These two airports serve as Southwest’s satellite bases for flight attendants. The closure has been discussed with the union to possibly delay it by about a month to July 1, giving affected crew members more time to adjust.
According to Southwest, approximately 280 flight attendants will be affected and offered transfers to one of the twelve main bases. CNBC quoted a statement from the airline: “This change will ultimately help strengthen our Crew network and support a more reliable operation for our Employees and Customers. ”
Crew reduction at other bases
In January, Southwest Airlines also revealed reductions at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Denver International Airport (DEN). This move was part of a larger reorganization effort aimed at maximizing the revenue-generating potential of its fleet. Employees were expected to transfer to other bases with no reductions in force occurring.
These changes were attributed to network realignment before introducing red- eye flights and general schedule adjustments. An Associated Press report last year quoted an official saying, “demand for Atlanta doesn’t support our level of flying.” A memo from Atlanta-based official Tiffany Laurent noted that while planners try everything possible before making hard decisions, this change was necessary for profitability.
The decision faced criticism from the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association: “It is simply amazing that the airline with the strongest network in the history of our industry is now retreating in a major market because this management group has failed to evolve and innovate. ”
Cost-cutting moves
Southwest is currently engaged in major cost optimization efforts to improve its financial health. In February, it announced large-scale layoffs for the first time in history, cutting around1 ,750 corporate and leadership positions by15 % by end-Q22025 .
The company estimated partial-year savings for2025 at approximately $210 million with full-year savings for2026 expected around$300 million . Bob Jordan , President & CEO said,” Changing how we work isan essential partof becominga more agile Company… We are buildinga leaner organizationwith increased clarity regarding whatis most important…”
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