Southwest Airlines to Invest $2 Billion to ‘Transform’ In-Flight Experience

A Southwest 737 at LaGuardia Airport in N.Y.

Southwest Airlines announced a $2 billion plan to completely “transform” the carrier’s customer experience.

The massive investment is “designed to enhance and simplify customers’ journeys,” the airline said, and will include upgrading its Wi-Fi, the installation of new “latest technology” power ports at every seat, and new larger overhead bins that will offer easier access to carry-on baggage.  The improvements to in-flight Wi-Fi will bring up to ten times the current bandwidth into the cabin.

“You can never stop working to get better, and as our beloved Founder Herb famously said, ‘If you rest on your laurels, you’ll get a thorn in your butt!’,” said the airline’s CEO, Bob Jordan.  “We have a long and proud history of offering legendary customer service and warm Hospitality, and we have bold plans and significant investments to modernize and enhance the Southwest Experience.”

The airline will also introduce new in-flight entertainment options and a “wider selection of refreshments” in flight, including Bloody Marys and other cocktails.  The new entertainment options will include twice as many movies to stream, 3-D views for the flight track, and customized destination guides based on the flight’s itinerary.

Southwest is also adding a new fare category, “Wanna Get Away Plus,” which the airline said offers “added flexibility and value.”

(Photo: Accura Media Group)