Southwest Airlines Is Considering Larger 737-800 Aircraft

The Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA) met with representatives of Southwest's management Wednesday regarding their intent to convert current Boeing 737-700 aircraft orders to the larger 737-800s. This meeting continues ongoing productive talks and collaboration between Southwest Airlines and its pilots regarding the potential acquisition of the 737-800.

"One of the primary concerns for our pilots is job security and the issues associated with adding aircraft with increased capacity while the Company is actively retiring planes with less capacity," said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, SWAPA President. "We share the Company's enthusiasm for the added revenue this aircraft can provide. However, we must address the aircraft's effects on pilot productivity."

SWAPA continues to seek viable solutions which recognize both the risks and rewards presented by the company's plans, and remains focused on working with the Company to realize our collective goals. "We look forward to continued meetings with the Company in the days ahead," continued Kuwitzky. "We have made progress thus far and we are encouraged that we will complete a deal in the near term that is beneficial to both Southwest Airlines and its pilots."

FMI: www.swapa.org, www.southwest.com