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Southwest Airlines would need different aircraft if launching flights to Europe, CEO says

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on September 9, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 22, 2026

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Southwest Airlines would need different aircraft if launching flights to Europe, CEO says
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WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines would need different aircraft if it were to launch flights to Europe, CEO Bob Jordan told a Washington D.C. gathering of aerospace

Southwest Airlines Requires New Aircraft for Potential European Flights

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines would need different aircraft if it were to launch flights to Europe, CEO Bob Jordan told a Washington D.C. gathering of aerospace executives on Tuesday.

Southwest, which operates mostly domestic flights with a fleet of Boeing 737 jets, has been struggling to find its footing after the COVID pandemic. Its lackluster earnings have fueled pressure to revamp its business model.    It has begun charging customers for checked bags, ending a free policy. It has also rolled out a new basic-economy fare.  

(Doyinsola Oladipo and Allison Lampert in Washington DC and Rajesh Kumar Singh in Chicago; Editing by Chris Reese)

Key Takeaways

  • Southwest Airlines may need new aircraft for European flights.
  • CEO Bob Jordan discussed potential expansion in Washington D.C.
  • Current fleet of Boeing 737 jets is mostly for domestic flights.
  • Southwest is adjusting its business model post-COVID.
  • The airline has introduced new fare options and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Southwest Airlines' CEO say about flights to Europe?
CEO Bob Jordan stated that Southwest Airlines would need different aircraft if it were to launch flights to Europe.
What type of aircraft does Southwest Airlines currently operate?
Southwest Airlines primarily operates a fleet of Boeing 737 jets.
What challenges is Southwest Airlines facing after the COVID pandemic?
The airline has been struggling to find its footing and has faced lackluster earnings, which have increased pressure to revamp its operations.

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