Members will earn points based on dollars spent, versus distance flown
New structure designed to better reward the program’s most engaged members
Frequent bonus points offers and promotions will help members earn rewards faster

MONTRÉAL, August 6, 2025 – Effective for travel on or after January 1, 2026, Aeroplan members will earn points on eligible Air Canada flights based on dollars spent rather than the distance they travel. On the same date, Air Canada will introduce Status Qualifying Credits (SQC), a new single path for achieving Aeroplan Elite status, that will change how members qualify for status based on their activities from January 1, 2026 onward.

Members will be able to get SQC through eligible flight purchases, Aeroplan credit card spending, and activity with the program’s travel and everyday partners.

These changes are designed to better recognize Aeroplan members who spend more and travel more with Air Canada and who actively engage across the program, while keeping Aeroplan Elite status truly special.

“Aeroplan has grown into one of the most rewarding and widely used travel loyalty programs,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada. “Our most engaged members do more than just fly with us—they earn with our partners, choose flexible fares, and carry Aeroplan credit cards. These changes help us better recognize their loyalty and keep improving the experience.”

Aeroplan Elite status qualification is unchanged for the remainder of 2025, including how members achieve status for 2026.

What’s changing in 2026

Here’s how members will earn Aeroplan points and qualify for Aeroplan Elite Status as of January 1, 2026:

Earn points based on spend. Members will earn a minimum of 1 Aeroplan point per $1 spent on an eligible Air Canada flight (base fare and carrier surcharges, excluding applicable taxes, fees, and third-party charges). For example: Spend $427 on base fare and carrier surcharges (excluding applicable taxes, fees and third-party charges), get 427 Aeroplan points.
Frequent bonus points offers, enabling members to reach rewards faster.
Aeroplan Elite status Members earn more on Air Canada flights. Depending on their status level at time of travel, Aeroplan Elite status members will earn 2x to 6x Aeroplan points per dollar spent on eligible Air Canada flights.
Qualify for Elite Status with SQC. Get up to 4 SQC per dollar on eligible Air Canada fares (base fare and carrier surcharges, excluding applicable taxes, fees, and third-party charges) based on fare type, plus up to 25,000 SQC through eligible Aeroplan credit card spending and get an additional 25,000 SQC via eligible partner activity.

Along with the new SQC-based qualification path, Aeroplan Elite status Members will have more ways to unlock benefits and get more from their status:

Core Benefits continue to be offered based on status, including complimentary checked bags, priority airport services, and more.
Milestone Benefits unlocked every 10,000 SQC, offering perks like bonus SQC, Status Passes and more.
10% Head Start. Beginning in 2027, primary Aeroplan premium credit cardholders who qualify for Aeroplan Elite status can receive a 10% SQC bonus based on their previous year’s earnings.

While each member’s activity will determine their new status level, we expect many of our current Aeroplan Elite status Members will benefit from the expanded ways to accumulate SQC. These changes are designed to better recognize and reward Aeroplan’s most loyal and engaged members.

For more information about these changes, visit aircanada.com/acearn2026 and aircanada.com/elite2026.

Aeroplan Celebrated at the 2025 Freddie Awards

Aeroplan earned three top honours at this year’s Freddie Awards:

Program of the Year (Airline)
Best Elite Program (Airline)
Best Promotion (Airline) for its 40th Anniversary Campaign.
With more than nine million votes cast by loyalty program members globally, Aeroplan is proud to be recognized for delivering exceptional rewards and experiences to its members.

Second quarter 2025 GAAP diluted loss per share of $(3.62)

Second quarter 2025 adjusted airline-only diluted earnings per share of $1.86⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

Second quarter 2025 adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.23⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

http://ir.allegiantair.com/

The only nonstop flights between Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Grand Cayman (GCM) begin Dec. 4 with fares as low as $66* one way

DANIA BEACH, Fla., Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Spirit Airlines’ (NYSE American: FLYY) Guests can soon soak up the sun and sand on some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean with new service launching to Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. The airline will begin the only nonstop flights between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) on Dec. 4, 2025, just in time for a winter trip to the tropics. Flights will operate three times per week on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

“Grand Cayman is a dream destination, and we look forward to offering our Guests new, affordable travel options to reach this island paradise,” said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines. “This is a win for travelers across our network, who are gaining more access to top destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America as we continue to expand service from Fort Lauderdale.”

Guests in more than 30 destinations across Spirit’s network will be able to reach Grand Cayman via convenient one-stop connections in Fort Lauderdale. Spirit is the largest carrier at FLL and is scheduled to operate more than 100 peak day departures to more than 70 destinations by the end of 2025.

In Grand Cayman, travelers can swim with stingrays, snorkel or dive at colorful coral reefs or relax on the sun-soaked sands of Seven Mile Beach.

“We are delighted to welcome Spirit Airlines to Owen Roberts International Airport with the launch of their new nonstop service from Fort Lauderdale,” said Albert Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of the Cayman Islands Airports Authority (CIAA). “This new route enhances connectivity to one of our key U.S. gateways and provides travelers with an affordable and convenient option to experience all that the Cayman Islands have to offer. We look forward to a strong partnership with Spirit as we continue to grow air access and support the development of tourism and business in the Cayman Islands.”

