Southwest CEO Discusses Lounges, Long-Haul Flights, and Premium Class
The idea of Southwest Airlines offering lounges has, up to this point, seemed like something crazy even to consider. However, given all the changes that Southwest Airlines (SWA) has announced and implemented, this idea no longer seems as far-fetched as it did in the past.
In a recent conversation with CNBC, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said the company is open to making even more changes to attract customers who might be flying with competitors. Including airport lounges, long-haul international flights, and premium class, which are all on the table, Jordan told CNBC.
Whatever customers need in 2025, 2030, we won't take any of that off the table. We'll do it the Southwest way, but we're not going to say 'We would never do that,'
Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC at an airport industry conference.
Nashville loves us, and we know we have Nashville customers that want lounges,
Jordan told CNBC. They want first class. They want to get to Europe and they're going to Europe.
Closing Thoughts
I know this is something customers would love to see. I also know that we receive a significant amount of search traffic from people specifically looking for "Southwest Airlines lounges" and have for many years. I will be watching this and remain very curious about how this would work. Would it be a premium credit card or purchasable membership? Would it be for only A-List Preferred? Would there be day passes? I have so many questions!