Southwest Airlines, renowned for its no-frills approach and vibrant orange livery, has a unique distinction: it operates solely with Boeing 737 aircraft. Let’s delve into the fascinating reasons behind this strategic choice.
1. A Humble Beginning
Back in 1971, Southwest Airlines took flight with its very first Boeing 737—a modest 737-200. Over the years, the airline amassed a fleet of 64 of these reliable workhorses. But how did this love affair with the 737 begin?
2. Inspiration from the Pacific Southwest Airlines (PSA)
Southwest’s founders admired the success of Pacific Southwest Airlines (PSA), which operated the 737-200. PSA’s short-haul model resonated with them, and they aimed to replicate it. When PSA considered the 737-200 for its fleet, Southwest followed suit.
3. The Boeing Deal
At the time, Hawaiian carrier Aloha Airlines sought to offload some of its 81 Boeing 737-200s. However, Southwest declined the offer. Why? The inter-island flights in Hawaii would subject the planes to frequent maintenance due to their short-haul nature. Southwest wanted something fresh.
Enter Boeing. The aircraft manufacturer had several unpainted, brand-new 737-200s sitting idle after another airline’s expansion plans fell through. Co-founder Rollin King and Marion Lamar Muse (founder of Muse Air) negotiated with Boeing. Their ultimatum: a deal within the hour for the 737-200 series, or they’d turn to Douglas Aircraft Company’s DC-9. Boeing accepted, and Southwest Airlines secured three 737-200s with an option for a fourth.
4. Steadfast Loyalty
Since those humble beginnings, Southwest has expanded its fleet to include various 737 models: -300s, -500s, -700s, -800s, and even the MAX 8. Yet, it never strayed far from its 737 roots. For a brief period between 1979 and 1987, Southwest leased and operated around seven Boeing 727s, but it soon returned to its beloved 737s.
5. Perks of Monogamy
Why does Southwest remain devoted to the Boeing 737? Here are the perks:
- Simplicity: Operating a single aircraft type streamlines systems, scheduling, training, ground equipment, maintenance, and provisioning.
- Potential Discounts: Bulk orders of a single model can lead to cost savings.
- Consistent Training: Staff only need to be trained on one type of aircraft.
6. The Future
Despite occasional rumors of Airbus’s consideration during the MAX grounding, Southwest Airlines stands firm in its loyalty to Boeing. As long as the 737 continues to serve them well, there’s no need to change course.
In the skies, Southwest’s orange-clad fleet remains a testament to the power of focus and efficiency. So next time you board a Southwest flight, remember: it’s all about the Boeing 737—accept no substitutes!
