Key Announcement:
Southwest Airlines (LUV) will open a new crew base at Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) in March 2026, creating more than 2,000 new jobs to support its expanding operations in Central Texas.

Operational Details:

• Initial Staffing (March 2026): Approximately 335 pilots and 650 flight attendants.
• Full Staffing Target (Mid-2027): Reaching the full complement of 2,000 employees, primarily consisting of captains, first officers, flight attendants, base leadership, and support staff.
• Training Facility: As part of its broader business transformation, Southwest will also establish a recurring training facility for flight attendants at the Austin base.

Network Expansion:
Alongside the new base, Southwest will launch:

• New Route: Daily service between Austin and Cincinnati, Ohio, starting in June 2026.
• Expanded Seasonal Service: Increased flights to destinations like Pensacola, Florida.

Community Partnership:
In collaboration with the City of Austin, Southwest will:

• Strengthen its partnership with Austin Workforce Solutions.
• Collaborate with the Austin Infrastructure Academy.
• Expand its youth internship program with AUS.
• Utilize the airport's AUS Career Center as a primary hub for connecting local candidates to job opportunities.

Strategic Significance:
The new base underscores Southwest's commitment to growth in the rapidly expanding Central Texas market. It enhances operational efficiency, reduces costs associated with overnighting crews, and solidifies Austin as a key focus city in the airline's network. The move is part of Southwest's ongoing business transformation aimed at improving reliability and supporting future expansion.