Southwest Airlines Community

Southwest Airlines announced today that the carrier has renewed its relationship as the official sponsor of the National Basketball Association's (NBA's) Denver Nuggets. The sponsorship will include in-arena signage, promotions, contests, and more during Nuggets home games. Southwest has been the official airline sponsor of the Nuggets since the 2008/2009 season. To celebrate the continued relationship, Southwest will host a "Bags Fly Free" event outside of the Pepsi Center tonight to help tip-off opening night of the season. The first 40 fans to arrive at the tent and say "Bags Fly Free only on Southwest Airlines" will enter a chance to win tickets to the Nuggets game and roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines. "Denverites are passionate about their hometown Nuggets, and Southwest Airlines is passionate about Denver," said Southwest Airlines Vice President of Marketing, Sales, and Distribution Kevin Krone. "We're excited to see all that this partnership will bring to our valued Customers and to Nuggets fans!" "The Denver Nuggets are extremely proud to partner with a best-in-class brand like Southwest Airlines," said Executive Vice President of KSE, Paul Andrews. " We are committed to supporting the successful climb Southwest Airlines has accomplished in this market and look forward to strengthening their position as an industry leader." In addition to in-arena signage, the sponsorship will include advertising rights, halftime promotions with chances to win roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines, and Rapid Rewards frequent flyer incentives to Nuggets fans. Southwest Airlines began service to Denver on January 3, 2006, with 13 daily nonstop departures to three destinations. The airline currently operates 112 daily nonstop flights from the Mile High City, making Denver the fastest growing city in the Company's history. Last month, Southwest announced that the carrier will begin new nonstop service between Denver and Boston Logan; Denver and Spokane; and Denver and Reno/Tahoe in January 2010. With previously announced service, Southwest will operate 127 daily nonstop flights from Denver to 43 cities by May 2010. After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience. Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest convenient and simple. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 67 cities in 34 states (Southwest will add a 68th city, Milwaukee, November 1, 2009). Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide. www.southwest.com SOURCE Southwest Airlines CONTACT: Southwest Airlines Media Contact, +1-214-792-4847 ... View more

Come celebrate Southwest Airlines' new service in Milwaukee with a Southwest Airlines Touchdown Milwaukee Party on November 1st at McKinley Park on Lincoln Memorial Drive (just North of Veteran's Park). *  Enjoy the game on the giant video screen inside a heated tent. *  A chance to win Southwest Airlines Roundtrip Tickets and Southwest Airlines Vacations Packages *  Free brats, burgers and beverages. *  Coke Zero sampling. It's free to the public, but you must register to get your pass to the Southwest Airlines Touchdown Milwaukee Party. Grab your bag--It's on! New nonstops from Milwaukee to Baltimore/Washington (BWI), Kansas City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Phoenix and Tampa Bay start November 1st! www.southwest.com/tailgatevip ... View more

We asked, and you answered. You still really, really love the low-cost airlines. When we put it to SmarterTravel readers to pick their favorite and least favorite airlines again this year, some familiar names turned up in both the positive and negative categories. More than 7,400 of you participated in the voting for our second annual Readers' Choice Awards. You told us you're active travelers, with most of you taking four to six flights this year alone; you're also value-conscious, and consider price the most influential factor in determining airfare purchases. The airlines in the running were AirTran, Alaska, American, Continental, Delta , Frontier, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Midwest, Northwest, Southwest, Spirit, United, US Airways, and Virgin America, all vying for your votes in 12 categories. Here's how you rated the major players in the airline industry. to read more, visit: http://www.smartertravel.com/Readers-Choice-2009 ... View more

