Southwest Airlines is a major American airline known for its low-cost, customer-centric approach to air travel. Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Southwest operates a vast domestic network with flights to over 100 destinations across the United States, as well as some international locations in Central America and the Caribbean. The airline is recognized for its unique business model, which focuses on efficient, point-to-point operations rather than a hub-and-spoke system, enabling it to offer frequent flights at competitive prices.
Southwest is also famous for its distinctive policies, including no assigned seating, a free checked baggage policy for two bags per passenger, and a simplified fare structure that avoids hidden fees. Known for friendly service, the airline’s workforce culture prioritizes employee satisfaction, translating to high customer service ratings. Southwest has consistently been an industry leader in profitability, customer loyalty, and operational efficiency, largely attributed to its streamlined operations and cost-effective strategies. The airline’s mission is to offer "low fares, no hidden fees, and a comfortable, safe flying experience," making air travel accessible for a wide range of customers.