderdale to three Cuban cities: Havana, Varadero, and Santa Clara, along with daily nonstop service from Tampa to Havana This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today welcomed news from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that the carrier has been preliminarily awarded authority to serve Havana with twice daily nonstop service from Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and once daily nonstop service from Tampa Bay International Airport. Pending finalized authority from DOT and subject to requisite approvals from the Cuban government, Southwest® confirms it will begin its Cuba service later this year to Havana (HAV), along with previously awarded service to Varadero (VRA) and Santa Clara (SNU). The carrier will have a total of five daily departures from Ft. Lauderdale (Miami Area) to Cuba—two to Havana, two to Varadero, and one to Santa Clara—plus one daily departure from Tampa to Havana. "Our Countdown to Cuba continues with new enthusiasm, and we're finalizing plans to bring our world famous value and Customer Service to these emerging U.S. travel markets," said Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines Chairman, President, & CEO. "As the largest carrier of domestic passengers in the United States*, these nonstop flights from two of our Florida focus cities will provide high-quality, low-fare service to our Customers while also offering convenient connections to Cuba for dozens of U.S. cities across the Southwest network." Southwest filed an application with the DOT requesting governmental approval to serve Cuba with daily nonstop flights from the carrier's three busiest airports in Florida. Following the initial application on March 2, 2016, Southwest received 120+ letters of support from local, regional, and national organizations, including Orlando, Inc., South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Tampa Bay Partnership, United States Black Chamber of Commerce, United States Business Leaders Network, and United States Hispanic Leadership Institute. At the filing deadline, more than 25,000 individual supporters had endorsed Southwest's DOT application by visiting Southwest.com/Cuba to petition U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx. These individuals consist of a diverse voice of tens of thousands of citizens across the country supporting Southwest's low-fare competition and Customer-friendly travel options to Cuba. Southwest will soon publish its low fares and flight schedules for Cuba service and intends to begin operations to Cuba later this year. Southwest continues to plan for 2016 year-over-year available seat mile (ASM) growth in the 5-6 percent range. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 46th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 98 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries with service to three airports in Cuba to begin later this year, subject to government approvals. *Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. The airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. A new logo, aircraft livery, interior design featuring a new seat and flight attendant galley, Employee-designed uniforms, and an updated airport experience all showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees who connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1   # # #   ... View more

Carrier earns top award by showcasing its world-class Hospitality to Customers across the U.S. This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) Cargo is flying high after recently being named the nation's best carrier for air cargo. For the seventh straight year, Southwest earned the Airforwarders Association's (AFA) "Domestic Carrier of the Year," award. The airline earned the honors for its ontime performance, Customer Service, problem resolution, overall value, and much more. "We are very grateful for this powerful source of Customer recognition. Providing Hospitality and Reliability through Teamwork is a major priority at Southwest Airlines," said Matt Buckley, Southwest Airlines' Vice President Cargo & Charters. "Our Cargo, Ramp, and Operations Employees continue to demonstrate the strength of their commitment to our Cargo Customers by meeting or exceeding their expectations on a daily basis with friendly, reliable service." "We are proud that once again, Southwest Cargo has been voted as the Airforwarders Association's 2016 Domestic Carrier of the Year," said Brandon Fried, Airforwarders Association's Executive Director. "In this highly demanding and competitive marketplace, AFA members know that they can depend on Southwest Cargo for fast and reliable service to satisfy their customers. We look forward to our continuing partnership as Southwest expands to new markets and cargo-related opportunities." The honors are still landing at Southwest's Dallas Headquarters. Express Delivery and Logistics Association (XLA) recognized the carrier for its outstanding 2015 performance by presenting it with the Express Cargo Standard of Excellence award. The XLA reviewed airline performance of the express cargo segment. Airlines were judged with a combination of factors including ontime performance, expedited products, technology offerings, XLA member feedback, and more. "The Express Delivery and Logistics Association (XLA) is delighted to announce that Southwest Airlines has been awarded our Association's Standard of Excellence award for outstanding service to the express cargo community in 2015," said Jim Conway, Executive Director, XLA. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CARGO Southwest Airlines' Relentlessly Reliable Employees offer Cargo Customers award-winning, expedited air cargo service to destinations across the map, including complimentary Road Feeder Service and interline destinations. With our extensive domestic network and over 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season, we have the flights you need to meet your shipping requirements. Learn more about how Southwest Cargo can help you with your shipping needs by visiting swacargo.com. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 46th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 98 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries. The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded Southwest authority to serve the Cuban airports in Veradero and Santa Clara from Ft. Lauderdale. The Company awaits a final determination on its pending application to serve Havana from three airports in Florida. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1 ... View more

Airline introduces 737-800 aircraft showcasing Heart interior with widest 737 economy seat in the market, bold new Employee-designed uniforms, and Heart galley This release contains: 1 Related Document, 8 Photos Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) is bringing the Heart of their Employees front and center with the announcement of the carrier's first-ever Employee-designed uniforms and Boeing 737-800 aircraft Heart interior featuring the new Heart galley and seat.  "Introducing our new uniform designs and fully branded 737-800 Heart interiors into the fleet is an accomplishment directly resulting from our hardworking Employee design teams," said Gary Kelly, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer for Southwest Airlines. "Southwest continues to enhance our unique brand that brings reliable comfort and outstanding Hospitality to 98 destinations in eight countries." Southwest first introduced the bold new look of its iconic brand in September 2014, unveiling a new logo, airport experience, and aircraft livery, Heart. Since then, the carrier continued this momentum with the roll out of the Heart brand, largely due to the hard work of Employee design teams and departments from across the Company. New uniforms Designed by Employees for Employees With the last complete redesign in 1996, Southwest has selected a new uniform designed by our very own Employees along with our partners at Cintas. Southwest's nearly 40,000 frontline Employees are anything but uniform, so it only made sense that a group of 43 vibrant individuals from Ground Ops, Inflight, Provisioning, Technical Operations, and Cargo departments discussed, debated, and designed with Fellow Employees in mind. Once the design was complete, more than 120 Employees across 37 cities tested pieces for fit and comfort, performance and functionality, durability, aesthetics, style, and ease of care. "Our energetic Employees are the Heart of our airline, and they were the perfect choice to design and develop our new look," said Sonya Lacore, Vice President Cabin Services and Executive Sponsor of the uniform redesign project. "Our brand, our planes, and our People are bold and modern, and the new uniform represents who our Employees are—spirited, professional, unique, and approachable." The new uniform collection embraces the brand colors with splashes of Bold Blue and pops of Signature Red. The final selections will now move into manufacturing, and all Employees will begin wearing the new uniform in mid-June 2017. New Seats Join the Fleet The new seat brings Customers additional space and comfort with more leg room. As the widest economy 737 seat, the bold blue seat features an adjustable headreast, enhanced back and bottom comfort, and more room to hold personal belongings. The seats are upholstered in Southwest's Bold Blue eLeather, a composition leather made of natural leather fibers. eLeather, which made its debut on Southwest aircraft in 2012, is manufactured using eco-friendly technology including state-of-the-art techniques which recycles 95 percent of the processed water and converts its own waste streams into energy, feeding back into the process. Serving up Southwest Hospitality A group of frontline Southwest Employees worked together to create a cutting-edge galley design, which will allow Flight Attendants to serve Customers even more efficiently than before. Unique in the airline industry, the transverse (aft) galley on our new 737-800 aircraft does not have carts (resulting in lighter weight), which means Flight Attendants can quickly prepare and serve Customers via trays—and our Customers can move about the cabin with ease once the seatbelt sign is off. With the addition of the new G7 galley (located just past the forward-entry door), Flight Attendants will be able to more quickly accommodate Customers in the forward part of our new 737-800 aircraft. Additionally, new space in the forward galley area for required emergency equipment means more overhead bin space for Customers. Currently, Southwest has three 737-800 aircraft with full Heart interiors flying in the system. The carrier plans to have 28 by year's end. Stay tuned for more tales from the runway, as Southwest Employees are certain to steal the show! ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 98 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries. Southwest has applied to serve three destinations in Cuba with nonstop service from its Florida gateways, providing connections between the island and dozens of U.S. cities. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free®  to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look:  Heart.  The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets.  With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1   ... View more

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) (the "Company") today reported its May and year-to-date preliminary traffic statistics. The Company flew 10.9 billion revenue passenger miles (RPMs) in May 2016, an increase of 6.4 percent from the 10.2 billion RPMs flown in May 2015. Available seat miles (ASMs) increased 4.6 percent to 12.6 billion in May 2016, compared with May 2015 ASMs of 12.1 billion. The May 2016 load factor was a record for the month of May at 85.8 percent, compared with 84.4 percent in May 2015. Based on these results and current trends, the Company continues to expect a modest increase in its second quarter 2016 operating revenue per ASM (RASM) as compared with second quarter 2015. This release, as well as past news releases about Southwest Airlines Co., is available online at Southwest.com. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements related to the Company’s financial outlook and projected results of operations. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by them. Factors include, among others, (i) changes in demand for the Company's services and other changes in consumer behavior; (ii) the Company’s ability to timely and effectively maintain the necessary information technology systems and infrastructure to support its operations and initiatives; (iii) the impact of governmental regulations and other governmental actions related to the Company's operations; and (iv) other factors, as described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the detailed factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. Southwest Airlines Co. Preliminary Comparative Traffic Statistics MAY       2016     2015     Change Revenue passengers carried     10,880,898     10,294,774     5.7% Enplaned passengers     13,248,940     12,565,830     5.4% Revenue passenger miles (000s)     10,859,110     10,202,485     6.4% Available seat miles (000s)     12,649,853     12,088,512     4.6% Load factor     85.8%     84.4%     1.4 pts. Average length of haul     998     991     0.7% Trips flown     111,802     108,693     2.9%   YEAR-TO-DATE       2016     2015     Change Revenue passengers carried     49,825,259     46,723,734     6.6% Enplaned passengers     60,483,593     56,860,740     6.4% Revenue passenger miles (000s)     49,626,054     45,961,807     8.0% Available seat miles (000s)     60,343,735     56,297,657     7.2% Load factor     82.2%     81.6%     0.6 pts. Average length of haul     996     984     1.2% Trips flown     535,558     512,841     4.4% Investor Contact: Southwest Airlines Investor Relations 214-792-4415 Media Contact: Southwest Airlines Media Relations 214-792-4847 swamedia@wnco.com   ... View more

