Southwest Airlines Analysis

Case 20: Southwest Airlines

Amanda Buchanan

MGMT499-54
16 April 2012

Table of Contents

Summary………………………………………………………………………….4
Company Analysis………………………………………………………………..4
Issues Identified…………………………………………………………………..10
Recommendations…………………………………………………………………10
Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………11
References………………………………………………………………………….12
Appendix……………………………………………………………………………13

Abstract
Founded in 1966 by Rollin King, Southwest did not actually leave the ground until June of 1971 due to constant battles in court fighting people and organizations that did not want competition in the airline industry.   Once Southwest took flight it began immediately to bring different values to the industry and start new processes that other airlines wanted to copy.   It always looks for the most innovative way to run the airline without sacrificing passenger comfort.   Southwest doesn’t believe in first-class but puts all of its customers in the same class.   It runs non-stop flights from one location to another to save time and money.   Some responsibilities like baggage claim are put into the customer’s responsibility while cleaning the inside of the plane is put into the responsibility of the flight attendants.   Why?   In order to save time and money so the airline can pass it down to the passengers.   Although a passenger doesn’t get a certain section for themselves that says, “I paid more than you”, they get a much cheaper rate.   Southwest is made for the working class and because of its efforts to reach this public; it has made a profit every year since opening its doors.   This paper will analyze the history and decisions of this company and touch on some recommendations that will bring further success to Southwest Airlines in future business.

Summary
“We operate with a Warrior Spirit, a Servant’s Heart, and a Fun-LUVing Attitude.”   (Gary C. Kelly, CEO)
Since its founding in 1966, the company is constantly researching its success and failures in order... [continues]

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