Southwest Airlines has made a significant change by allowing its ticket prices to appear on Google Flights, along with other airlines. This move simplifies price comparison for travelers, especially in Southwest cities, where users previously had to check multiple websites for each trip. The change, first reported by Thrifty Traveler, is part of a pilot program, and reservations still need to be made through the airline’s website.
Southwest confirmed that Google Flights users can now search for fares and compare different options, then click directly to Southwest’s website to book their selected itinerary. The airline did not specify how long the pilot program would last, nor did they mention if fares would eventually appear on other third-party booking platforms.
Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan mentioned during a recent earnings call the possibility of changes to the airline’s business model, including potentially moving away from its open seating model. This suggests that Southwest may start assigning seats in the future, although no timeline was provided.
Overall, this new partnership between Southwest Airlines and Google Flights will make it easier for travelers to compare fares and book flights, potentially leading to a more streamlined booking process in the future. The airline’s willingness to explore changes to its business model also shows a commitment to evolving with the needs and preferences of its customers.
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https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2024/05/22/southwest-airlines-google-flights/73804686007/