I wouldn't be that surprised if SWA opened a base.

But from their perspective, as a TX airline, they'd probably rather minimize roots in a high tax (for employers) state like CA.

And they don't own SAN, it's very much in play between SW and AS. SW is slightly ahead in the race, and the new terminal is a huge deal for them.

Their new business model might give them an advantage but basically to me it looks like they're trying to become AS In doing so they've alienated some of their loyal customers.