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Southwest Airlines has played a significant role in shaping the North American air travel market through its distinct operational model. Known for its point-to-point network and low-cost approach, the airline has historically set itself apart from legacy carriers by focusing on affordability and convenience, especially for city pairs lacking nonstop service.
Founded in 1967 as Air Southwest, the company began operating exclusively within Texas before expanding across the United States following airline deregulation in 1979. Its early strategy involved high-frequency, short-haul flights using a single aircraft type—the Boeing 737—which simplified operations and reduced costs. This approach allowed Southwest to become one of the largest and most influential low-cost airlines globally.
Southwest's growth included expanding to over 100 destinations across 42 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and international markets in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. The carrier’s network operates with rolling hubs rather than traditional hub-and-spoke systems, keeping aircraft moving throughout the day without relying on a central megahub.
