Forums > General > General Forum

Scott

Oct 29, 2010, 5:35 AM

Post #1 of 1 (2245 views)

Shortcut

Southwest/Volaris

Can't Post | Private Reply

Southwest To Offer Mexico Service Through Volaris

DOW JONES NEWSWIRES

Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV) detailed a plan to start a new effort allowing its customers to book international flights with Mexico's Volaris, that country's second-leading carrier, connecting three California airports and five Mexican destinations.

The discount company announced plans in 2008 to code-share with the Mexican carrier after upgrading its computer system. It had initially seen starting the program early this year. Thursday's announcement is short of a full code-share system, under which carriers sell tickets on one another's flights.

The plan comes as Southwest is in the midst of acquiring AirTran Holdings Inc. (AAI) for about $1.41 billion, which would give the carrier its first international routes. Meanwhile, airlines are enjoying a rebound in demand as consumers and business travelers return to the sky.

The plan would allow customers to fly to Cancun, Guadalajara, Morelia, Toluca-Mexico City and Zacatecas. Flights would connect through Los Angeles International Airport, Oakland International, and San Jose International.

Customers are set to be able to book service starting on Nov. 12 for travel starting Dec. 1.

Southwest shares were down 7 cents at $13.69 in recent trading. The stock has gained about 20% this year.

-By Matt Jarzemsky, Dow Jones Newswires; 212-416-2240; matthew.jarzemsky@dowjones.com
A politician thinks of the next election. A statesman, of the next generation.
- James Freeman Clarke