Southwest Airlines Co., commonly known as Southwest, is a leading American low-cost airline headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Founded in 1967, the airline has grown to become a major player in the aviation industry, primarily serving domestic routes across the United States, with a focus on providing affordable travel options.
Renowned for its unique business model, Southwest operates a point-to-point transit system, which allows for greater flexibility and efficiency. The airline's core services include scheduled passenger flights, with a commitment to no hidden fees and a generous baggage policy, setting it apart from competitors.
With a strong market position, Southwest has consistently ranked among the top airlines for customer satisfaction and operational performance, making it a preferred choice for millions of travellers each year.
+16 vs industry average
Southwest’s score of 33 is higher than 57% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Air Transport is among the most carbon-intensive industries
Industry performance
The Air Transport industry has reduced its overall emissions by 32% since 2019
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2027
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Southwest's reported carbon emissions
Southwest Airlines' latest emissions data from 2024 shows a total of approximately 25.6 billion kg CO2e. This includes Scope 1 emissions of about 21.1 billion kg CO2e and Scope 2 emissions (market-based) of approximately 16.7 million kg CO2e. Scope 3 emissions for 2024 amounted to roughly 4.6 billion kg CO2e, with fuel and energy-related activities being a significant contributor at approximately 4.5 billion kg CO2e. For 2023, Southwest reported total emissions of approximately 24.9 billion kg CO2e, with Scope 1 emissions around 20.7 billion kg CO2e and Scope 2 emissions (market-based) at approximately 21.3 million kg CO2e. Scope 3 emissions for 2023 were about 4.1 billion kg CO2e. Southwest has set ambitious climate commitments, including a target to reduce its carbon emissions intensity by 50% by 2035, compared to 2019 levels. An interim goal is in place to achieve a 25% reduction in emissions intensity by 2030. These targets encompass all scopes of emissions. In 2023, the company's GHG emissions intensity was reported as 0.183 kg CO2e per revenue passenger mile (RPM). In 2024, this intensity decreased slightly to 0.18 kg CO2e per RPM. Southwest Airlines' US headquarters is in Dallas, Texas.
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Southwest’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
3 goals2035
50% reduction in all scopes
Reduce our carbon emissions intensity 50% by 2035 with an interim goal of 25% by 2030, both as compared with 2019¹
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
7 of 15 categories disclosedSee all scope 3 categories
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Climate initiatives
Science Based Targets Initiative
Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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Southwest
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