From walk-offs to pushbacks, Southwest and the Brewers showcase their partnership with their fans, flyers, and fun! This release contains: 1 Related Document WHO: Milwaukee Brewers Pitcher Will Smith Milwaukee Brewers Pitcher Jeremy Jeffress Milwaukee Mascot Bernie Brewer Klement’s Famous Racing Sausages Southwest Airlines Employees and Customers WHAT: The Milwaukee Brewers are knocking it out of the park as they head to General Mitchell International Airport to try their hand at running Milwaukee’s biggest airline. Southwest Airlines is teaming up with the Brewers to bring players and fan-favorites- Bernie Brewer and the Klement’s Famous Racing Sausages to surprise travelers and Employees. The Brewers will assist with unloading and boarding a flight, marshalling in an aircraft, and meeting their fans who are traveling through the airport. *For the first time ever, Southwest Airlines Employees are trading places with the Brewers on their home field. Employees had a rare opportunity to come out to Miller Park for a behind the scenes tour, sliding down Bernie’s slide, playing catch on the field, and getting to run the bases. *Please email Giavonna Heath (gia.heath@brewers.com) for broadcast quality video and high-res photos. WHEN: Wednesday, June 8 All media require an escort. Please remember to bring your government issued photo ID. Please arrive at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter by 11 a.m. CDT. WHERE: General Mitchell International Airport Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter, lower level RSVP by 6 p.m. CDT Tuesday, June 7 for the event. Email dan.landson@wnco.com to provide your (1) full legal name corresponding with your government issued ID, your (2) date of birth, and (3) gender, to facilitate security clearance. CONTACT: Southwest Airlines Communication Dan Landson – 214.792.4565 VISUALS: Brewers Players will be on the tarmac marshalling in an aircraft, making boarding announcements, taking boarding passes, taking photos with Customers. In addition, Bernie Brewer and Klement’s Famous Racing Sausages will be celebrating with Customers in the gate area. MORE: Southwest Airlines is the Official Airline of the Milwaukee Brewers in a partnership that includes in-stadium branding, an interactive concourse experience, and on-line promotions. Southwest Airlines offers the most nonstop flights from Milwaukee than any other airline. Visit www.swamedia.com for Company information. Visit www.milwaukee.brewers.mlb.com for more information on the Brewers. ... View more

New nonstop service between Long Beach and Oakland International Airport conveniently connects 19 U.S. cities with its fifth L.A. gateway airport; Southwest’s 10th California airport served This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV), the carrier offering more seats than any other carrier each day to, from, and within California, embarked upon a new chapter in a faithful 35- year partnership with California travelers today.  Southwest® celebrates inaugural service at Long Beach Airport, the carrier's 98th city served, now offering service in all five major commercial airports in the L.A. Basin with four flights a day to and from the Bay Area nonstop between Long Beach and Oakland. "Southwest's arrival in Long Beach brings much needed competition not just with our unique value and unparalleled Customer Service, but with unmatched access to the rest of the country through our Oakland gateway," said Paul Cullen, Southwest Airlines' Vice President of Corporate Planning and Financial Planning and Analysis, at a morning news conference before the airport's first Southwest departure. "The initial schedule for Long Beach offers long reach with easy connections to 19 cities through our four flights a day to Oakland." "I'm thrilled to welcome Southwest Airlines to Long Beach," said Mayor Garcia. "This is an exciting and positive development for our city and the entire region, and one more great reason to fly through Long Beach Airport." "We are delighted to welcome this new partner and one of the most recognizable airline carriers to Long Beach," said Stacy Mungo, Long Beach Councilwoman. "At the center of Southwest's business model are people and culture, which is only fitting given our city's unique sense of community." "Southwest is a welcomed addition to Long Beach Airport, where our customers value the convenience and excellent customer service that we provide," said Juan López-Rios, Interim Director. "We are proud to be able to provide that same service to our Southwest customers as they enjoy the relaxed travel experience for which LGB is known." Beginning today, Southwest offers a peak summer schedule of nearly 60 flights a day in each direction between Oakland and Southern California's five airports in the greater L.A. region, plus San Diego. Last week, Southwest filed an application for route authority to add new daily international service later this year from LAX to Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and San Jose del Cabo/Los Cabos in Mexico, alongside daily service to Costa Rica which began in April. Southwest also flies internationally from John Wayne Airport in Orange County to Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and San Jose del Cabo/Los Cabos. Book Southwest's great low fares from Long Beach to Oakland at southwest.com. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 97 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries. Service to Long Beach, California, the carrier's 98th city, begins June 5, 2016. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1   # # #   ... View more

Discovery brings Southwest® Customers exclusive never-before-seen content onboard WiFi-equipped flights This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) is partnering once again with Discovery Channel's Shark Week, taking television's longest-running and most anticipated summer event to new heights.  Today, the companies unveiled the first-ever Shark Week-themed 737-700 aircraft proudly displaying the majestic sea life that is widely celebrated by millions during Discovery's Shark Week, airing June 26 through July 3, 2016.  The aircraft will fly as part of the carrier's fleet through Aug. 31, 2016.  Customers who catch a glimpse of the Shark Week-themed plane during their summer travels are encouraged to snap a photo and share it with @SouthwestAir and @SharkWeek, using the hashtag #SharksTakeFlight for a chance to receive fin-tastic custom Shark Week swag. As Shark Week fans around the globe anticipate the best week ever, Southwest Customers can get in on the action early.  Only on Southwest Airlines can Customers enjoy exclusive, jaw-dropping, never-before-seen content brought to you by Discovery.  Onboard Wifi-equipped flights beginning June 1, Customers can sit back in "Shark n' Awe"to enjoy Jungle Shark nearly one month before airing during Shark Week.  "Now more than ever, brands have to be creative and unique in their approach to reach new Customers,"said Linda Rutherford, Chief Communication Officer for Southwest Airlines.  "Partnering with Discovery's Shark Week allows Southwest to connect with our Customers in a fun and memorable way.  Only on Southwest can you enjoy this Shark Week experience, and that's what it's all about."= The exclusive episode of Jungle Shark will take Customers on a deep dive into the rainforests of Costa Rica with Marine Biologist Dr. Craig O'Connell and Andy Casagrande to find out why young bull sharks swim up the river, and how they avoid the 12-14' American Crocodiles living there.   Want to head to Costa Rica to experience Jungle Shark for yourself?  Southwest can get you there.  Catch a nonstop flight to San Jose (SJO) or Liberia/Guanacaste (LIR), Costa Rica from Los Angeles (LAX), Houston-Hobby (HOU) and Baltimore/Washington (BWI).   If shallow waters are more your thing, Southwest and Discovery are sending a family of four on a jawsome Mexico adventure.  Enter the Dare to Dive Sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (PVR), including roundtrip air travel for four on Southwest, a $2,000 hotel gift card, and a $1,000 Visa gift card to put toward an aquatic excursion for the entire family.  For full rules and to enter for a chance to win, visit Southwest.com/SharkWeek. Customers traveling today onboard the Shark Week-themed aircraft on Flight 10 from Dallas Love Field to Orange County/Santa Ana (SNA) will be surprised with jaw-dropping Shark Week goodies including Shark Week-themed neck pillows, Shark Week fin hats, "I Flew with Shark Week"buttons, Shark Week koozies, sunglasses, and even washable tattoos! Enjoy more Southwest Shark Week content here. SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually.  Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 97 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries. Service to Long Beach, California, the carrier's 98th city, begins June 5, 2016. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free®  to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look:  Heart.  The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets.  With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1 # # # ... View more

Carrier seeks DOT route authority to link its LAX International gateway to Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, and San José del Cabo/Los Cabos, México This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today filed an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to extend the carrier’s low fare reach into México markets with new international service from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Southwest is proposing new service to México: twice-daily flights to Cancún and San José del Cabo/Los Cabos, and once daily service to Puerto Vallarta to begin Nov. 6, 2016, contingent upon route authority approval by the end of this month. Shortly following approval, the carrier intends to offer the flights for sale on Southwest.com. The application requests extra-bilateral authority from the DOT to allow the carrier to sell and serve the new markets during an interim period while the governments of the United States and México take final diplomatic steps to bring the pending liberalized Aviation Agreement between the two nations into force. “We’ve committed aircraft resources to serve these important trans-border routes at the start of the winter season and are asking that Southwest be allowed to add its low-fare, bags fly free, no change fee* competition and legendary Customer Service to benefit consumers in the U.S. and México,” said Gary Kelly, Chairman, President & CEO of Southwest Airlines. According to projections by the Campbell-Hill Aviation Group, an economic analysis firm retained by Southwest, Southwest’s new competition in the three LAX – México markets could reduce fares more than 20 percent below average fares on the routes today, increase total traffic on the routes by more than 500,000 passengers each year, and save passengers $50 million annually in reduced fares – another example of the Southwest Effect of lowering fares and increasing traffic in international markets. Click here to download the carrier’s application. Southwest currently offers daily service from LAX to Liberia, Costa Rica and serves four points in México from eight other U.S. cities. Southwest continues to plan for 2016 year-over-year available seat mile (ASM) growth in the 5-6 percent range. *Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply; some airlines might allow free checked bags on select routes or in qualified circumstances), and there are never reservation change fees, though fare differences might apply. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements related to the Company's network and capacity plans, opportunities, and expectations. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by them. Factors include, among others, (i) the impact of economic conditions, consumer behavior, fuel prices, actions of competitors (including without limitation pricing, scheduling, and capacity decisions and consolidation and alliance activities), and other factors beyond the Company’s control, on the Company’s business decisions, plans, and strategies; (ii) the impact of governmental regulations and other governmental actions related to the Company's operations; ; and (iii) other factors, as described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the detailed factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2015. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 97 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries. Service to Long Beach, California, the carrier’s 98th city, begins June 5, 2016. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what’s important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1 # # #   ... View more

