Southwest further expansion?
 

I realize the paint is still drying on the Aitran deal, but I was wondering if there would be any thoughts out there regarding SW next going after either WestJet or Volaris - International expansion? Could it happen from a regulator standpoint? WestJet seems like a very nice operation - like SW.

I think that Canada has foreign ownership rules just like we do. I don't think that it can happen. Volaris just flat out won't happen.

Is volaris too small to make that kind of move?

Considering that capacity has been reduced at SWA by roughly 2% since this time last year, I think it'll be a while before there's any significant growth. However, SWA doesn't have a significant presence in the world's largest air travel market (NYC) and I just can't see them not going after that. So as far as buying someone else, I think JBA is much more likely (God help those pilots), or perhaps some slots/assets in the event that a USAir/AA tie-up leads to them having to divest of either of those.

Pretty sure the Mexican government wouldn't like one of the only money making Mexican airlines being bought out by a Gringo airline. Now, if SWA wants to pump millions into a money loser, like say, Delta and AeroMexico, for a minority share, then I'm sure they'd be fine with that.

Not likely, considering current events.

The post you replied to is 8 years old.

So you are saying the paint is dry on the AirTran deal?

Not just yet. Wait till the dust settles and SWA reassesses their financial situation. Other airlines will still be cheap (for a while). Put two and two together. Better yet, just look at their historical merger and acquisition practices.

Are you new to this forum?

The paint will NEVER be dry on the AirTran deal.