Southwest Airlines cuts workforce by 1,750 positions

Southwest Airlines has announced a workforce reduction of approximately 1,750 jobs as part of a broader effort to create a leaner and more agile organisation. The cuts, which primarily impact corporate overhead and leadership positions, account for around 15% of corporate roles, including senior leadership and director-level positions. As part of this restructuring, eleven senior leadership roles at the vice president level and above will also be eliminated. The reductions are expected to be substantially complete by the end of the second quarter of 2025.

Bob Jordan, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, acknowledged the difficult nature of the decision, stating: “This decision is unprecedented in our 53-year history and change requires that we make difficult decisions. We are at a pivotal moment as we transform Southwest Airlines into a leaner, faster and more agile organisation. I arrived at this decision thoughtfully and carefully, knowing how hard it will be to say goodbye to colleagues who have been a significant part of our Southwest culture and accomplishments. I’m grateful to all Southwest employees who have shared in our legendary history and to those that will guide us into the next era of Southwest Airlines.”

The airline expects the workforce reduction to result in significant cost savings, estimating approximately US$210 million in partial-year savings for 2025 and US$300 in annual savings from 2026 onwards. However, the restructuring will incur an expected one-time charge of between US$60 million and US$80 million in the first quarter of 2025, primarily related to severance payments and post-employment benefits. The final costs will vary depending on individual employee elections during the workforce reduction process.

Southwest Airlines will continue to evaluate and implement additional cost-saving measures throughout 2025, aiming to enhance operational efficiency while maintaining its commitment to customer service and long-term growth.