Financial PerformanceSouthwest Airlines has fallen from one of the most profitable large US carriers to one of the lowest, with fresh perspectives on strategic direction and network design potentially impacting relative margins.
Operational ChallengesBoeing delivery delays of 737 MAX aircraft have materially challenged unit cost outcomes at Southwest as the company added resources in advance of expected deliveries that did not materialize.
Regulatory IssuesThe FAA launched a safety audit of Southwest Airlines following a series of recent incidents, including multiple low-altitude events.