This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) proudly welcomes Secretary Norman Y. Mineta to its company headquarters to share his personal journey with Employees. From being the first Asian Pacific American mayor of a major U.S. city to co-founding the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, Mineta has spent his career breaking glass ceilings. "Norman Y. Mineta has made tremendous contributions to the United States throughout his career, and we’re excited for him to share his personal journey with our Employees. He is a phenomenal role model and his life story illustrates how preparation, determination, and perseverance can overcome both cultural stereotypes and systemic obstacles," said Ellen Torbert, Southwest Airlines’ Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion. "Southwest is honored to have someone who has blazed trails in the Asian American community speak to and enlighten our Employees during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month." Mineta served as United States Secretary of Commerce under President Bill Clinton and as United States Secretary of Transportation under President George W. Bush. To learn more about Mineta’s powerful story, visit Southwest Airlines’ blog, NUTS About Southwest. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 97 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries. Service to Long Beach, California, the carrier’s 98th city, begins June 5, 2016. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what’s important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1   # # # ... View more

This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today extended its bookable flight schedule from early November through Jan. 4, 2017, offering new nonstop service options through Southwest.com for Customers flying Southwest® in every time zone of the continental U.S.  The new routes were published a day after Southwest Airlines Chairman, President & CEO Gary Kelly announced that the carrier will file an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation for authority to offer new, daily and year-round international service later this year between Los Angeles (LAX) and three cities in Mexico: Cancun (CUN), Puerto Vallarta (PVR), and San Jose del Cabo/Los Cabos (SJD). "We're ready to go and if we get the authority by the end of June, we'll immediately begin selling the flights and operate them commencing in November," Kelly said at the Company's Annual Meeting of Shareholders held Wednesday in Chicago.  "The Southwest Effect is taking hold in international markets where we already serve, and we expect these popular leisure markets will resonate with our loyal California Customers." The authority would enable Southwest to provide its low-fare service on popular routes as the two countries bring the pending U.S. – Mexico Aviation Agreement into effect.  In celebration of additional nonstop service announced and on sale today, special fares are available on nonstop, domestic flights except Fridays and Sundays now through May 26, 2016, 11:59 p.m. in the time zone of the originating city, for travel Nov. 6 through Dec. 17, 2016.  (Blackout dates apply. Seats are limited. Travel/to from Florida or Nevada is valid only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Fares not available to/from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Please reference detailed terms and conditions below.) New, nonstop service now available at Southwest.com begins Nov 6, 2016, between: Washington Reagan Natl. and Providence, R.I. one-way as low as $49 Washington Dulles and Orlando  one-way as low as $49 San Jose, Calif. and Salt Lake City one-way as low as $69 Kansas City and San Antonio one-way as low as $79 Baltimore/Washington and San Jose, Calif.  one-way as low as $159 "Two new nonstop routes here in San Jose, a city we've served since 1993, typifies the kind of difference we aim to make in connecting many of our long-time markets with time-saving service," said Andrew Watterson, Southwest's Senior Vice President of Network and Revenue, speaking at a news conference at Mineta San Jose International Airport.  "We carry more people both to-and-from California every day—as well within the Golden State--than anyone else with a value that no one else can even approach."  Similar airport events in San Antonio and Providence, R.I., celebrated the service newly published on Southwest.com.  The newly published and proposed service aligns with the carrier's planned 2016 year-over-year available seat mile growth in the 5-6 percent range. FARES TERMS & CONDITIONS Purchase today through May 26, 2016, 11:59 p.m. in the time zone of the originating city for travel Nov. 6 through Dec. 17, 2016, except Fridays, Sundays, and blacked-out dates Nov. 22, 23 & Nov. 26-28, 2016. Travel to/from Florida is valid only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Fares are valid only on domestic, nonstop service. Displayed prices include all U.S. government taxes and fees. Points bookings do not include taxes, fees, and other government/airport charges of at least $5.60 per one way flight. Fares not available to/from San Juan, Puerto Rico.  Seats and days are limited. Fares may vary by destination, flight, and day of week and won't be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Travel is available for one-way Wanna Get Away® Fares. Fares may be combined with other Southwest combinable fares. If combining with other fares, the most restrictive fare's rules apply. Sale fares may be available on other days of week, but not guaranteed. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward future travel on Southwest Airlines®, so long as reservations are canceled at least ten minutes prior to the scheduled departure of the flight. Failure to cancel prior to departure will result in forfeiture of remaining funds in the reservation. Any change in an itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Standby travel requires an upgrade to the Anytime Fare. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Offers apply only to published, scheduled service. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements related to the Company's anticipated service offerings and network and capacity plans, opportunities, and expectations. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by them. Factors include, among others, (i) the impact of economic conditions, consumer behavior, fuel prices, actions of competitors (including without limitation pricing, scheduling, and capacity decisions and consolidation and alliance activities), and other factors beyond the Company's control, on the Company's business decisions, plans, and strategies; (iii) the impact of governmental regulations and other governmental actions related to the Company's operations; and (iii) other factors, as described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the detailed factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2015. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest proudly operates across a network of 97 destinations in the United States and seven additional countries, with service to Long Beach, California, beginning June 5, 2016, and has more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free®  to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look:  Heart.  The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets.  With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2015 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone within the United States by dialing 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news.  Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1   # # #   ... View more

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) is among the 2016 Most Valuable Employers (MVE) for Military® as named by CivilianJobs.com. The MVE winners list helps veterans and job-seekers with military experience identify the top employers to target for civilian careers. "We're honored to be a Most Valuable Employer for Military, and immensely proud of the 6,800 veterans currently in our ranks at Southwest Airlines," said Julie Weber, Vice President People at Southwest Airlines. "This recognition is a testament to our veterans and their incredible Warrior Spirit. And, like our military men and women, our sights are on a bigger cause—a commitment to continuing to grow the number of veterans in our workforce." The 2016 Most Valuable Employers (MVE) for Military presented by DeVry University was open to all United States-based companies. Winners were selected based on surveys in which employers outlined their recruiting, training, and retention plans for military service members and veterans. MVEs are recognized in the month of May to help honor Armed Forces Day, May 21, 2016. This recognition underscores Southwest's continuous efforts to hire and retain the nation's military members. The Company actively seeks military talent through career fairs and military job boards, and partners with organizations to help veterans transition from the military and find meaningful employment. The airline offers a Military Appreciation Program to express gratitude and admiration for Employees who serve in U.S. military services through affiliation with the National Guard or Reserve Forces. Southwest Airlines has 12 national sponsorships with military-focused nonprofit organizations. Military- focused organizations are strategically chosen to represent a variety of services to military personnel, veterans, and their families, and represent the second-largest focus area of charitable contributions. In 2015, the Company volunteered nearly 5,400 hours for veteran and military causes. This allowed Employees to donate nearly 110 roundtrip tickets to military-focused nonprofit organizations through volunteer service. The airline's total investment to military causes in 2015 was more than $1 million in cash and tickets. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest proudly operates a network of 97 destinations across the United States and seven additional countries, with service to Long Beach, California, beginning June 5, 2016, and has more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2014 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. Media Contacts: Visit the Southwest Newsroom at swamedia.com for multi-media assets and other Company news Media Relations Team: 214-792-4847, option 1 # # # ... View more

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) (the "Company") today reported its April and year-to-date preliminary traffic statistics. The Company flew 10.4 billion revenue passenger miles (RPMs) in April 2016, an increase of 4.7 percent from the 9.9 billion RPMs flown in April 2015. Available seat miles (ASMs) increased 4.3 percent to 12.4 billion in April 2016, compared with April 2015 ASMs of 11.9 billion. The April 2016 load factor was a record for the month of April at 83.4 percent, compared with 83.1 percent in April 2015. Based on these results and current trends, the Company continues to expect a modest increase in its second quarter 2016 operating revenue per ASM (RASM) as compared with second quarter 2015. This release, as well as past news releases about Southwest Airlines Co., is available online at Southwest.com. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements related to the Company’s financial outlook and projected results of operations. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by them. Factors include, among others, (i) changes in demand for the Company's services and other changes in consumer behavior; (ii) the Company’s ability to timely and effectively maintain the necessary information technology systems and infrastructure to support its operations and initiatives; (iii) the impact of governmental regulations and other governmental actions related to the Company's operations; and (iv) other factors, as described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the detailed factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. Southwest Airlines Co. Preliminary Comparative Traffic Statistics APRIL       2016     2015     Change Revenue passengers carried     10,340,882     9,985,964     3.6% Enplaned passengers     12,606,212     12,195,952     3.4% Revenue passenger miles (000s)     10,358,780     9,898,455     4.7% Available seat miles (000s)     12,425,733     11,911,680     4.3% Load factor     83.4%     83.1%     0.3 pts. Average length of haul     1,002     991     1.1% Trips flown     109,219     107,578     1.5%   YEAR-TO-DATE       2016     2015     Change Revenue passengers carried     38,944,361     36,428,960     6.9% Enplaned passengers     47,234,653     44,294,910     6.6% Revenue passenger miles (000s)     38,766,944     35,759,322     8.4% Available seat miles (000s)     47,693,882     44,209,145     7.9% Load factor     81.3%     80.9%     0.4 pts. Average length of haul     995     982     1.3% Trips flown     423,756     404,148     4.9%   ... View more

