Founded in 1971 as Air Southwest, the airline quickly changed it's name to Southwest Airlines and began offering commercial flights in June 1971. In 1982, Southwest began offering flights outside of Texas, whereas all previous flights had been within state. Currently offering more than 3300 flights a day, Southwest is among the busiest airlines in the world and carries more passengers every year than any other. Currently, 15 domestic states have no Southwest service as the company cannot offer cost effective flights to congested airports. Southwest currently services international destinations only through code shares and partnerships with other airlines. While most airlines have a hub city, Southwest works on a point-to-point basis and is famous for quick turnaround times. Focus centers including Dallas Love Field and Los Angeles International are served by regular flights. The frequent flyer program is known as Rapid Rewards.
Airline Information Southwest Airlines
- Founded: 1971
- Location: Dallas, Texas
- Owner(s): Publicly Owned
- Fleet Size: 547
- Number of Destinations: 68
- Destinations: Approximately 60 domestic destinations in the whole USA
- Average Aircraft Age: 14.0 years#
- Type of Aircraft: Boeing 737-700 / Boeing 737-300 / Boeing 737-500
- Frequent Flyer Program: Rapid Rewards
- Features: Operates about 3300 departures per day (According to the airline's own statement)
Note: Information updated June 2010. Please visit the airline's official website for up to date information.