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Southwest Airlines honors founder Herb Kelleher at Dallas Love Field

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Southwest Airlines honors founder Herb Kelleher at Dallas Love Field
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Webp herb kelleher
Herb Kelleher co-founded of Southwest Airlines | Official Website

Southwest Airlines, a prominent low-cost carrier in the United States, has long been associated with its founder Herb Kelleher. His leadership played a significant role in shaping the airline and establishing its strong connection to Dallas Love Field. The airline began as an idea to provide affordable air travel between Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Founded in 1967, Southwest took off from Dallas Love Field Airport in 1971.

Herb Kelleher co-founded the airline with Rollin King and initially served as legal counsel. Their concept was famously sketched on a cocktail napkin, symbolizing Southwest's informal spirit and audacious start. The airline's business model focused on simple fares, fast turnarounds, and no assigned seating. By operating initially within Texas only, Southwest avoided federal regulation.

Kelleher was known for his humor and unconventional leadership style. He prioritized employees over time and believed that treating employees well would lead to customer satisfaction and shareholder happiness. "Your employees come first," he said to Forbes. This philosophy contributed significantly to Southwest's success.

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Under Kelleher's guidance, Southwest expanded across the US by the mid-1980s and became the largest domestic airline by passengers carried by 2003. Today, it operates over 700 aircraft serving more than 100 destinations while maintaining its core values rooted in Kelleher's vision.

Dallas Love Field remains integral to Southwest’s operations. Originally an Army airfield commissioned in 1917, it transitioned to civilian use in the 1920s. When other airlines moved to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in 1974, Southwest chose to stay at Love Field.

In tribute to Kelleher, Southwest introduced a special Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft named “The Herbert D. Kelleher” retrojet in 2022. It features classic livery colors from the airline’s early days and serves as a reminder of Kelleher’s enduring influence.

Southwest continues its unique approach amidst industry competition while maintaining strong ties with Dallas Love Field through ongoing modernization projects.

Organizations Included in this History
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