The Factors That Led To Southwest Airlines' Unsurvivability At Chicago & Houston's Largest Airports

Southwest Airlines’ operations at two major airports – O’Hare International Airport in Chicago and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (formerly Harry Hines Field) in Houston – have ceased following a period of significant disruption. The airline previously controlled approximately 1.9 percent of the market share at O’Hare and maintained an existing presence at Midway Airport. A similar situation unfolded in Houston, resulting in the complete shutdown of Southwest’s operations there as well. These closures represent a substantial reduction in Southwest's network footprint. This strategic shift underscores the challenges faced by the carrier during recent operational difficulties.