Southwest Airlines Considers International Expansion 

Key Points

• Southwest Airlines is in early talks with its unions about expanding international routes beyond its current network.
• The carrier has recently updated its business model by adding premium seats, baggage fees, OTA partnerships, and vacation packages.
• Southwest's international growth is partly hindered by aircraft limitations and certification delays for new Boeing 737 Max models.

Summary

Southwest Airlines is exploring the possibility of expanding its international route network and has begun discussions with pilot and flight attendant unions regarding necessary contract changes. This move is part of a broader shift in its business model, which now includes premium seating, baggage fees, online travel agency partnerships, and its own vacation packages. However, efforts to grow internationally are challenged by aircraft limitations and delays in the certification of new Boeing 737 Max models.