Funviralpark Michael McCoy | Reuters
Southwest Airlines cut another 2,500 flights on Wednesday as frustrated customers scramble to find seats on other airlines.
The Dallas-based airline’s cut reached 60% of its schedule, with another day of disruption despite improved weather conditions and other airline operations.
Airlines have canceled thousands of flights since last week when harsh winter weather disrupted holiday travel across the United States, but the Southwest’s unusual disruption is under scrutiny from the Biden administration and lawmakers. They blame their performance on their internal systems.
To help stranded travelers, delta airlines on Wednesday said it had “capped fares in all markets operated by Southwest” and that fares would be in effect through Saturday. american airlines United Airlines said it has capped fares in “cities severely impacted by cancellations,” while United said it has capped fares in “certain cities.”
The airline did not provide details of the cap. The move comes after Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg urged other airlines to limit fares.
Southwest Airlines said it will reimburse travelers for “reasonable” hotel, meal and other travel expenses if customers provide receipts. Earlier this week, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan told employees that the airline will only fly about a third of its schedule for several days to reset operations.
Southwest’s stock has outperformed its competitors for the second straight day.
The lack of available seats on other airlines during the busy holiday season increased the frustration of travelers trying to find a home.
Airlines routinely limit last-minute fares to match the generally expensive and often limited seating to allow travelers to evacuate during emergencies like hurricanes.