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) promoted Cheryl Hughey to Managing Director Culture. Hughey will continue to lead the Culture Services Teams responsible for recognition, appreciation, and celebration of Southwest's more than 50,000 Employees. Hughey has led the Culture Services Department for the past five years, which has included supporting Culture initiatives across the system, providing guidance to Southwest's Companywide Culture Committee, and leading the charge to foster ownership of the Southwest Culture within a continually growing Employee base.  In her 36 years at Southwest, Hughey has shown an unmistakable enthusiasm for engaging with Employees and a passion for recognizing Employees' noteworthy efforts, which is the foundation of Southwest's unique and much lauded Culture. "Our Culture has always been one of our most cherished assets as a Company, and it's all because of our People," said Jeff Lamb, Executive Vice President of Corporate Services. "I can't think of a better person to lead the charge to nurture and perpetuate our Culture than Cheryl."  Joining Southwest Airlines on the frontline as a Reservation Sales Agent in 1980, Hughey has moved throughout the Company in various operational and leadership positions, from working in and leading Customer Service in DAL to overseeing the Leadership Training and Onboarding program in the People Department. The diversity of roles uniquely qualify Hughey to lead Southwest's efforts in fostering and promoting its Culture all across the Company. Hughey is a native of North Richland Hills, Texasand currently resides in Argyle, Texaswith her husband and two sons. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually.  Southwest proudly operates a network of 97 destinations across the United Statesand seven additional countries with more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Based on the U.S.Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S.airline to offer bags fly free®  to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look:  Heart.  The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S.Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets.  With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2014 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. ... View more

This release contains: 1 Photo Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) loyalty program, Rapid Rewards®, has been named Program of the Year for the Americas by the Freddie Awards, one of the most prestigious honors for loyalty programs in the travel industry. Rapid Rewards was also recognized as Best Customer Service at Inside Flyer magazine's 28 th annual Freddie Awards ceremony yesterday in Las Vegas. "We constantly strive to provide our loyal Customers with the best program, so to receive the official title of the Program of the Year means a lot to us," said Jonathan Clarkson, Southwest's Senior Director of Loyalty, Partnerships, & Products. "Our Customer-focused loyalty program offers a unique combination of Customer Service, award availability, and program value. We're proud Customers continue to come back for more." For the fourth consecutive year, Rapid Rewards, which was relaunched in 2011, won the Freddie awards for Best Customer Service. This is the first time the loyalty program has been voted Program of the Year since it's relaunch. Introduced in 1988, the Freddie Awards give voice to the frequent flyer and honor the most respected travel loyalty programs in the world. Nearly three million ballots are cast annually as travelers vote for the program they feel provided the best value and services during the previous year. The 28 th annual Freddie Awards ceremony took place in Las Vegas on April 28, 2016. Visit Rapid Rewards for information on the program and the latest offer. ABOUT RAPID REWARDS Originally launched in 1987, Rapid Rewards Members who once earned credits can now earn points by flying or through qualifying purchases with our Partners. Members can redeem their points for every seat, every day, on every flight with absolutely no blackout dates or seat restrictions, and points won't expire as long as Members have earning activity within a 24-month time period. Points are earned for every dollar spent on Southwest® flights, and the amount of points earned is based on the fare and fare product purchased. The number of Rapid Rewards Points that are needed to redeem for flights varies based on factors such as destination, time, day of travel, and availability. Rapid Rewards Points are also earned by spending with a variety of Rapid Rewards Partners. Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers can redeem their points for expanded international travel, gift cards, hotels, car rentals, merchandise, and more. Learn more about the program by visiting the Rapid Rewards web site. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 50,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest proudly operates a network of 97 destinations across the United States and seven additional countries with more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2014 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA ... View more

