Southwest Airlines

S&P Global Ratings has raised the outlook for Southwest Airlines from “negative” to “stable” and left the issuer rating at BBB. The agency cites improved earnings growth, successful revenue and cost initiatives (including bag fees and seat reservations) and expected stronger credit metrics through 2027, including an FFO-to-debt ratio sustainably above 70% and a debt-to-EBITDA ratio around 1x. S&P expects 16–18% revenue growth in 2026, rising fuel costs, positive free operating cash flow in 2026–2027, and highlights a strong liquidity position of about $3.8 billion in cash plus an unused credit line. » More on de.investing.com

Southwest Airlines has appointed Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, and Varun Krishna, CEO of Rocket Companies, to the board of directors with immediate effect. Both bring leadership experience in customer-focused, publicly traded companies as well as expertise in finance, operations, digital innovation and product strategy. The board expects the new appointments to strengthen the execution of Southwest’s strategic priorities, particularly in technology and customer loyalty. » More on de.investing.com

Southwest Airlines has announced the "Business Priority" product for its corporate travel program Southwest Business, which from early 2027 will offer qualified corporate contract customers priority rebooking, waitlist priority and priority boarding. At the same time the airline is introducing New Distribution Capability (NDC) features and is developing its own API with a direct-connect option to be available by the end of 2026. Southwest also plans to provide content via Amadeus Altéa NDC (available 2027) and is generally expanding product features such as assigned seats, extra legroom, power outlets, Starlink Wi‑Fi, larger overhead bins and international partnerships. » More on de.investing.com