Southwest Airlines Material Specialists Approve New Contract

Southwest Airlines Co. has announced that its Material Specialists, represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement. This agreement, which was approved ahead of schedule, covers over 480 Southwest employees and will remain in effect until April 2026.

The Material Specialists play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of Southwest’s fleet and ground equipment by providing the necessary tools and parts for maintenance. Recognizing their invaluable contribution, Adam Carlisle, Vice President Labor Relations at Southwest Airlines, expressed his gratitude to both parties for delivering this contract well in advance of the amendable date.

Southwest Airlines, known for its friendly and reliable service, operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines. With a presence in 121 airports across 11 countries, Southwest has become the leading airline for nonstop flights within the United States. The company’s employee-first corporate culture has resulted in an impressive track record of no involuntary furloughs or layoffs throughout its history.

With a workforce of over 71,000 dedicated individuals, Southwest Airlines prides itself on delivering unparalleled hospitality to its more than 126 million customers in 2022. This commitment to exceptional service has contributed to Southwest’s industry-leading prosperity and 47 consecutive years of profitability for its shareholders.

Southwest Airlines is not only focused on its business success but also on making a positive impact on communities worldwide. The company aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and has set near-term targets and a four-pillar strategy to reach its environmental goals.

Southwest Airlines continues to demonstrate its commitment to its employees and their well-being by reaching fair agreements with various union-represented workgroups. The recent ratification of the new collective bargaining agreement with the Material Specialists further strengthens the airline’s dedication to fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

For more information about Southwest Airlines and its initiatives, visit Southwest.com/citizenship.