Southwest Airlines Announces Layoffs and Workforce Reshuffling at Four Major Airports
The airline's unprecedented restructuring aims to save $210 million in 2025 by cutting jobs and relocating staff while introducing new revenue strategies.
- Southwest Airlines is cutting jobs and relocating 120 ground operations and frontline workers at four U.S. airports, including San Jose Mineta International Airport.
- The layoffs, set to begin in June 2025, are part of broader cost-cutting efforts to save $210 million this year and $300 million by 2026.
- CEO Bob Jordan described the decision as 'unprecedented' in the company's 53-year history, emphasizing the need for a leaner and more agile organization.
- Recent policy changes include the introduction of assigned seating, premium options, and a new fee for checked bags on flights booked after May 28, 2025.
- Southwest's stock has declined nearly 10% in 2025, reflecting investor concerns over the airline's transformation plan and financial challenges.