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) (the "Company") today reported its first quarter 2016 results: Record first quarter net income, excluding special items 1 , of $567 million, or $.88 per diluted share, compared with first quarter 2015 net income, excluding special items, of $451 million, or $.66 per diluted share. This exceeded the First Call consensus estimate of $.84 per diluted share. Record first quarter GAAP 2 net income of $511 million, or $.79 per diluted share, compared with first quarter 2015 GAAP net income of $453 million, or $.66 per diluted share. Record first quarter GAAP operating income of $944 million. Excluding special items, record first quarter operating income of $952 million, resulting in a strong first quarter operating margin 3 of 19.7 percent. Record first quarter free cash flow 1 of $1.2 billion; returned $596 million to Shareholders through the combination of dividends and share repurchases. Return on invested capital, before taxes and excluding special items (ROIC) 1 , for the 12 months ended March 31, 2016, of 33.4 percent, compared with 25.6 percent for the 12 months ended March 31, 2015. Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "We are delighted to report an outstanding start to 2016. Our first quarter net income, excluding special items, increased 25.7 percent to a first quarter record $567 million, or $.88 per diluted share. Our strong operating income produced a first quarter operating margin, excluding special items, of 19.7 percent, driven largely by record first quarter operating revenues and lower fuel prices. Our investment grade balance sheet, liquidity, and cash flow remain strong. We generated record first quarter free cash flow of $1.2 billionand returned $596 millionto Shareholders through the combination of dividends and share buybacks during first quarter 2016. Next month, we expect to complete the repurchase of the remaining $200 million under our existing $1.5 billionshare repurchase authorization. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2016, our ROIC was an exceptional 33.4 percent. My congratulations to our superb Employees on these tremendous results and their record first quarter profitsharing accrual of $155 million. "As expected, operating revenues grew in line with our available seat mile growth of 9.2 percent, which is a very strong performance, especially considering the increase in stage length. The sustained strength of Customer demand for our one-of-a-kind service produced a record first quarter load factor of 80.5 percent. Solid bookings and revenue trends have continued, thus far, in April, and we currently expect modest operating unit revenue growth in second quarter 2016, year-over-year. We are very pleased with our industry outperformance and the ongoing response to our advertising campaign, which highlights Transfarency SM : low fares; nothing to hide; no change fees; bags fly free ® ;and free live TV 4 . That's Transfarency! "We are also pleased with our first quarter unit cost decrease, excluding special items, of 2.6 percent, which benefited primarily from lower jet fuel prices, and also from ongoing fleet modernization benefits and better ontime performance. First quarter economic fuel costs 1 declined 11.0 percent to $1.78 per gallon. We currently expect our second quarter 2016 economic fuel costs per gallon to be in the same range 5 , and below the $2.02 per gallon in second quarter 2015. Excluding fuel, special items, and profitsharing, our first quarter unit costs declined slightly, and we continue to expect modest inflation in our annual 2016 unit costs, as compared with the same year-ago periods. "In January, we announced our intention to retire our'Classic'Boeing 737-300 fleet in 2018. Today, we are announcing the retirement date has been accelerated to 2017 to simplify our operations and resolve uncertainty surrounding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot training requirements for flying both the Classic and Boeing 737-8 (MAX) aircraft. We have been working with our Pilots' union, Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA), to mitigate this issue through segmenting the Classic flying, but that effort has been unsuccessful. Given the FAA is not expected to complete training requirements until next year, the only solution now is to avoid flying both the Classics and the MAX. Therefore, the Classics will be retired in 2017 prior to the MAX being placed into revenue service. Indeed, this is a viable and manageable solution, although not preferred. This accelerated retirement of the Classics will result in fewer aircraft and lower available seat mile (capacity) growth in 2017 than previously planned. We are evaluating our fleet plans and intend to continue managing to average annual fleet growth for the three-year period ending 2018 of no more than two percent. Our annual capacity growth over that period is still expected to fall below this year's five to six percent. We will evaluate future growth opportunities, and any resulting capital spending, in a prudent and disciplined manner. "We reached another exciting milestone in our international expansion last week with the launch of daily service from Los AngelesInternational Airport to Liberia/Guanacaste, Costa Rica, creating our 13 th mainland gateway serving Latin Americaand the Caribbean. We also filed an application with the U.S.Department of Transportation (DOT) during first quarter 2016 requesting governmental approval to serve Cuba. Subject to approval, we intend to initiate service to Cubalater this year. In addition, as the largest carrier of passengers journeying within and to/from California 6 , we recently announced new daily service linking Long Beach Airport and Oakland, beginning June 2016. Long Beachwill become our 10 th airport within California, and the 98 th destination in our network. "Overall, we remain very pleased with the performance of our network. Based on current trends and our outlook for second quarter 2016, we expect another quarter of strong margins and cash flows. We are investing in our future and will remain diligent in our efforts to deliver sustained value to our Employees, Customers, and Shareholders. Congratulations again to our wonderful Employees on a terrific first quarter performance." Financial Results The Company's total operating revenues were a first quarter record $4.8 billion, a 9.3 percent increase compared with first quarter 2015, driven largely by first quarter 2016 passenger revenues of $4.4 billion. Operating unit revenues (RASM) were comparable to first quarter 2015, on a 9.2 percent year-over-year increase in available seat miles. Based on current trends, the Company expects modestly positive second quarter 2016 RASM, as compared with second quarter 2015 RASM. First quarter 2016 total operating revenues included approximately $125 millionrecorded as a result of the amendment of the Company's co-branded credit card agreement with Chase Bank USA, N.A. (Chase) during third quarter 2015 and a resulting required change in accounting methodology. This $125 millionnet benefit reflects an approximate $175 millionincrease to other revenues offset by an approximate $50 millionreduction to passenger revenues. An estimated second quarter 2016 total operating revenue benefit from the amended Chase agreement of approximately $125 millionis included in the Company's second quarter 2016 RASM outlook. Total operating expenses in first quarter 2016 increased 6.8 percent to $3.9 billion, compared with first quarter 2015. Excluding special items in both periods, total operating expenses increased 6.3 percent to $3.9 billion, compared with first quarter 2015. This cost performance includes the impact of the first quarter 2016 ratification of collective bargaining agreements with the Company's Ramp, Operations, Provisioning, and Cargo Agents, as well as its Flight Instructors. First quarter 2016 economic fuel costs were $1.78 per gallon, including $.56 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements from fuel derivative contracts, compared with $2.00 per gallon in first quarter 2015, including $.10 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements from fuel derivative contracts. Based on the Company's existing fuel derivative contracts and market prices as of April 18, 2016, second quarter 2016 economic fuel costs are estimated to be in the $1.75 to $1.80 per gallon range, as compared with second quarter 2015's $2.02 per gallon. As of April 18, 2016, the fair market value of the Company's fuel derivative contracts for the remainder of 2016 was a net liability of approximately $740 million, and a net liability of $640 million for the hedge portfolio in 2017 and 2018, combined. Additional information regarding the Company's fuel derivative contracts is included in the accompanying tables. Excluding fuel and oil expense and special items in both periods, first quarter 2016 operating costs increased 9.3 percent from first quarter 2015. First quarter 2016 profitsharing expense was $155 million, compared with $126 millionin first quarter 2015. Excluding fuel and oil expense, special items, and profitsharing expense, first quarter 2016 operating costs increased 8.7 percent from first quarter 2015, and decreased 0.5 percent on a unit basis. Based on current trends and excluding fuel and oil expense, special items, and profitsharing expense, the Company expects its second quarter 2016 and annual 2016 unit costs to increase approximately two percent, and approximately one percent, respectively, as compared withthe same year-ago periods and largely due to accelerated depreciation expense associated with the planned early retirement of the Classic fleet. Operating income was a first quarter record $944 million, compared with $780 millionin first quarter 2015. Excluding special items, operating income was a first quarter record $952 million, compared with $770 millionin first quarter 2015. Other expenses in first quarter 2016 were $128 million, compared with $57 million in first quarter 2015. The $71 million increase primarily resulted from $114 million in other losses recognized in first quarter 2016, compared with $32 million in first quarter 2015. In both periods, these losses included ineffectiveness and unrealized mark-to-market amounts associated with a portion of the Company's fuel hedge portfolio, which are special items. Excluding these special items, first quarter 2016 had $34 million in other losses, compared with $26 million in first quarter 2015, primarily attributable to the premium costs associated with the Company's fuel derivative contracts. Second quarter 2016 premium costs related to fuel derivative contracts are currently estimated to be in the $45 millionto $50 million range, compared with $22 million in second quarter 2015. Net interest expense in first quarter 2016 was $14 million, compared with $25 million in first quarter 2015. Balance Sheet and Cash Flows As of March 31, 2016, the Company had approximately $3.6 billion in cash and short-term investments, and a fully available unsecured revolving credit line of $1 billion. Net cash provided by operations during first quarter 2016 was $1.6 billion, capital expenditures were $438 million, and assets constructed for others, net of reimbursements, were $1 million, resulting in free cash flow of $1.2 billion. The Company repaid $56 millionin debt and capital lease obligations during first quarter 2016, and intends to repay approximately $550 million in debt and capital lease obligations during the remainder of 2016. The Company will fund the $620 million ProfitSharing contribution as a result of its 2015 results to its ProfitSharing Plan in second quarter 2016. During first quarter 2016, the Company returned $596 millionto its Shareholders through the payment of $96 million in dividends and the repurchase of $500 million in common stock. During first quarter 2016, the Company repurchased $500 millionin common stock pursuant to an accelerated share repurchase program launched during the quarter (first quarter 2016 ASR program), and received approximately 9.6 million shares, representing an estimated 75 percent of the shares expected to be repurchased. The Company intends to complete the first quarter 2016 ASR program by April 25, 2016, and subsequently launch an additional $200 million accelerated share repurchase program (second quarter 2016 ASR program), thereby completing its existing $1.5 billion share repurchase program authorized in May 2015. The Company intends to complete the second quarter 2016 ASR program next month. Fleet The Company ended first quarter 2016 with 714 aircraft in its fleet. This reflects the delivery of 7 new Boeing 737-800s and 13 pre-owned Boeing 737-700s, as well as the retirement of 10 Boeing 737 Classic aircraft during the first quarter. The Company continues to manage to a year-end 2016 fleet of roughly 720 aircraft. As announced in January 2016, the Company decided to accelerate the retirement of its Classic aircraft to no later than mid-2018. The planned retirement date of its Classic fleet has now been accelerated to no later than third quarter 2017. While the Company expects aircraft at the end of 2017 to decline from year-end 2016 as a result of this decision, it intends to manage to an average annual fleet growth for the three-year period ending 2018 of no more than two percent. Additional information regarding the Company's aircraft delivery schedule is included in the accompanying tables. Awards and Recognitions   Named to FORTUNE's list of World's Most Admired Companies for the 22 nd consecutive year. Southwest was ranked as the #7 Most Admired Company, and is the only commercial airline to make the Top Ten. Named a Best Employer in Forbes' 2016 list. Named Best Low-Cost Carrier in North Americafor the third consecutive year in Premier Traveler's Best of 2015. Received the Air Cargo Excellence Gold Award by Air Cargo World magazine, making this the 12 th consecutive year Southwest Airlines Cargo® has been honored in the annual Air Cargo Excellence Survey. Named Best Airline (Domestic) and Best Loyalty Airline Card in MONEY Magazine's Best in Travel Awards. Named among the top 10 on Chief Executive Magazine's Best Companies for Leaders.   Conference Call The Company will discuss its first quarter 2016 results on a conference call at 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time today. A live broadcast of the conference call also will be available at http://investors.southwest.com 1 See Note Regarding Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures for additional information on special items, ROIC, and free cash flow. In addition, information regarding special items, ROIC, and economic results is included in the accompanying reconciliation tables. 2 Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States. 3 Operating margin, excluding special items, is calculated as operating income, excluding special items, divided by operating revenues. See Note Regarding Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures. 4 Fare difference may apply. First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply. Limited time. Where available. 5 Based on the Company's existing fuel derivative contracts and market prices as of April 18, 2016. 6 Based on the latest statistics reported by the U.S.Department of Transportation. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specificforward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements related to (i) the Company's expectations with respect to returning value to Shareholders; (ii) the Company's financial outlook, expectations, strategies, and projected results of operations, including specific factors expected to impact the Company's results of operations; (iii) the Company's fleet and capacity plans and expectations and the factors expected to impact such plans and expectations; (iv) the Company's expectations related to its management of risk associated with changing jet fuel prices; (v) the Company's network plans and opportunities; and (vi) the Company's expectations with respect to liquidity (including its plans for the repayment of debt and capital lease obligations) and capital expenditures. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current intent, expectations, and projections and are not guarantees of future performance. Thesestatements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by them. Factors include, among others, (i) changes in demand for the Company's services and other changes in consumer behavior (including with respect to the Company's co-branded credit card); (ii) the impact of economic conditions, fuel prices, actions of competitors (including without limitation pricing, scheduling, and capacity decisions and consolidation), governmental actions, and other factors beyond the Company's control, on the Company's business decisions, plans, and strategies; (iii) the impact of labor matters on the Company's business decisions, plans, and strategies; (iv) the Company's dependence on third parties, in particular with respect to its fleet plans; (v) changes in aircraft fuel prices, the impact of hedge accounting, and any changes to the Company's fuel hedging strategies and positions; and (vi) other factors, as described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the detailed factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. Southwest Airlines Co. Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income (in millions, except per share amounts) (unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2016 2015 Percent Change OPERATING REVENUES: Passenger $ 4,398 $ 4,178 5.3 Freight 42 44 (4.5) Other 386 192 101.0     Total operating revenues 4,826 4,414 9.3 OPERATING EXPENSES: Salaries, wages, and benefits 1,539 1,419 8.5 Fuel and oil 852 877 (2.9) Maintenance materials and repairs 262 229 14.4 Aircraft rentals 59 60 (1.7) Landing fees and other rentals 302 285 6.0 Depreciation and amortization 290 244 18.9 Acquisition and integration — 23 n.m. Other operating expenses 578 497 16.3     Total operating expenses 3,882 3,634 6.8 OPERATING INCOME 944 780 21.0 OTHER EXPENSES (INCOME): Interest expense 30 32 (6.3) Capitalized interest (11) (6) 83.3 Interest income (5) (1) 400.0 Other (gains) losses, net 114 32 256.3     Total other expenses 128 57 124.6 INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 816 723 12.9 PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES 305 270 13.0 NET INCOME $ 511 $ 453 12.8 NET INCOME PER SHARE: Basic $ 0.80 $ 0.67 19.4 Diluted $ 0.79 $ 0.66 19.7 WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING: Basic 641 674 (4.9) Diluted 648 682 (5.0)   Southwest Airlines Co. Reconciliation of Reported Amounts to Non-GAAP Items (See Note Regarding Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures) (in millions, except per share amounts) (unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2016 2015 Percent Change Fuel and oil expense, unhedged $ 577 $ 830 Add: Fuel hedge (gains) losses included in Fuel and oil expense 275 47 Fuel and oil expense, as reported $ 852 $ 877 Deduct: Net impact from fuel contracts (1) (8) (4) Fuel and oil expense, (economic) $ 844 $ 873 (3.3) Total operating expenses, as reported $ 3,882 $ 3,634 Deduct: Net impact from fuel contracts (1) (8) (4) Deduct: Acquisition and integration costs — (23) Add: Litigation settlement — 37 Total operating expenses, non-GAAP $ 3,874 $ 3,644 6.3 Deduct: Fuel and oil expense, non-GAAP (economic) (844) (873) Operating expenses, non-GAAP, excluding Fuel and oil expense $ 3,030 $ 2,771 9.3 Deduct: Profitsharing expense (155) (126) Operating expenses, non-GAAP, excluding profitsharing and Fuel and oil expense $ 2,875 $ 2,645 8.7 Operating income, as reported $ 944 $ 780 Add: Net impact from fuel contracts (1) 8 4 Add: Acquisition and integration costs — 23 Deduct: Litigation settlement — (37) Operating income, non-GAAP $ 952 $ 770 23.6 Other (gains) losses, net, as reported $ 114 $ 32 Deduct: Net impact from fuel contracts (1) (80) (6) Other (gains) losses, net, non-GAAP $ 34 $ 26 30.8 Net income, as reported $ 511 $ 453 Add: Net impact from fuel contracts (1) 88 10 Deduct: Income tax impact of fuel contracts (32) (3) Add: Acquisition and integration costs (2) — 14 Deduct: Litigation settlement (2) — (23) Net income, non-GAAP $ 567 $ 451 25.7 Net income per share, diluted, as reported $ 0.79 $ 0.66 Add: Net impact from fuel contracts (2) 0.09 0.01 Deduct: Impact of special items (2) — (0.01) Net income per share, diluted, non-GAAP $ 0.88 $ 0.66 33.3 (1) See Reconciliation of Impact from Fuel Contracts. (2) Amounts net of tax.     Southwest Airlines Co. Reconciliation of Impact from Fuel Contracts (See Note Regarding Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures) (in millions) (unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2016 2015 Fuel and oil expense Reclassification between Fuel and oil and Other (gains) losses, net,associated with current period settled contracts $ — $ — Contracts settling in the current period, but for which gains have been recognized in a prior period (1) (8) (4) Impact from fuel contracts to Fuel and oil expense $ (8) $ (4) Operating Income Reclassification between Fuel and oil and Other (gains) losses, net, associated with current period settled contracts $ — $ — Contracts settling in the current period, but for which gains have been recognized in a prior period (1) 8 4 Impact from fuel contracts to Operating Income $ 8 $ 4 Other (gains) losses, net Mark-to-market impact from fuel contracts settling in future periods $ (76) $ (19) Ineffectiveness from fuel hedges settling in future periods (4) 13 Reclassification between Fuel and oil and Other (gains) losses, net, associated with current period settled contracts — — Impact from fuel contracts to Other (gains) losses, net $ (80) $ (6) Net Income Mark-to-market impact from fuel contracts settling in future periods $ 76 $ 19 Ineffectiveness from fuel hedges settling in future periods 4 (13) Other net impact of fuel contracts settling in the current or a priorperiod (excluding reclassifications) 8 4 Impact from fuel contracts to Net Income (2) $ 88 $ 10 (1) As a result of prior hedge ineffectiveness and/or contracts marked-to-market through the income statement. (2) Before income tax impact of unrealized items.   Southwest Airlines Co. Comparative Consolidated Operating Statistics (unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2016 2015 Change Revenue passengers carried 28,603,479 26,442,996 8.2% Enplaned passengers 34,628,441 32,098,958 7.9% Revenue passenger miles (RPMs) (000s) (1) 28,408,164 25,860,866 9.9% Available seat miles (ASMs) (000s) (2) 35,268,149 32,297,465 9.2% Load factor (3) 80.5%   80.1%   0.4 pts. Average length of passenger haul (miles) 993 978 1.5% Average aircraft stage length (miles) 757 739 2.4% Trips flown 314,537 296,570 6.1% Seats flown (4) 46,101,321 43,244,404 6.6% Seats per trip (5) 146.57 145.82 0.5% Average passenger fare (11) $ 153.75 $ 158.01 (2.7)% Passenger revenue yield per RPM (cents) (6)(11) 15.48 16.16 (4.2)% RASM (cents) (7) 13.68 13.67 0.1% PRASM (cents) (8)(11) 12.47 12.94 (3.6)% CASM (cents) (9) 11.01 11.25 (2.1)% CASM, excluding Fuel and oil expense (cents) 8.59 8.53 0.7% CASM, excluding special items (cents) 10.99 11.28 (2.6)% CASM, excluding Fuel and oil expense and special items (cents) 8.59 8.58 0.1% CASM, excluding Fuel and oil expense, special items, and profitsharing expense (cents) 8.15 8.19 (0.5)% Fuel costs per gallon, including fuel tax (unhedged) $ 1.22 $ 1.90 (35.8)% Fuel costs per gallon, including fuel tax $ 1.80 $ 2.01 (10.4)% Fuel costs per gallon, including fuel tax (economic) $ 1.78 $ 2.00 (11.0)% Fuel consumed, in gallons (millions) 472 434 8.8% Active fulltime equivalent Employees 50,911 47,005 8.3% Aircraft at end of period (10) 714 679 5.2% (1) A revenue passenger mile is one paying passenger flown one mile. Also referred to as "traffic," which is a measure of demand for a given period. (2) An available seat mile is one seat (empty or full) flown one mile. Also referred to as "capacity," which is a measure of the space available to carry passengers in a given period. (3) Revenue passenger miles divided by available seat miles. (4) Seats flown is calculated using total number of seats available by aircraft type multiplied by the total trips flown by the same aircraft type during a particular period. (5) Seats per trip is calculated using seats flown divided by trips flown. Also referred to as "gauge." (6) Calculated as passenger revenue divided by revenue passenger miles. Also referred to as "yield," this is the average cost paid by a paying passenger to fly one mile, which is a measure of revenue production and fares. (7) RASM (unit revenue) - Operating revenue yield per ASM, calculated as operating revenue divided by available seat miles. Also referred to as "operating unit revenues," this is a measure of operating revenue production based on the total available seat miles flown during a particular period. (8) PRASM (Passenger unit revenue) - Passenger revenue yield per ASM, calculated as passenger revenue divided by available seat miles. Also referred to as "passenger unit revenues," this is a measure of passenger revenue production based on the total available seat miles flown during a particular period. (9) CASM (unit costs) - Operating expenses per ASM, calculated as operating expenses divided by available seat miles. Also referred to as "unit costs" or "cost per available seat mile," this is the average cost to fly an aircraft seat (empty or full) one mile, which is a measure of cost efficiencies. (10) Aircraft in the Company's fleet at period end. (11) Refer to the Financial Results section of this release for additional information regarding the impact from the July 2015 amended co-branded credit card agreement with Chase.       Southwest Airlines Co. Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) (See Note Regarding Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures) (in millions) (unaudited) Twelve months ended Twelve months ended March 31, 2016 March 31, 2015 Operating income, as reported $ 4,280 $ 2,790 Special revenue adjustment (1) (172) — Union contract bonuses 334 9 Net impact from fuel contracts (319) 23 Acquisition and integration costs 16 132 Litigation settlement — (37) Operating income, non-GAAP $ 4,139 $ 2,917 Net adjustment for aircraft leases (2) 115 123 Adjustment for fuel hedge accounting (133) (71) Adjusted Operating income, non-GAAP $ 4,121 $ 2,969 Average invested capital (3) $ 11,250 $ 11,288 Equity adjustment for hedge accounting 1,082 289 Adjusted average invested capital $ 12,332 $ 11,577 ROIC, pre-tax 33.4%   25.6%   (1) One-time adjustment related to the amendment of the Company's co-branded credit card agreement with Chase Bank USA, N.A. and a resulting change in accounting methodology. (2) Net adjustment related to presumption that all aircraft in fleet are owned (i.e., the impact of eliminating aircraft rent expense and replacing with estimated depreciation expense for those same aircraft). (3) Average invested capital is an average of the five most recent quarter end balances of debt, net present value of aircraft leases, and equity adjusted for hedge accounting.   Southwest Airlines Co. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (in millions) (unaudited) March 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 ASSETS Current assets:     Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,388 $ 1,583     Short-term investments 1,194 1,468     Accounts and other receivables 511 474     Inventories of parts and supplies, at cost 289 311     Prepaid expenses and other current assets 192 188          Total current assets 4,574 4,024 Property and equipment, at cost:     Flight equipment 19,735 19,462     Ground property and equipment 3,308 3,219     Deposits on flight equipment purchase contracts 1,202 1,089     Assets constructed for others 986 915 25,231 24,685     Less allowance for depreciation and amortization 9,267 9,084 15,964 15,601 Goodwill 970 970 Other assets 733 717 $ 22,241 $ 21,312 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities:     Accounts payable $ 1,153 $ 1,188     Accrued liabilities 2,472 2,591     Air traffic liability 3,675 2,990     Current maturities of long-term debt 953 637          Total current liabilities 8,253 7,406 Long-term debt less current maturities 2,355 2,541 Deferred income taxes 2,609 2,490 Construction obligation 825 757 Other noncurrent liabilities 703 760 Stockholders' equity:     Common stock 808 808     Capital in excess of par value 1,387 1,374     Retained earnings 9,872 9,409     Accumulated other comprehensive loss (894) (1,051)     Treasury stock, at cost (3,677) (3,182)          Total stockholders' equity 7,496 7,358 $ 22,241 $ 21,312   Southwest Airlines Co. Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (in millions) (unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2016 2015 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income $ 511 $ 453 Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 290 244 Unrealized/realized (gain) loss on fuel derivative instruments 88 11 Deferred income taxes 26 19 Changes in certain assets and liabilities: Accounts and other receivables (21) (130) Other assets 4 13 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 313 177 Air traffic liability 685 717 Cash collateral provided to derivative counterparties (231) (17) Other, net (49) (35) Net cash provided by operating activities 1,616 1,452 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Capital expenditures (438) (573) Assets constructed for others (11) (22) Purchases of short-term investments (256) (316) Proceeds from sales of short-term and other investments 530 609 Net cash used in investing activities (175) (302) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Proceeds from Employee stock plans 11 13 Proceeds from termination of interest rate derivative instruments — 12 Reimbursement for assets constructed for others 10 2 Payments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations (56) (51) Payments of cash dividends (96) (81) Repayment of construction obligation (2) (2) Repurchase of common stock (500) (300) Other, net (3) — Net cash used in financing activities (636) (407) NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 805 743 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD 1,583 1,282 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD $ 2,388 $ 2,025       Southwest Airlines Co. Fuel Derivative Contracts As of April 18, 2016 Estimated economic jet fuel price per gallon, including taxes Average Brent Crude Oil price per barrel 2Q 2016 (2) Full Year 2016 (2) $20 $1.20- $1.25 $1.45- $1.50 $30 $1.40- $1.45 $1.60- $1.65 Current Market (1) $1.75- $1.80 $1.85- $1.90 $50 $1.90- $1.95 $1.95- $2.00 $60 $2.05- $2.10 $2.05- $2.10 Period Maximum percent of estimated fuel consumption covered by fuel derivative contracts at varying WTI/Brent Crude Oil, Heating Oil, and Gulf Coast Jet Fuel-equivalent price levels 2017 62% 2018 35% (1) Brent crude oil average market price as of April 18, 2016, was approximately $43per barrel for second quarter 2016 and $41per barrel for full year 2016. (2) The economic fuel price per gallon sensitivities provided assume the relationship between Brent crude oil and refined products based on market prices as of April 18, 2016.     Southwest Airlines Co. 737 Delivery Schedule As of March 31, 2016 The Boeing Company The Boeing Company 737 NG 737 MAX -800 Firm Orders Options Additional -700s -7 Firm Orders -8 Firm Orders Options Total 2016 38 — 21 — — — 59 (2) 2017 33 — 14 — 14 — 61 2018 18 18 4 — 13 — 53 2019 — — — 15 10 — 25 2020 — — — 14 22 — 36 2021 — — — 1 33 18 52 2022 — — — — 30 19 49 2023 — — — — 24 23 47 2024 — — — — 24 23 47 2025 — — — — — 36 36 2026 — — — — — 36 36 2027 — — — — — 36 36 89 18 39 30 170 (1) 191 537 (1) The Company has flexibility to substitute 737-7 in lieu of 737-8 firm orders beginning in 2019. (2) Includes seven 737-800s and thirteen 737-700s delivered as of March 31, 2016.   NOTE REGARDING USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES The Company's unaudited consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. These GAAP financial statements include (i) unrealized non-cash adjustments and reclassifications, which can be significant, as a result of accounting requirements and elections made under accounting pronouncements relating to derivative instruments and hedging and (ii) other charges the Company believes are not indicative of its ongoing operational performance. As a result, the Company also provides financial information in this release that was not prepared in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to the information prepared in accordance with GAAP. The Company provides supplemental non-GAAP financial information, including results that it refers to as "economic," which the Company's management utilizes to evaluate its ongoing financial performance and the Company believes provides greater transparency to investors as supplemental information to its GAAP results. The Company's economic financial results differ from GAAP results in that they only include the actual cash settlements from fuel hedge contracts--all reflected within Fuel and oil expense in the period of settlement. Thus, Fuel and oil expense on an economic basis reflects the Company's actual net cash outlays for fuel during the applicable period, inclusive of settled fuel derivative contracts. Any net premium costs paid related to option contracts are reflected as a component of Other (gains) losses, net, for both GAAP and non-GAAP (including economic) purposes in the period of contract settlement. The Company believes these economic results provide a better measure of the impact of the Company's fuel hedges on its operating performance and liquidity since they exclude the unrealized, non-cash adjustments and reclassifications that are recorded in GAAP results in accordance with accounting guidance relating to derivative instruments, and they reflect all cash settlements related to fuel derivative contracts within Fuel and oil expense. This enables the Company's management, as well as investors, to consistently assess the Company's operating performance on a year-over-year or quarter-over-quarter basis after considering all efforts in place to manage fuel expense. However, because these measures are not determined in accordance with GAAP, such measures are susceptible to varying calculations and not all companies calculate the measures in the same manner. As a result, the aforementioned measures, as presented, may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Further information on (i) the Company's fuel hedging program, (ii) the requirements of accounting for derivative instruments, and (iii) the causes of hedge ineffectiveness and/or mark-to-market gains or losses from derivative instruments is included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. In addition to its "economic" financial measures, as defined above, the Company has also provided other non-GAAP financial measures, including results that it refers to as "excluding special items," as a result of items that the Company believes are not indicative of its ongoing operations. These include a one-time special revenue adjustment due to the July 2015 amendment of the Company's co-branded credit card agreement with Chase Bank USA, N.A. and a resulting change in accounting methodology, union contract bonuses recorded for certain workgroups, expenses associated with the Company's acquisition and integration of AirTran incurred in 2015, and a gain resulting from a litigation settlement received in January 2015. The Company believes that evaluation of its financial performance can be enhanced by a presentation of results that exclude the impact of these items in order to evaluate the results on a comparative basis with results in prior periods that do not include such items and as a basis for evaluating operating results in future periods. The Company does not expect to incur any further Acquisition and integration costs related to the AirTran acquisition. The Company has also provided free cash flow and ROIC, which are non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes free cash flow is a meaningful measure because it demonstrates the Company's ability to service its debt, pay dividends and make investments to enhance Shareholder value. Although free cash flow is commonly used as a measure of liquidity, definitions of free cash flow may differ; therefore, the Company is providing an explanation of its calculation for free cash flow. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company generated $1.2 billionin free cash flow, calculated as operating cash flows of $1.6 billionless capital expenditures of $438 millionless assets constructed for others of $11 million plus reimbursements for assets constructed for others of $10 million. The Company believes ROIC is a meaningful measure because it quantifies how well the Company generates operating income relative to the capital it has invested in its business. Although ROIC is commonly used as a measure of capital efficiency, definitions of ROIC may differ; therefore, the Company is providing an explanation of its calculation for ROIC in the accompanying reconciliation tables (see Return on Invested Capital). ... View more