Southwest Airlines announced today its latest fare sale. Customers can purchase one-way travel for $25, $50, $75, or $100 based on length of trip. For travel up to 375 miles, fares are $25 one-way. For travel between 375 and 549 miles, fares are $50 one-way. For travel between 550 and 999 miles, fares are $75 one-way. Lastly, for travel more than 1,000 miles, fares are just $100 one-way. With Southwest, Customers can purchase one-way airfare for what other airlines charge to check just one bag! These fares are available through 11:59 pm PST Oct. 29, 2009, for travel between Dec. 2, 2009, and Dec. 16, 2009, or travel between Jan. 5, 2010, and Feb. 10, 2010. To see the list of markets, prices, and to take advantage of these special fares, visit www.southwest.com. “Southwest Airlines saw great success with our wild 48-hour sale fare sale in July and wanted to offer even more discounts to Customers,” said Kevin Krone, Southwest’s Vice President of Marketing, Sales, and Distribution. “These fares are so low; Customers can invent a reason to go!” After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation’s leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service.  At Southwest Airlines, bags fly free. Customers can check their first two bags at no extra charge (size and weight limits apply). Southwest offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom.  Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 67 cities (adding Milwaukee Nov. 1, 2009) in 34 states.  Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide. FARE RULES Fares are available on www.southwest.com or www.swabiz.com only. Southwest Airlines sale fares are available for purchase from Oct. 27, 2009, through 11:59 PST Oct. 29, 2009. Travel must take place between Dec. 2, 2009, and Dec. 16, 2009, or between Jan. 5, 2010, and Feb. 10, 2010. Travel valid everyday except Sundays. Fares do not include a federal segment tax of $3.60 per takeoff and landing.  Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9.00 and U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 one-way.  Seats are limited, especially to popular destinations such as Florida and Las Vegas. 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.  Fares are available for one-way travel. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward the purchase of future travel on Southwest Airlines.  Fares are not available through the Group Desk.  Any change in the itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Reservations made through www.southwestvacations.com are not eligible for this promotion. Standby travel requires an upgrade to the Anytime Fare. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Fares are valid on published, scheduled service only.    www.southwest.com Media Please Contact:   Southwest Airlines Public Relations at 214-792-4847 ... View more

Who can remember the last time Southwest offered fare sales starting at $25? I can, but I have to admit, I was still in grade school. Depending on the length of travel, you can fly for $25/$50/$75/$100 one way starting...now! These crazy cheap fares are available for purchase through 11:59 pm PST Oct. 29, 2009, for travel between Dec. 2, 2009, and Dec. 16, 2009, or travel between Jan. 5, 2010, and Feb. 10, 2010. Customers can purchase one-way tickets for $25, $50, $75, or $100 based on length of travel. For travel up to 375 miles, fares are $25 one-way. For travel between 375 and 549 miles, fares are $50 one-way. For travel between 550 and 999 miles, fares are $75 one-way. For travel more than 1000 miles, fares are $100 one-way. With prices this low, you should invent a reason to go. Whether it’s a vacation from your vacation or a last-minute trip to the beach before school starts again, take advantage of these special fares, visit southwest.com. Don’t forget to bring your two (free) bags along as well!    To book, click here:   southwest.com     UPDATE as of 10/27 15:30 Our web site experienced difficulties earlier today, but our booking and boarding functionality is up and running now. We will continue to monitor our site and ensure it’s running smoothly. Thanks to everyone for their patience!   ... View more

By ANDREA AHLES FORT WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM “To celebrate our new in-flight wine selection, tell us why ‘You'd Rather Be Drinking Wine than Working,'.” tweeted Southwest Airlines. to read more, visit: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/6685854.html ... View more

BY LEWIS LAZARE Sun-Times Columnist Most airlines have been busy much of the last year slashing capacity in response to a sharp downturn in air travel. Low-fare behemoth Southwest Airlines has cut flights, too. But several months ago, Southwest apparently decided it was time to stand up and take a leadership role within the beaten-down aviation industry. to read more, visit: http://www.suntimes.com/business/lazare/1845732,CST-FIN-lew26.article ... View more

I spent the better part of the day out at Hangar 5 and Freedom Hall at Southwest Airlines corporate headquarters just off the fence line of Dallas Love Field. It is a stretch to call what we do "mainstream media" but the good folks at Southwest Airlnes have invited me twice now to their annual "Media Day" and for that I count them as in the "get it" category when it comes to "new media". to read more, visit: http://rickseaney.com/2009/10/21/southwest-airllines-going-green-to-panama-city/ ... View more

