Southwest Airlines is making adjustments to its operations for 2024 due to ongoing challenges with Boeing. The company is cutting capacity, re-optimizing flight schedules, and pausing hiring as a result of changes in Boeing’s delivery schedule.
Boeing informed Southwest that it will receive fewer Max 8s this year than previously anticipated, with the total number expected to be lower than initially planned. Southwest is also not expecting the certification of the smaller Max 7 variants by the FAA this year.
As a consequence of the reduced capacity, Southwest has halted hiring for various positions, including pilots and flight attendants. The company anticipates a decrease in headcount and is projecting a net loss in the first quarter of the fiscal year, but aims to return to profitability by the end of the year.
This is not the first time a major U.S. carrier has been affected by issues with Boeing, as the company is still recovering from incidents involving its aircraft operated by other airlines.
Last week, United Airlines announced a temporary pause in pilot hiring due to similar delays and challenges with Boeing. The FAA has increased oversight of Boeing and its suppliers, halting production expansion of the Max in response to safety concerns.
Overall, the aviation industry is facing changes and challenges in 2024 that are impacting both airlines and aircraft manufacturers. Southwest Airlines, along with other carriers, is adapting to these changes to ensure safe and efficient operations in the future.
Read More Business-news/” target=”_blank”>Business News
