Southwest Airlines Cuts 15% of Workforce Amidst Profit Pressure
Southwest Airlines announced its first-ever major layoff, eliminating 1,750 corporate jobs—15% of its corporate workforce—to streamline operations and cut costs. The cuts, primarily affecting corporate overhead and leadership roles, are projected to save the airline approximately $210 million in 2024 and $300 million in 2026. This restructuring aims to create a more efficient and agile organization, responding to pressures to improve profitability and stock performance. The decision follows previous efforts to reduce staffing through buyouts and leaves of absence.
John Q. Hosedrinker