, April 20, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Airlines Co.(NYSE: LUV) invites you to listen to a live webcast of its first quarter 2016 financial results. Details are as follows: When: Thursday, April 21, 2016 at 12:30 PM Eastern Time Who: Gary Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Tammy Romo, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Web Address: http://investors.southwest.com/ To access the live audio webcast, click on the link above, or go to www.southwest.comand click on "Investor Relations" under the "About Southwest" menu at the bottom of the page. Registration for this event begins 20 minutes prior to the start of the call. Upon completion of the live webcast, a replay will be available in the Investor Relations Events Calendar at http://investors.southwest.com/news-and-events/events-and-presentations, under "Past Events and Related Presentations."   To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/webcast-alert-southwest-airlines-to-discuss-first-quarter-2016-financial-results-on-april-21-2016-300252261.html SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co. ... View more

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) announced today that 73 nonprofit hospitals and medical organizations from across the nation will benefit from the Southwest Airlines® 2016 Medical Transportation Grant Program, with the total impact reaching 97 facilities. Through the program, participating nonprofit hospitals and medical programs provide complimentary, roundtrip air travel to families who need to travel for specialized medical care to lessen the financial burden of serious illness.   "Southwest Airlines has a nearly 45-year tradition of treating our Employees and Customers like family.  Families support each other during both good and challenging times, and we're honored to be able to serve our communities during a time of great need," said Linda Rutherford, Southwest Airlines Vice President and Chief Communications Officer. "The opportunity to connect someone to the things that are most important in their life drives us to find a network of hospitals and organizations that support this mission and provide the best possible treatment to their patients." Since the Southwest Airlines Medical Transportation Grant Program's inception in 2007, more than $19.6 millionin free transportation has been distributed to organizations in 26 states. "I knew this was one of those situations where I needed to be home, no matter the cost," shares Sarah Zawatski, a caregiver to her mother who received treatment at Banner University Medical Center Phoenix. "With this generous gift, I was able to fly out and not give too much care to the cost of the airline ticket. My care and attention needed to be focused on my mom." In 2016, Southwest will provide more than $3.2 millionin free transportation to caregivers and patients seeking medical treatment. Participating hospitals include: Angel Flight Central, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Banner University Medical Center Phoenix Transplant Center, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Cedars-Sinai, Children's Hospital & Medical Center, Children's Hospital Colorado Foundation, Children's Hospital Corporation, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Children's Hospital of Alabama, Children's Hospital of Orange County, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh  Foundation, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Inc., Children's Medical Center Foundation, Children's Mercy, Children's National Hospital, Cook Children's, Craig Hospital Foundation, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Dell Children's Hospital, Emory Healthcare, Froedtert Hospital Foundation Inc., Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Foundation, Long Island Jewish Health System , Loyola University Health Systems, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Massachusetts General Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Mercy Medical Angels, Mercy Medical Center, Miracle Flights for Kids, National Foundation for Facial Reconstruction for NYU Langone Medical Center, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Patient Airlift Services, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Piedmont Healthcare Foundation, Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, a Division of Duke University Health System, Inc., Rady Children's Hospital Foundation - San Diego, Riley Children's Hospital-IU Health, Rush University Medical Center, Scripps Health, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle Children's Hospital, Shepherd Center, Shriners Hospitals for Children, SSM St. Mary's Health Center Foundation, St. Joseph'sFoundation and Barrow Neurological Foundation, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, St. Louis Children's Hospital Foundation, St. Luke's Foundation, Stanford Health Care, Tampa General Hospital, Texas Children's Hospital, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Crippled Children, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, The Johns Hopkins Hospital & Johns Hopkins Children's Hospital, The Nemours Foundation, Children's Hospital, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, UCLA Medical Center, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital San Francisco, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, University Medical Center Tucson, formerly University of Arizona Medical Center, University Medical Center, Lubbock/University Medical Center Foundation, University of Chicago Medicine, University of Illinois Hospital & Health Science Systems, University of Minnesota Medical Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center Visit the NUTS About Southwest blog and www.southwest.com/medicalgrant to learn more about the positive impact of the Medical Transportation Grant Program. To learn about qualifications for travel assistance through the designated organizations, please contact the Social Work, Travel/Concierge Service, or Patient Assistance Department directly at the hospitals and medical organizations listed above, as each has unique guidelines for the administration of tickets. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.   In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 49,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually.  Southwest proudly operates a network of 97 destinations across the United Statesand seven additional countries with more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Service to Long Beach, California, our 98 th city, will begin June 5, 2016. Based on the U.S.Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S.airline to offer bags fly free®  to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look:  Heart.  The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S.Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets.  With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2014 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. ... View more

