Exclusive-Southwest Airlines weighs Boeing 787 for long-haul international push, sources say

Southwest Airlines is considering the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as its first widebody jet for launching long-haul international flights, according to sources familiar with the carrier's fleet planning. However, no final decision has been made, as the choice will ultimately rest with the company's board. The airline has not publicly named an aircraft for long-haul flying, but Chief Financial Officer Tom Doxey previously mentioned long-haul international service as one of several options under consideration.

Southwest has also examined the feasibility of obtaining 787s through lessors or the secondary market. The deliberations would mark a significant shift for the airline, which has been focusing on enhancing customer experience through features like assigned seating and extra-legroom seats. A widebody fleet would enable Southwest to compete more directly with larger US rivals and strengthen its loyalty program and credit-card business.

CEO Bob Jordan has stated that the airline does not require a long-haul network as extensive as those of Delta, United, or American Airlines. Southwest currently operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet, but Airbus has been actively pursuing the airline as it considers its future fleet requirements. The 787 has emerged as the preferred option in the discussions, but aircraft availability may impact the timeline.

Boeing has indicated that the 787 is sold out through the end of the decade. The choice between a widebody aircraft and a narrow-body long-haul option has been under discussion for roughly three years, with aircraft availability potentially influencing the final decision.