Southwest Airlines announced today that the airline will continue its growth and commitment to Denver by adding 13 new daily flights and six new nonstop destinations next year from the Mile High City.  For sale beginning today, Southwest will add six new flights to five new nonstop destinations beginning in March 2010.  To book travel, visit:  www.southwest.com.  Southwest will add seven additional daily flights to existing destinations for travel beginning in May 2010, which will open for sale in December 2009.  To view a blog post, visit: http://blogsouthwest.com.            “We have consistently invested flights and resources to support our growing Denver operation, and we’ll continue to do so,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest’s Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO.  “Denver has been a great success story for Southwest, and, as a result, we’ve been able to grow at a record pace.” Kelly announced the expanded service today while visiting Denver to meet with Southwest Employees at Denver International Airport (DIA).        With more flights come more jobs, and Southwest is hosting a Career Fair on Tuesday, October 27, 2009, at the Doubletree Hotel at 3203 Quebec St.  The Career Fair will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom, where Southwest Employees from the Company’s People Department will be available to provide information about career opportunities at Southwest Airlines, in Denver and in other Southwest cities around the nation.  Southwest has grown from about 40 Employees in Denver in 2006 to more than 380 today.  In the past six months, Southwest has hired more than 50 Employees in Denver.          BEGINNING MARCH 14, 2010 (open for sale today – see fare rules below):   One new daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Hartford (as low as $79 one-way). One new daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Boise (as low as $79 one-way). One new daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Ontario (as low as $79 one-way). One new daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Detroit (as low as $79 one-way). One new daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Washington Dulles (as low as $79 one-way). One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Oklahoma City (for a total of three daily).     BEGINNING MAY 2010 (open for sale in December 2009):   One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Sacramento (for a total of three daily). One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Tulsa (for a total of three daily). One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and New Orleans (for a total of two daily). One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Portland (for a total of three daily). One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Oakland (for a total of four daily). One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Baltimore/Washington (for a total of four daily). One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between Denver and Seattle (for a total of three daily). One new Saturday-only nonstop roundtrip between Denver and New York LaGuardia (weekday service offered on one-stop basis).       To support the airline’s expanding operation, Southwest recently acquired two additional gates at DIA, growing from 10 to 12 preferentially leased gates on Concourse C.     Southwest Airlines began service to Denver on January 3, 2006, with 13 daily nonstop departures to three destinations.  The airline currently operates 112 daily nonstop flights from the Mile High City, making Denver the fastest growing city in the Company’s history.  Last month, Southwest announced that the carrier will begin new nonstop service between Denver and Boston Logan; Denver and Spokane; and Denver and Reno/Tahoe in January 2010.  With the previously announced service and the new flights being announced today, Southwest will operate 127 daily nonstop flights from Denver to 43 cities by May 2010.   After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service.  Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience.  Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest convenient and simple.  Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 67 cities in 34 states (Southwest will add a 68th city, Milwaukee, November 1, 2009).  Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.   FARE RULES Southwest Airlines sale fares are available for purchase October 22, 2009, through 11:59 p.m. PDT on October 26, 2009, and travel must take place between March 15, 2010, and May 7, 2010.  Travel valid every day except Fridays & Sundays. Fares are valid on nonstop service only.  Seats are limited.  Fares may vary by destinations, flight, and day of travel.  Fares do not include a federal excise tax of $3.60 for each flight segment.  A flight segment is defined as a takeoff and a landing.  Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9.00 and U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 one-way.  Fares are available for one-way travel. Fares may be combined with other combinable fares.  When combining fares, all rules and restrictions apply.  Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward the purchase of future travel on Southwest Airlines.  Fares are not available through the Group Desk.  Any change in the itinerary may result in an increase in fare.  Standby travel requires an upgrade to the Anytime fare.  Fares are subject to change until ticketed.  Offer applies to published, scheduled service only.      www.southwest.com   Media Please Contact: Southwest Airlines Public Relations at (214) 792-4847 ... View more

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today announces its intent to begin jet  service from Northwest Florida’s new international airport near Panama City, Florida  in May 2010.  The planned service is made possible through a strategic alliance agreement developed between Southwest and The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE), one of Florida’s largest landowners and real estate developers. The new airport will introduce daily jet service to the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, providing Southwest Customers easy access to its stunning white-sand beaches and vibrant communities. For more information on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast, please visit www.thebeachfla.com. Southwest has not released specific service details, saying only that it will add at least two daily nonstop flights from Northwest Florida to four destinations across its 68 airport network for a total of eight daily nonstop flights when it begins service next year. Northwest Florida will be the first international airport to open in the nation in more than a decade. The new international airport is currently under construction and is scheduled to open in May 2010. Specific details on Southwest’s fares and schedule will be available in December 2009.             “I am certain our more than 90 million annual Customers will be delighted to learn they are now free to hit Florida’s white-sand beaches with Southwest Airlines’ great, low-fare service from across the nation's largest airline network, taking Northwest Florida visitors off the roadways and into the airways,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest's Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO. “I would like to applaud the ingenuity and hard work that both Southwest and St. Joe leadership poured into this unique agreement.” Kelly said.               “Southwest's arrival in Northwest Florida is expected to stimulate job growth, economic development, and give travelers more of the options they've been seeking,” said Britt Greene, President and CEO of St. Joe.  “St. Joe is the largest landowner in Northwest Florida with hundreds of thousands of acres in the service area of the new airport site.  Southwest will help position Northwest Florida as one of America’s leading beach destinations.  At the same time, this region is also home to one of the world’s most important defense aerospace economic clusters anchored by U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Army aviation installations.” A number of regional organizations are assisting in launching the service.  Coastal Vision 3000, the Northwest Florida business group that created the regional destination brand, "The Beach,” is participating in the initiative.  The Bay County Tourism Development Council and The South Walton Tourism Development Council have pledged marketing resources.  The Panama City – Bay County International Airport and Industrial District has worked hard to enable new air service. The Company will release additional details regarding its future Panama City service in the coming months.  The airline’s entry into Florida’s panhandle will be made possible in part by the airline optimizing its current flight schedule and repositioning aircraft.   Additional Information Additional information with respect to the terms of the strategic alliance agreement between Southwest and St. Joe, including financial obligations, will be available in a Form 8-K that will be filed by St. Joe with the Securities and Exchange Commission today. To view a blog post on this news, visit: http://www.blogsouthwest.com. About Southwest After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom. Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest Airlines even more convenient. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) currently serves 67 cities in 34 states (Service to Milwaukee begins Nov.1 making it our 68th). Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide. More information about Southwest can be found at our web site at http://www.southwest.com About St. Joe   The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE), a publicly held company based in Jacksonville, is one of Florida’s largest real estate development companies and Northwest Florida’s largest private landowner.  St. Joe is primarily engaged in real estate development and sales, with significant interests in timber.   More information about JOE can be found on its web site at www.joe.com.   SOURCE Southwest Airlines The St. Joe Company CONTACT: Southwest Airlines Brandy King, Senior Manager, Communications +1-214-792-4847 ... View more

