Southwest dismisses widebody rumours but leaves door open on 737 Max 10

Southwest Airlines has definitively refuted reports suggesting an imminent order for its initial widebody aircraft, dismissing the claims as lacking credibility. Executives stated that there is currently “no credibility” to recent reports concerning a potential large aircraft purchase. However, Southwest acknowledged that it would be “significantly easier” to incorporate a larger Boeing 737 MAX variant into their fleet if they chose to proceed. The airline’s decision regarding a wider body strategy hinges primarily on pilot contract negotiations, presenting an ‘opportunity’ to amend those agreements. Despite this openness, Southwest maintains no firm plans are in place at present and continues to operate solely with its existing 737 family of aircraft.