Southwest Airlines weighs Boeing 787 for long-haul international push, sources say
LUV•Southwest Airlines is leaning toward Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner as its first widebody aircraft for a possible long-haul international launch, people familiar with its fleet planning said. The airline has discussed a roughly three-year timeline and a fleet of dozens of 787s, but has made no final aircraft decision.
1. 787 under consideration
Southwest is leaning toward Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner as its first widebody aircraft as it considers launching long-haul international flights, three people familiar with its fleet planning said. No final aircraft decision has been made, and the choice would ultimately rest with the airline’s board. One person said Southwest has contemplated a fleet of dozens of 787s.
2. Availability and timing
The long-haul plan has been discussed on a roughly three-year timetable, one person said. Boeing has said the 787 is sold out through the end of the decade, and Southwest has examined obtaining aircraft through lessors or the secondary market to potentially accelerate a launch.
3. New operational requirements
Southwest currently operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet. Adding a 787 could require new maintenance and training programs, regulatory approvals and union negotiations over pay and work rules. People familiar with the discussions said Airbus has pitched aircraft including the A321XLR and A330neo, but the 787 has appeared to hold the stronger position.
