In a significant move aimed at reducing expenses, Southwest Airlines has announced plans to lay off approximately 15% of its corporate workforce. The decision, revealed on February 17, 2025, comes as the airline grapples with rising labor costs and a need to streamline operations to remain competitive in a challenging market landscape. CEO Bob Jordan stated, ‘We need to take decisive actions to ensure the long-term health of our company.’ The airline, which currently employs around 68,000 workers, is expected to cut about 10,200 positions as part of this initiative. This workforce reduction is part of a broader strategy focused on achieving annual savings of up to $1 billion by the end of 2025. As Southwest Airlines navigates through economic pressures, including inflation and increased competition from low-cost rivals, the company remains committed to providing quality service to its customers. Jordan emphasized that while these cuts are difficult, they are necessary to reallocate resources more effectively and invest in future growth opportunities. Separate from this layoff announcement, the Dallas-based airline had previously adjusted its flights and routes in response to changing travel demands, further highlighting its efforts to adapt to the post-pandemic travel environment.
Southwest Airlines Announces Major Job Cuts Amid Cost-Saving Strategy
