Southwest Airlines Appoints Rakesh Gangwal as Board Chair in Dallas, Leading Strategic Changes to Propel U.S. Tourism and Aviation Growth

Monday, November 4, 2024

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) has announced the appointment of Rakesh Gangwal as the new independent Chair of its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Gangwal, a seasoned executive with a rich aviation background, steps into the role as Southwest aligns its leadership to strengthen its financial performance and strategic goals.

In addition to Gangwal’s appointment, Southwest has named several new Committee Chairs to drive essential areas of governance and operations:

• Lisa Atherton as Chair of the Compensation Committee,
• Douglas Brooks as Chair of the Audit Committee,
• David Hess continuing as Chair of the Safety and Operations Committee,
• Chris Reynolds as Chair of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, and
• Gregg Saretsky as Chair of the Finance Committee.

“We are embarking on the next era of change at Southwest as we build upon its many successes and storied past,” Gangwal said. “Our immediate focus is to unite as a Board and work closely with CEO Bob Jordan and the management team to return the airline to superior financial performance.”

Bob Jordan, Southwest’s President and CEO, welcomed the new Board configuration, emphasizing the significance of this leadership in executing the airline’s growth plans. “Our people are at the heart of Southwest’s culture and set us apart from our competitors,” Jordan noted, expressing gratitude to employees for their commitment to delivering exceptional service to customers.

Known for its employee-first culture, Southwest Airlines has achieved significant industry milestones since its founding in 1971. With a network spanning 117 airports across 11 countries, Southwest remains a leader in affordable, reliable air travel, carrying more nonstop passengers within the U.S. than any other airline. The airline’s dedication to service, alongside a robust plan for sustainable growth, continues to strengthen its reputation as a top performer in the airline industry.

Further details on Board changes and other investor information are available in Southwest’s Investor Relations section on their website.

• Giddings, Texas: A New Model for Tourism Development as it Receives Certification for Its Strong Economic Impact and Community Engagement

• Explore Austin, Los Angeles, Orlando, Houston, New Orleans, San Francisco, Miami, Tampa, Denver, Chicago, and More, with Southwest Airlines Offering Flights, Cruises, Hotels, and Packages Starting at Just $49

• Galveston cruise port poised to become the United States’ third largest in 2025

• New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, Vancouver, Houston, San Francisco, Dallas, Miami, Montreal, Atlanta, Boston, Seattle, Washington D.C., Las Vegas, Denver, San Diego Driving Global Travel Bookings With 543.8 Billion USD

• Surging Top 10 Travel Trends for 2025 AI-Driven Itineraries, Eco-Friendly Escapes, Culinary Adventures, and Solo Journeys That Will Transform Your Next Trip