Southwest Airlines announced today that the airline will continue the carrier’s nearly 25 years of growth and commitment to St. Louis by adding nine new daily flights to six new destinations from Lambert International Airport.  The new flights are expected to begin by May 2010 and will be open for sale this December at www.southwest.com.  To view a blog post, visit: NEED LINK.           “Our Employees saw opportunity and worked vigorously to incorporate additional capacity in the St. Louis market,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest’s Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO.  “We are optimizing our network strategically and strengthening the relationship between Southwest Airlines and the communities we serve.” BEGINNING MAY 2010: •    Two new daily nonstop roundtrips between St. Louis and Nashville. •    One new daily nonstop roundtrip between St. Louis and Raleigh/Durham. •    One new daily nonstop roundtrip between St. Louis and New Orleans. •    Two new daily nonstop roundtrips between St. Louis and Los Angeles. •    One new daily nonstop roundtrip between St. Louis and Seattle.   •    One new daily nonstop roundtrip between St. Louis and San Diego. •    One additional daily nonstop roundtrip between St. Louis and Minneapolis/St. Paul (nonstop service between those cities launches with two daily roundtrips in January). Southwest Airlines began service to St. Louis on March 17, 1985, with 17 daily nonstop departures to four destinations.  The airline currently operates 72 daily nonstop flights from Lambert-St. Louis with additional or connecting service to 42 destinations.  With previously announced nonstop service additions to Minneapolis/St Paul and Boston Logan (beginning January 10, 2010) and the future service above, Southwest becomes the dominant airline serving St. Louis, in terms of daily departures. After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service.  Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience.  Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest convenient and simple.  Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 67 cities in 34 states (Southwest will add a 68th city, Milwaukee, Nov. 1, 2009).  Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.   www.southwest.com Media Please Contact: Southwest Airlines Public Relations at (214) 792-4847 ... View more

-- Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) today announced at its annual Media Day a "green plane," an innovative idea that marries efficiency, environmentally responsible products, Customer comfort, and reduced waste and weight. This plane, a Boeing 737-700, will serve as a test environment for new environmentally responsible materials and Customer comfort products. It is a flying testament to the airline's philosophy that environmental decisions make good business sense. All of the initiatives being tested on this Green Plane, when combined, will equate to a weight savings of almost five pounds per seat, thus saving fuel and reducing emissions, along with adding recyclable elements to the cabin interior and reducing waste. "Southwest is committed to continuing to lead the industry in emissions reductions through fuel efficiency. Efficiency in fuel consumption benefits our Company as well as the environment, and this has been part of our business model since the beginning," said Gary Kelly, Southwest's Chairman, President, and CEO. "As we look to the future, we know climate change remains of vital importance to our industry, our Company, and our Customers, so Southwest works hard every day in every area to be a responsible steward of the environment." Southwest has designated one aircraft to serve as a test for eco-friendly products, which include:     --  InterfaceFLOR Carpet - this carpet reduces labor and material costs         because it is installed in sections, thus eliminating the need for total         replacement of areas such as aisles, where Southwest currently uses one         single piece of carpet. The 100 percent recyclable carpet is returned to         the manufacturer at the end of its service life and completely         re-manufactured into new carpet; the process is completely carbon         neutral.     --  Seat covers - two new products that will be tested on the aircraft         seats, offering more than twice the durability than the current leather         seats as well as a weight savings of almost two pounds per seat.         --  On one side of the aisle, e-Leather is an eco-friendly, lightweight             and scuff resistant man-made alternative to traditional leather. It             is made from recycled materials that have been discarded by the             leather industry. It is then upgraded utilizing eco-friendly             technology, resulting in composition leather, a man-made material.         --  On the other side of the aisle, IZIT Leather, a new breed of premium             leather alternative, is an evolutionary step beyond calf skin that             offers a lightweight product that is both economical and durable,             but with the genuine appearance and touch of luxurious leather.     --  Life Vest Pouch - more environmentally friendly because it offers a         weight savings of one pound per passenger, replacing the current metal         container with lighter durable canvas. The smaller pouch also creates         more room under the seat for carryon items and offers productivity         improvements due to design change.     --  Foam Fill - A lighter weight fill from Garnier PURtec in the back of the         seats that reduces weight while providing increased Customer comfort.     --  Passenger Seat Rub Strips - switching from plastic to aluminum will help         with durability, which reduces waste, as well as being recyclable. "Southwest is proud to lead the aviation industry in environmental stewardship and honored to be working with these eco-friendly vendors and our partners at Boeing," Kelly says. "We are excited to test their forward-thinking products and expect these green products to not only help the environment, but also create a fuel and materials cost saving for Southwest." In addition to the green plane, Southwest also announced the Nov. 1 kickoff of its more robust onboard recycling program, which is a co-mingled system that will allow the airline to capture more recyclable material and divert it from the waste stream. This 18-month process involved team work from all areas of the Company to implement the program on the ground at its Provisioning Bases and re-working of waste collection procedures in the cabin. "The initiative by the Southwest Airlines Green Team, Facilities Maintenance, Inflight Department, and Provisioning Department was a truly heroic effort; when you serve nearly 68 cities there are often 68 different ways to implement a program," Kelly says. "We appreciate the hard work of our recycling vendor, Republic Services, and we are excited to take a very effective recycling program and make it even better." Environmental Stewardship is a responsibility Southwest takes seriously, and efficient operations are the hallmark of our Company and the foundation of our environmental commitment. Over the decades, Southwest has been at the forefront of such efficiencies as paperless tickets, quick turnarounds, installation of winglets, and, more recently; the installation of fleet-wide advanced avionics. This focus on efficiency not only makes good business sense, it is the right thing to do. For more information on how Southwest Airlines cares for the environment, visit www.southwest.com/cares. www.southwest.com SOURCE Southwest Airlines      Media Contact: Public Relations of Southwest Airlines, +1-214-792-4847 ... View more

WHAT:    Southwest Airlines is hosting Media Day today at the                   airlines headquarters in Dallas.  Gary Kelly will be                   breaking news during his presentation--so be sure to tune in!                   To participate in the live webcast of Gary's 1:00 pm                   announcement, visit:                   http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=63169.                   Immediately following Gary's presentation, Southwest                   will be webcasting a presentation by Kevin Krone, Southwest                   Airlines Vice President of Marketing, Sales, and                   Distribution.                   If you are unable to view streaming media, follow                   Southwest Airlines on Twitter for the latest updates                   throughout the day: www.twitter.com/southwestair     WHEN:         Wed., Oct. 21, 2008                   1:00 p.m. Central Time     OTHER     INFORMATION:  Presentations from Southwest Airlines Leaders and other                   Media Day information can be viewed at www.swamedia.com                   after 5 p.m. CDT.                   If you experience problems listening to the webcast,                   send an E-mail to: webcast@multivu.com.                   To contact Southwest Airlines Media Relations, please call                   214-792-4847. www.southwest.com ... View more

