Southwest Airlines Embarks on a Monumental Expansion in Phoenix

In a groundbreaking move, Southwest Airlines has unveiled the completion of its ambitious $100 million project at Phoenix Sky Harbor, significantly enhancing its technical operations capacity. This expansive endeavor has almost doubled the size of the airline's maintenance hangar, introducing a state-of-the-art 90,000-square foot extension. This addition incorporates three new aircraft bays, enabling Southwest to accommodate maintenance work on up to five aircraft concurrently. The project not only supports the nearly 500 Southwest® Technical Operations Employees at Sky Harbor but also modernizes the workspace, infusing it with the latest tools and processes.

The initiative extends beyond the hangar expansion, marking a significant upgrade for the airline's Provisioning and Ground Support Equipment Maintenance Teams with a larger facility that began operations in 2020. Andrew Watterson, Chief Operating Officer at Southwest Airlines, highlighted the project's alignment with the airline's safety-first ethos and its commitment to renewing the fleet for the benefit of the network and the Phoenix community. Watterson emphasized the investment in Southwest's Arizona-based workforce, equipping them with modernized spaces and the latest in aviation technology as a cornerstone for the airline's future in Phoenix.

Adding to its impressive feats, the expanded hangar has achieved the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification, showcasing Southwest's dedication to sustainable practices. The design features recycled building materials, a high-reflectance roof to minimize heat island effects, and environmentally friendly product selections from manufacturers with proven environmental performance records.

This expansion is a testament to Southwest's long-standing relationship with Phoenix, dating back to its establishment of a Technical Operations base at Sky Harbor in 1986 and the inauguration of a new maintenance hangar in 1993 to accommodate growth. The Phoenix team plays a pivotal role in accepting new aircraft deliveries and maintaining the fleet as part of Southwest's comprehensive maintenance programs.

Southwest's expansion in Phoenix is part of a larger strategy that includes operational hangar facilities across the United States and the construction of a new facility at Baltimore/Washington International Airport, set to open in 2025. This growth narrative is intertwined with Southwest's deep-rooted partnership with the Phoenix community, underscored by the airline's increase to 220 daily departures and its substantial local workforce engagement in community service.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego expressed gratitude towards Southwest for its investment and community engagement, highlighting the airline's significant contribution to making Phoenix a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. The expansion at Sky Harbor not only elevates Southwest's operational capabilities but also reinforces its commitment to community, sustainability, and innovation, paving the way for future successes in the airline industry and beyond.