It’s no wonder why Southwest leads the airline industry in profits year in and year out. It sets itself apart from other airlines by focusing on the quality of service, not the number of flights, which keeps loyal customers coming back and attracting new ones in the process. Southwest has also been widely successful for its public relations efforts. Its Web site offers daily blogs by CEO Gary Kelly, photos and videos depicting Southwest’s customer service, and interactive media for customers to engage with the company.
Just recently, Southwest unveiled its newest “salute jet”, Florida One. The aircraft is among 14 specialty jets that uniquely show how Southwest cares about its customers. When in a dull economy where the airline industry is struggling to gain profits, most airlines would laugh at the idea of spending $60 million on a new jet with the Florida flag painted on the side. But as a result of Southwest’s continued successes, the airline gives a nod to the people who helped make it happen by doing gestures such as these. Although all people want in an airline is a cheap fare and an on-time flight, it will nevertheless turn heads when people see this jet rolling down the tarmac.