Can a picture inspire a vacation?  Southwest Airlines thinks it can! Southwest Airlines is looking for your “Vacation Inspiring Photos,” or VIPs - original, jaw dropping, grab-your-bags–right-now-because-It’s-On! photos to feature on the Southwest Airlines Travel Guide. “There are times when you see a picture of a beautiful landscape, a charming café, or the bright lights of a big city, and it makes you just want to pack your bags and go,” said Athena Halton, Southwest Airlines Online Marketing Specialist.  “We’re looking for those VIPs, or Vacation Inspiring Photos, and we’ve got great prizes for the best of the best.” From October 20, 2009, through November 13, 2009, Customers can submit travel photos via the Southwest Airlines Travel Guide.  Each week, the airline will select one winning photo and the winner will receive a new digital Kodak camera. One Grand Prize winner will receive two roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines and have his or her photo featured in the airline’s onboard magazine, Spirit. To Enter: ·        Visit http://www.southwest.com/vipcontest/ and create a Travel Guide profile.   ·        Add a Trip titled “(insert city name) has VIPs!” For Example:  “DENVER has VIPs!” ·        Enter the appropriate destination city name ·        Upload your photo ·        Title the photo “VIP Contest – (insert title of photo).”  For Example:  “VIP Contest—Rocky Mountains” About Travel Guide Travel Guide offers Southwest Airlines’ Customers insights, tips, and unbiased opinions from a vast network of other travelers within a friendly and relaxed community built on unscripted traveler dialogue. Customers can utilize the site for pre-trip planning or as an outlet to share travel knowledge by posting photos, videos, ratings, and written reviews either during or after their trip.  The Guide also includes some hints and tips from the best travel experts we know—our own Southwest Airlines' Employees!  Customers can create their own Travel Guide profile and search for information on their favorite vacation spots by desired destination, activity, or theme. About Southwest Airlines After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service.  Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience.  Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest convenient and simple.  Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 67 cities in 34 states (soon to be 68 with Milwaukee service beginning Nov. 1, 2009).  Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide. CONTEST RULES Southwest Airlines Travel Guide’s  “Vacation Inspiring Photo(s)” Contest NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.  A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCE OF WINNING.  VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. How to Enter the Contest 1.    Submission Format: Southwest Airlines “My Vacation Inspiring Photo(s)” (“Contest”) will begin on or around 12 a.m. CT on Monday, October 20, 2009, and will end on or around 4 p.m. CT on Wednesday, November 13th, 2009. ·         Visit southwest.com/travelguide and create a Travel Guide profile.   ·         Add a new Trip to your Travel Guide profile: ·         Title your Trip:  (Insert City Name) has VIPs!  (Ex. Dallas has VIPs!) ·         Enter the appropriate destination ·         Upload a photo:  Submit a Vacation Inspiring Photo(s)    o        (Required format: photo must be submitted as a 528x193 jpg) ·         Title your photo:  “VIP Contest –(insert title of photo)”.  (Ex. “VIP Contest—Rocky Mountains”) All entries submitted become the sole property of Southwest Airlines and will not be acknowledged or returned.  Proof of submission of an entry shall not be deemed proof of receipt by Southwest.  Southwest Airlines computer is the official time keeping device for the contest.  Southwest is not responsible for entries not received due to difficulty accessing the Internet, service outage or delays, computer difficulties, or other technological glitches.   2.   Eligibility Restrictions a.    The contest is open to legal residents of the 48 contiguous state who are 18 years of age or older as of October 19, 2009. Employees of Southwest Airlines have to be in good standing and on the payroll as of October 19, 2009.   b.    Only one winner per household is permitted. c.    Entrants are required to provide truthful information and Southwest will reject and delete any entry that it discovers to be false or fraudulent.  Southwest Airlines will disqualify any entry from individuals who do not meet the eligibility requirements 3.   Vacation Inspiring Photos—“Helpful Hints” ·         Ask yourself, “Does this photo remind me that it’s been too long since I had a vacation?” ·         Focus on showing photos with scenery in the background. (e.g., beautiful photos of city landmarks) ·         Avoid images taken inside a building and with large groups of people. ·         Inappropriate photos will not be posted or entered for judging 4.  Prizes: a.    One (1) Grand Prize winner will receive the following:  1) A full page placement of his/her winning photo in our Southwest Airlines Spirit magazine (2010 issue; month TBD),  2) Winning photo showcased within southwest.com Travel Guide (on the appropriate destination page), and  3) Two green passes for travel to any of our Southwest Airlines destinations.  (Approximate Retail Value ("ARV"): $1,000)   Certain travel restrictions may apply.  Travel arrangements must be made through Southwest Airlines.  No prize substitutions, cash equivalent, or transfer of prizes permitted except at the sole discretion of Southwest Airlines.   All other costs not specifically stated herein, including, but not limited to, taxes, meals, tips, and ground transportation, are the responsibility of the winner.  Taxes are solely the responsibility of the winner.  Winner and travel companion must travel on the same itinerary and are responsible for obtaining all required travel documents.  In addition, travel companion of Winner must be 18 years of age or older.   Winner and travel companion are responsible for obtaining travel insurance (and all other forms of insurance) where applicable, at their option, and hereby acknowledge that Southwest Airlines has not and will not obtain or provide travel insurance or any other form of insurance.   Tickets are subject to terms and conditions as specified by Southwest Airlines.  (Should the Grand Prize Winner be an Employee of Southwest Airlines, then he/she will be awarded two blue passes in exchange for the two green passes.)  Southwest Airlines reserve the right to remove or to deny entry to winner and/or guest if he/she engages in a disruptive manner, or with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten, or harass any other person. b.   Four (4) First Prize Weekly Winners will receive a Kodak digital camera.  (Approximate Retail Value: $200)   c.    In the event that a prize or prize certificate is mailed to the Winner, it will be with the prior written consent of the Winner and therefore, Winner assumes the risk of its loss.  Southwest Airlines is not responsible for the safe arrival of a prize or prize certificate. 5.   Selection of Winners Decisions of Southwest Airlines management with respect to the Contest are final. a.    The top five Vacation Inspiring Photo(s) Winners will be selected by a Southwest Airlines panel of judges from the Marketing/Communications Department to determine the most inspiring vacation photo.   All submissions will be judged on the following:  Created Travel Guide Profile (33%), Quality of photo submitted with required formatting sizes met (33%) and Photo submitted is deemed a Vacation Inspiring Photo (33%). b.     Winners must execute and return any required affidavit of eligibility and/or liability/publicity release within ten (10) days of notification attempt or prize will be forfeited and an alternate Winner may be chosen. If a potential Winner cannot be contacted, fails to sign and return the required affidavit of eligibility and liability/publicity release within the required time period, or if a prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, potential Winner forfeits prize. 6.   Conditions a.    By participating in the contest, the Winner or Winners agree to have their name, voice, or likeness used in any advertising or broadcasting material relating to this contest without additional financial or other compensation, unless prohibited by law and, where legal, to sign a publicity release confirming such consent prior to acceptance of the prize. b.    Prior to awarding any prize or prize certificate, Southwest Airlines in its sole discretion may require contest Winners (and their travel companions, if any) to sign a liability release, agreeing to hold Southwest Airlines and its Officers, Shareholders, Directors, Employees, Agents and Representatives harmless against any and all claims or liability arising directly or indirectly from the prize or participation in the Contest. c.    Southwest Airlines, in is sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person tampering with the entry process or the operation of Southwest Airlines web site or who is otherwise in violation of the rules.  It further reserves the right to cancel, terminate, or modify the contest if it is not capable of completion as planned, including infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, or technical failures of any sort. d.    Southwest Airlines reserve the right to make changes in the rules of the Contest, including the substitution of a prize or equivalent value, which will become effective upon announcement.  If due to circumstances beyond the control of Southwest Airlines, any competition or prize-related event is delayed, rescheduled, postponed or cancelled.  Southwest Airlines reserves the right, but not the obligation, to cancel or modify the contest and shall not be required to award a substitute prize. e.    Southwest Airlines is not responsible for typographical or other errors in the printing, the offering or the administration of the Contest, or in the announcement of a prize. f.    Copies of the written Contest rules and a list of Winners (when complete) are available during regular business hours at Southwest Airlines Online Marketing 2702 Love Field Dr. Dallas, TX 75235 Contact: Southwest Airlines, Whitney Eichinger 214.792.6604 Whitney.Eichinger@wnco.com ... 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Last week the Consumer Travel Alliance completed an extensive survey of the readers of this blog and other blogs to determine which airlines ranked as our favorites. We also asked, “Why do you like your favorite airline?” Here are the results. The real meat of the study comes in why passengers like particular airlines. We found that Southwest was ranked high because of price and customer service. to read more, visit: http://www.consumertraveler.com/today/poll-airlines-we-love-and-why-we-love-them/ ... View more

