Southwest Airlines may soon offer red-eye flights, according to CEO Bob Jordan, though certain logistical challenges remain. Red-eye flights could be beneficial for passengers who want to maximize their time at home and at their destination. Southwest Airlines is currently the only US airline to provide two free checked bags per booking. Additionally, the airline does not assign seats; instead, passengers board flights based on their check-in order.
Jordan stated, “It’s a logical evolution for us. We have the aircraft; it’s a great way to use an asset that you already have and use it more productively, which means more hours in the day. So, we will be doing red-eyes.” Red-eye flights, which typically traverse domestic or international time zones, are generally popular for passengers. While Southwest has not specified a timeline or destinations for the potential red-eye routes, the airline’s operations from Phoenix to Honolulu could be potential candidates.
Southwest Airlines is also considering expanding its operations at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), with the Wright Amendment set to expire in 2025. The low-cost carrier, which currently operates solely out of Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL), has held preliminary discussions about the possibility of flying out of DFW. With Southwest’s growing international schedule and ambitions, it seems reasonable for the carrier to consider increasing its presence at DFW. However, any decisions on flights from DFW are not expected to be made until at least 2024.
