Southwest Airlines Adds 24 New Routes, Including International Destinations, and Launches Fare Sale
Southwest Airlines has recently introduced 24 new routes to its flight schedule, with some exciting international destinations included. The airline is also offering a limited-time fare sale, with one-way flights starting at just $39, including select holiday travel dates on certain routes. This expansion of services has delighted dedicated Southwest Airlines enthusiasts, as it signifies a significant increase in the airline's offerings.
With these new routes, Southwest's published schedule for 2024 will reach a historic high of 4,526 departures. This extensive network covers 121 airports across 11 countries.
Notable enhancements in the newly unveiled schedule include the addition of several flights departing from Burbank airport in Southern California. Burbank is gaining popularity as a convenient alternative to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for Eastside Angelenos. Southwest is now offering service to sought-after outdoor destinations like Bozeman, Montana, serving as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and Fresno, California, which is a key hub for travelers heading to Yosemite National Park.
Southwest's new international services will operate out of Orlando International Airport in Florida. These additions include one new flight to Cancun, Mexico, one to Costa Rica, and four to various Caribbean destinations, including the Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, and Turks and Caicos. It's worth noting that these international flights are subject to government approvals.
Bookings are now open for all the flights mentioned above. Additionally, Southwest is currently running a holiday fare sale for flights booked by November 2. The promotion covers travel from November 23, 2023, to May 22, 2024, with the exception of the new routes, which commence later. Some blackout dates apply to flights within the continental United States, with only minor exceptions. There are also certain restrictions on flights to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Hawai'i.
Starting in June 2024, Southwest will introduce new daily nonstop flights to various destinations, expanding their network further. Weekend service will also be available on some of these routes. Additionally, Southwest plans to reintroduce daily service on six existing routes in June 2024.
This expansion is part of Southwest's efforts to attract more loyal customers. The airline has recently made changes to its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, making it easier to earn A-List and A-List Preferred elite status. It will also allow Rapid Rewards members to pay for flights using a combination of cash and points, providing added flexibility to its passengers.
