Bob Jordan, CEO of Southwest Airlines, told the Semafor World Economy Summit that Southwest is moving upmarket and is considering first‑class seats and airport lounges after adding bag fees and ending open seating.
Southwest is leasing airport terminal space in Austin, Texas, and Honolulu, Hawaii; View From The Wing reports the Austin lease describes a 40,000‑square‑foot crew lounge that appears large enough to serve passengers.
Jordan said the product changes aim to reduce customer defections, and he has previously said Southwest was seriously considering first‑class service.
The moves come as airlines face rising fuel costs amid the Middle East conflict and strong travel demand; Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, has proposed merging United with American Airlines, a plan that would draw antitrust scrutiny.
This article is based on reporting from Jalopnik.
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