Originally Posted by
spooldup
Absolutely ZERO airlines have followed SWA's model for their success. Not even SWA follows it anymore.
It amazes me how management anywhere is overlooking the biggest thing, and that is happy customers and employees.
Um, yes they are. The business model is customer service w/o a whole bunch of extra fees. That's what it was in the 70s and still today. In fact, when all other airlines charged for bags and drinks, they dont.
The ticket prices are higher but that's all part of the model. It's impossible to STAY a ULCC and provide good customer service (at least in the US) as labor groups will continually demand greater wages (SWA was no different). But once your customer base is constructed, they tend to stay given the loyalty programs, credit card points systems, etc.
The business model is provide a good product cheap, increase prices over time but keep the product good.
Again, it's not hard