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) said today that Southwest Airlines is reinstating a nonstop flight from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) to Nashville, effective March 14, 2010. to read more, visit: http://www.examiner.com/x-10977-Jacksonville-Transportation-Examiner~y2009m10d16-Southwest-adds-flight-to-Music-City?cid=exrss-Jacksonville-Transportation-Examiner ... View more

By Justin Bachman The $15 you fork over at the airport to check a suitcase helps a financially ailing airline's bottom line. Perhaps it persuades some families to drive instead. But can this $15—and the other fees airlines are piling on—be prompting passengers to switch airlines? to read more, visit: http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/oct2009/db20091014_070900.htm ... View more

'Southwest Airlines is riding the blogosphere like a wild horse,' read the program description of Paula Berg's talk at the 2009 Inbound Marketing Summit, which was held in Boston last week on October 7 - 8. Berg's presentation was titled 'Nuts About Online Communication' and she discussed how Southwest has learned to leverage social media tools with its award-winning blog, as well as tools including Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook. to read more, visit: http://www.airlinenewsresource.com/article41628.html ... View more

By Chris De Benedetti Love was in the air at Oakland International Airport last weekend. Literally — even though the plane never left the tarmac. Most of the airport was a ghost town Saturday night, par for the course on a normally light travel day. That is, except for Gate 20 in Terminal 2, where Chris and Megan Duhrkoop gathered with friends and family for a one-of-a-kind wedding. A buzzing, electric crowd of more than 100 people shared drinks and laughs. Some even danced while an Oakland-based marimba band played, lending a tropical, exotic mood to an already festively surreal location. to read more, visit: http://www.insidebayarea.com/news/ci_13546652 ... View more