A Southwest passenger onboard flight 4620 heard another passenger make comments perceived to be threatening and notified our Crew. Both passengers involved in the situation spoke a shared language, Arabic. Our Crew responded by following protocol, as required by federal law, to investigate and report to law enforcement agencies any potential threat to civil aviation. It was the content of the passenger's conversation, not the language used, that prompted the report leading to our investigation. We provided the passenger an immediate refund of his unused ticket. Federal law enforcement agents became involved and conducted their own investigation. We regret any less than positive experience a Customer has onboard our aircraft. We welcome onboard more than a hundred million Customers each year; and we aim safely to transport each, while maintaining the comfort of all. Safety is our always first focus, and our Employees are trained to make decisions to safeguard the security of our Crews and Customers on every flight. We would not remove a passenger from a flight without a collaborative decision rooted in established procedures. Southwest neither condones nor tolerates discrimination of any kind. Our Company could not survive if we practiced or believed otherwise. In fact, a cursory view of our workforce, as well as our expansive, multi-cultural Customer base is a reliable indicator that we exalt and appreciate diversity.  ... View more

, April 15, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Airlines Co.(NYSE: LUV) invites you to listen to a live webcast of its first quarter 2016 financial results. Details are as follows: When: Thursday, April 21, 2016 at 12:30 PM Eastern Time Who: Gary Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Tammy Romo, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Web Address: http://investors.southwest.com/ To access the live audio webcast, click on the link above, or go to www.southwest.comand click on "Investor Relations" under the "About Southwest" menu at the bottom of the page. Registration for this event begins 20 minutes prior to the start of the call. Upon completion of the live webcast, a replay will be available in the Investor Relations Events Calendar at http://investors.southwest.com/news-and-events/events-and-presentations, under "Past Events and Related Presentations."   To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/webcast-alert-southwest-airlines-to-discuss-first-quarter-2016-financial-results-on-april-21-2016-300252261.html SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co. ... View more

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), today announced that they are accepting applications for the 12 th annual "¡Lánzate!/ Take Off!" Travel Award program. Prizes for the program will be provided by Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV). Online applications will be accepted through May 13, 2016, at hacu.net. The program is geared toward Latino college students with economic need who pursue higher education at least 200 miles away from home. All applicants must complete an online application including an essay describing their inspiration to pursue a college degree. Educators and education activists from around the country will form a diverse judging panel this summer to choose the 2016 Travel Award recipients. For more information about the prize and to view the criteria for the 2016 award program, please visit: SWAmedia.   Travel has been provided to 830 students since the program's inception in 2005. 2015 student recipient Gabriela Lopez shared, "Since receiving this award, I was able to spend this past Thanksgiving with my family. I particularly enjoyed the ease of being able to book arrival and departure dates that worked best with my school schedule without any financial limitations. I highly recommend this program to any student that lives far from the people they love and experiences financial barriers when planning a trip to visit them."  "At Southwest Airlines, we are passionate about connecting People to what's important in their lives," said Christine Ortega, Southwest Airlines Manager of Community Affairs & Grassroots. "Through the "¡Lánzate!/ Take Off!" Travel Award program, we are proud to help Latino students stay connected to their families. That connection to family is often the difference between staying in school and dropping out. We believe in strengthening the communities we serve and we're proud to play a part in helping these students achieve their dreams." "As the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities celebrates its 30-year milestone since its founding in San Antonio, Texas, we applaud the Southwest Airlines ¡Lánzate! Travel Award Program for the ongoing commitment to Championing Hispanic Success in Higher Education," said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. "It's difficult to be away from family starting a new life in college. The ¡Lánzate! Travel Award Program helps Hispanic families stay connected during the higher education journey." More than 1,700 Southwest Airlines® roundtrip tickets have been awarded to students across the nation since the program's inception in 2005. ABOUT HACU Founded in 1986, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) represents more than 450 colleges and universities committed to Hispanic higher education success in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Latin Americaand Spain. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The association headquarters are located in San Antonio, Texas, with government relations offices in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, California. This year, HACU is celebrating 30 years of championing Hispanic education. Information is available at www.hacu.net. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. In its 45th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 49,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest proudly operates a network of 97 destinations across the United Statesand seven additional countries with more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Based on the U.S.Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S.airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S.Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2014 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA. ... View more

Carrier continues to grow service in key BWI nonstop markets throughout 2016 This release contains: 1 Related Document Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today revised its existing flight schedule to add new flights to existing city pairs out of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) every day beginning Aug. 7 th and ending as late as Nov. 4 th . All additional flights are on sale immediately at Southwest.com. Customers can expect additional service announcements throughout 2016. "We continue to enhance service in the region to give our Customers exactly what they want—more flights and lower fares," said Dave Harvey, Managing Director, Business Development. "The first of what we told you we would bring to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) in terms of new flights in 2016 started flying yesterday to Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport. With the recent increase in our summer schedule, these new fall flight increases, and our international offering, there's one thing people from Baltimore can be certain of—we're committed to this region and this airport." New nonstop flights between these cities are now available at Southwest.com for travel Aug. 7 th  through Oct. 30 th : Monday through Saturday Baltimore to Denver from 4 to 5 daily trips New nonstop flights between these cities are now available at Southwest.com for travel Aug. 7 th  through Sept. 5 th : Sunday through Friday Baltimore to Seattle from 1 to 2 daily trips Baltimore to Portland, Maine from 3 to 4 daily trips New nonstop flights between these cities are now available at Southwest.com for travel Sept. 6 th  through Nov. 4 th : Baltimore to Boston from 9 to 10 daily trips on Monday through Friday from 7 to 8 daily trips on Saturdays from 8 to 9 daily trips on Sundays Baltimore to Minneapolis–Saint Paul from 2 to 3 daily trips on Sunday through Friday from 1 to 2 daily trips on Saturday Baltimore to New Orleans from 2 to 3 daily trips Baltimore to Portland, Maine from 3 to 4 daily trips Sunday through Friday from 4 to 5 daily trips on Saturday In March, Southwest announced summer frequency increases for six daily departing BWI flights to six destinations on weekdays including Oakland International Airport, Denver International Airport, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, Hartford's Bradley International Airport, Tampa International Airport, Orlando International Airport, and five on Saturdays only to Hartford's Bradley International Airport, Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Nashville International Airport, and Tampa International Airport. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements related to the Company's anticipated service offerings and network and capacity plans, opportunities, and expectations. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that are difficult to predict and that could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by them. Factors include, among others, (i) changes in demand for the Company's services and other changes in consumer behavior; (ii) the impact of economic conditions, fuel prices, actions of competitors (including without limitation pricing, scheduling, and capacity decisions and consolidation and alliance activities), and other factors beyond the Company's control, on the Company's business decisions, plans, and strategies; (iii) the impact of governmental regulations and other governmental actions related to the Company's operations; (iv) the Company's ability to timely and effectively maintain the necessary information technology systems and infrastructure to support its operations and initiatives; and (v) other factors, as described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the detailed factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2015. ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES In its 45 th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 49,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest proudly operates a network of 97 destinations across the United States and seven additional countries with more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as more than 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency℠, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives. From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 43 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2014 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com. Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.   # # # ... View more