lOMoARcPSD|11700591
Southwest Airlines Case Analysis
Mgmt & Organizational Behavior (American University (USA))
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, lOMoARcPSD|11700591
Professor Kohn
MGMT-353
Southwest Airlines Case Analysis
What Does it Take to Make Money in the Business?
To be successful in the airline industry, it boils down to one thing: efficiency. The best airlines
are consistently on time, warrant few complaints from customers, and make sure luggage arrives
back safely in the hands of the flyer it belongs to. Also, airlines generally try to get the most
money from their customers. They use computers and algorithms to calculate ticket prices and
when customers are willing to pay the most money for a ticket. They offer “frill” and options for
customers to spend more money. For example, there is often the option to pay extra to board the
flight first. Food is commonly served onboard. And most airlines have different sections on the
airplane like coach, business class, and first class where certain amenities are offered. But
Southwest does not do any of this. So how do they find success?
What Makes Southwest Airlines a Success?
Strategy & Execution
● Underutilized airports
● Point-to-point routes
● Punctual departures & short ground time for flights
● One model airplane fleet
● No frill
Downloaded by Answerdone ()
Southwest Airlines Case Analysis
Mgmt & Organizational Behavior (American University (USA))
StuDocu is not sponsored or endorsed by any college or university
Downloaded by Answerdone ()
, lOMoARcPSD|11700591
Professor Kohn
MGMT-353
Southwest Airlines Case Analysis
What Does it Take to Make Money in the Business?
To be successful in the airline industry, it boils down to one thing: efficiency. The best airlines
are consistently on time, warrant few complaints from customers, and make sure luggage arrives
back safely in the hands of the flyer it belongs to. Also, airlines generally try to get the most
money from their customers. They use computers and algorithms to calculate ticket prices and
when customers are willing to pay the most money for a ticket. They offer “frill” and options for
customers to spend more money. For example, there is often the option to pay extra to board the
flight first. Food is commonly served onboard. And most airlines have different sections on the
airplane like coach, business class, and first class where certain amenities are offered. But
Southwest does not do any of this. So how do they find success?
What Makes Southwest Airlines a Success?
Strategy & Execution
● Underutilized airports
● Point-to-point routes
● Punctual departures & short ground time for flights
● One model airplane fleet
● No frill
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