"We gauge which firms score at leveraging the platform." To read more, visit: http://www.adweek.com/aw/content_display/special-reports/other-reports/e3id3d058ba458918f0ad8e0fa4ed4bb973?pn=5 ... View more

to read, visit: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33281366/ns/travel-news/ ... View more

Southwest Airlines announced today the addition of The Venetian and The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino properties as new preferred partners of the carrier’s frequent flyer program, Rapid Rewards.  Rapid Rewards Members now have the option to earn Rapid Rewards credit for each qualifying stay at both hotel properties.  Additionally, Members who book their hotel stays on southwest.com by Nov. 5, 2009, can earn double credit for stays through Dec. 31, 2009.  To book a reservation, visit: southwest.com.     “Southwest is the largest airline serving Las Vegas, and this new partnership with The Venetian and The Palazzo brings added value to the millions of Customers we transport to Las Vegas each year,” said Ryan Green, Southwest’s director of customer loyalty.     “We are pleased to be the first and only Las Vegas Resort-Hotel-Casino property to partner with Southwest Airlines on their renowned Rapid Rewards Program,” stated Manny Olaiz, senior vice president of leisure sales for The Venetian and The Palazzo.  “Consumers who participate in this program and stay at one of our Las Vegas properties will enjoy luxurious amenities and excellent service while earning Rapid Reward credits towards their next flight on Southwest Airlines.  This is a great benefit and added value for our guests.” About Southwest Airlines It is fast and easy to earn free travel through Rapid Rewards.  Rapid Rewards Members earn credits by flying or using the program’s Preferred Partners.  It takes just eight roundtrips, or 16 credits, to qualify for an Award.  However, Members can accelerate their earnings by using the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Credit Card from Chase, doing business with any of the airline’s other Preferred Partners, or by purchasing Southwest’s Business Select fares when flying.  Plus, once it’s earned, Southwest Airlines allows the Member to transfer the Award to anyone.  The Award is free but subject to the U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $10 roundtrip. After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service.  Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience.  Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest convenient and simple.  Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 67 cities in 34 states.  Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide. About The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino Las Vegas The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino, the largest property in the country to receive AAA’s Five Diamond Award and Mobil Four-Star, is one of the world’s most luxurious resort and convention destinations. Re-creating Venice’s legendary landmarks, the resort offers unmatched service and quality for leisure and corporate guests. Located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, The Venetian features The Grand Canal Shoppes, an indoor streetscape complete with gondolas and singing gondoliers, the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, world-class gaming, exquisite restaurants, and a wide variety of entertainment such as Phantom-The Las Vegas Spectacular, Blue Man Group, David Spade and Wayne Brady on its premises, as well as extensive convention and corporate services. For additional information, visit www.venetian.com. About The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino Las Vegas With over 3,000 expansive suites, luxury shopping and world-class dining and entertainment, the $1.9 billion, 50-story Palazzo Las Vegas literally takes luxury to new heights.  Highlighted by a flagship, 85,000-square-foot Barneys New York, The Shoppes at The Palazzo features more than 60 luxury boutiques.  In addition, 20 remarkable stores and luxury brands made their Las Vegas debuts at The Palazzo, including Chloe, Tory Burch, Christian Louboutin, Diane Von Furstenberg, Van Cleef & Arpels, Catherine Malandrino, Anya Hindmarch, and Michael Kors.  Additionally, The Palazzo offers a variety of cuisines from a collection of award-winning chefs such as CarneVino by Mario Batali, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Table 10 by Emeril Lagasse and Restaurant Charlie by Charlie Trotter. Other one-of-a-kind offerings include, Tony Award winning Broadway musical, JERSEY BOYS, the chic dining and nightlife LAVO, the world’s largest Canyon Ranch SpaClub, and Lagasse’s Stadium, the newest sportsbook and bar on the Strip.  For more information, please visit The Palazzo website at www.palazzolasvegas.com. ... View more

By Brian Gaar AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF If you watch football on Sundays, you've probably seen a commercial or two for Southwest Airlines Co., trumpeting the airline's features for budget-conscious travelers, such as no fees to check bags. Shot at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the ads are part of a campaign that the airline launched this summer and has extended into the fall. Southwest officials credit GSD&M Idea City, the airline's longtime advertising agency, for the successful run. to read more, visit: http://www.statesman.com/business/content/business/stories/other/2009/10/01/1001southwest.html ... View more

Southwest Airlines employees have partnered with the American Red Cross to show support for people displaced by disasters across the nation. to read more, visit: http://www.newson6.com/global/story.asp?s=11259888 ... View more