Originally Posted by Flys135s

You can call it luck, but I call it smart leadership that has been typical throughout Southwest's history.

I wouldn't say Southwest is on equal ground with the legacy carriers either. The only way the legacies have been able to make money the last 10 years is on the backs of cheap regional airlines. Can't squeeze too much more out of that turnip unless they get more relief on scope from the unions. The legacies need to change their business model to maintain their growth in the future.

To say Southwest has been unable to expand is a bit of a distortion. Southwest has chosen not to expand until it completes the Air Tran merger (agreed this has been difficult) and stabilizes its infrastructure. Again, just smart business.

As for who the true low cost carriers are? Who cares. Southwest has its own unique brand, low fares and great customer service. All without the nickel and dime gimmicks other carriers have to do to turn a profit.

I've heard similar comments 20 years ago about how Southwest was no match for legacy carriers. But, now we see how well people can tell the future in this industry.

I bet you will still see incredible profits out of Southwest this year and the years to come. It's not the same airline as it was 20 years ago, but that's a good thing.