As a business traveler in the 90s, I did whatever I could to avoid flying SWA, even for short-haul flights (e.g. LAX to OAK), preferring to fly the majors.
But your on-time records, extensive number of flights, and easy access through regional airports eventually won me over. By the mid-90s, I completely altered my airline preferences and traveled extensively on your airline, accumulating numerous free flights through your rewards program.
Your immoral and cavalier attitude towards passenger safety shattered that loyalty in 5 minutes -- the time it took to read the devious and underhanded maneuvers your corporation from the highest executive levels to thwart standard safety protocol. I will no longer fly SWA for any flight - for any reason.
I am forwarding the article to all of my business colleagues and friends who are currently SWA enthusiasts to persuade them in choosing other airlines as well.
You have a daunting challenge ahead to win back passenger loyalty. You may buy back the budget-conscious travelers with your famous low fare specials. But you're going to need unprecedented mea culpas and other efforts to win back your business travelers -- travelers whose families depend upon their livelihood and mortality -- travelers who cannot and will not gamble with their lives for cheap fares.
Sincerely,
T. Olson
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