Southwest Weighs New Aircraft for Possible Europe Flights

Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan said the carrier would need a different type of aircraft to launch flights to Europe, signaling that its all-Boeing 737 fleet is unsuited for transatlantic operations. Speaking at a gathering of aerospace executives in Washington, D.C., Jordan noted that while Southwest remains focused on its U.S. domestic network, the idea of international expansion highlights the limitations of its current single-fleet strategy.

Southwest has traditionally relied on Boeing 737s to keep costs low and operations simple. However, the aircraft lacks the range and payload capacity needed for longer routes such as those to Europe. Industry analysts say adding a new aircraft type—likely a long-range narrowbody or small widebody—would mark a major shift for the Dallas-based airline, which built its business model around fleet commonality and quick turnarounds.

The comments come as Southwest works to regain momentum following the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline has faced lackluster earnings and mounting pressure from investors to revamp its approach, including the possibility of premium seating, loyalty program enhancements, and now checked-bag fees after decades of touting “bags fly free.”

Jordan emphasized that no decision has been made on European flights but acknowledged that any transatlantic move would require a rethinking of both fleet and business model. For now, Southwest’s focus remains on stabilizing domestic operations and exploring incremental ways to drive revenue growth while maintaining its low-cost brand identity.

Also, Southwest Airlines is set to announce new international partners as it explores long-haul flights using its own aircraft. The airline has interline agreements with Icelandair and Taiwan’s China Airlines as it assesses the best aircraft for long-haul routes.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com