Introductory Fare
Guests traveling between Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Grand Cayman (GCM) can take advantage of special introductory fares starting at just $66* one way, including taxes and fees. The introductory fares are available for booking today on spirit.com, where travelers can browse flight details.

Spirit’s Elevated Guest Experience  
Travelers can enjoy Spirit’s three travel options, which offer a seamless and enhanced travel experience at a great value, on their trip to Grand Cayman:

• Spirit First provides enhanced comfort with a Big Front Seat^®, a carry-on and first checked bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Check-In and Boarding, reserved overhead bin space, complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, and streaming access to fast Wi-Fi.
• Premium Economy allows Guests to stretch out with more space in a Premium Seat with extra legroom or a blocked middle seat and includes one carry-on bag, no change or cancel fees, Priority Boarding and reserved overhead bin space.
• Value maximizes affordability and flexibility with the option for travelers to select only the extras they need. Seat selection, one carry-on bag, checked bags and other options can be purchased separately.

• Our daily nonstop to London Heathrow will connect business and leisure travelers to the largest intercontinental market from Seattle, our growing global gateway
• For the first time, we’re showcasing the striking new exterior design of Alaska-branded 787-9 long-haul aircraft, inspired by our heritage as we connect to the world 
• On the horizon, a new onboard global experience for the 787-9s based in Seattle and Hawaiian Airlines-branded Airbus 330 widebody aircraft based in Honolulu

SEATTLE, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Alaska Airlines is accelerating our future as a premium global carrier – growing bigger, flying farther and delivering the elevated experience our guests already know and love. As we continue our expansion journey, we’re charting a bold new course across the Atlantic with the launch of two new nonstop routes to London Heathrow and Reykjavik, Iceland,* from our growing global gateway in Seattle starting next spring. We’re also debuting Alaska’s striking global exterior design that will be featured on our growing fleet of up to 17 widebody 787 Dreamliner aircraft – part of a new global experience carrying the Alaska name.

“With these bold moves, we are accelerating our vision to connect our guests to the world,” said CEO Ben Minicucci. “We are seizing this moment to redefine the international experience and level up. And we’re doing it with the same relentless focus on safety, care and performance that’s always defined us. I’m so proud of how our people continue to step up and deliver as we push ahead on these initiatives, with even more to come.”

Flights to London and Reykjavik are scheduled to begin flying in spring 2026. They mark the fourth and fifth of at least 12 intercontinental destinations we’ll serve from our hometown airport in Seattle by 2030. Register now at alaskaair.com/london to be the first to learn about flight schedules and when you can book tickets on alaskaair.com later this fall.

• Seattle-London: We’ll offer daily, year-round service to the British capital – one of the most sought-after international destinations and business markets – on our widebody 787-9 aircraft, featuring 34 enclosed suites with fully lie-flat seats in Business Class. The Seattle-London route is popular with both corporate and leisure travelers who are eager for premium onboard amenities and services. London is the largest intercontinental market from Seattle, with more than 400 passengers traveling between the two vibrant cities every day.
  
  As a gateway to Europe, this daily flight will connect guests throughout the West Coast to London and other destinations served by Alaska’s extensive partner network.  Beyond those in the Pacific Northwest, this new service will also provide guests in the states of Alaska and Hawai’i with conveniently timed connectivity to a highly desired market. The route offers an alternative to those seeking more flight times, greater premium seat capacity, and the ability to earn and redeem valuable miles on Alaska’s award-winning loyalty program. Alaska’s expansion into the London market, facilitated by strengthened collaborations with American Airlines and British Airways, presents significant opportunities. These alliances are expected to deepen over time, offering even greater value and connectivity to consumers.
• Seattle-Reykjavik: This route will fly daily during the summer season when the days are long and bright in Iceland. Alaska will fly the route with 737-8 MAX aircraft, designed for this type of long-range flying. Iceland remains a bucket-list destination for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, and Reykjavik will continue to serve our guests as a convenient gateway to the European continent.

A new look for a new Alaska global experience

As we expand to new markets in Asia and Europe from Seattle, we’re introducing the first phase of a new global experience for long-haul flying to our guests on the 787-9 aircraft – an evolution of the Alaska brand that reflects a bold vision for international growth and our commitment to connecting the Pacific Northwest to destinations around the world. It starts with the striking exterior design – the livery – where the Alaska name remains but with an all-new look and feel. The 787-9s with the new livery debut in January. By spring, all Dreamliners in our fleet are scheduled to showcase the new design.

“Our new 787 exterior embodies Alaska’s transition to a global airline with beauty, grace and a nod to our heritage,” said Andrew Harrison, chief commercial officer at Alaska Airlines. “As we significantly expand to new destinations around the globe, we’re eager for more and more travelers to recognize our new livery as being Alaska Airlines and appreciate the outstanding service we’ve long been known for.”

The new 787-9 exterior design draws inspiration from the natural wonder of the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. This phenomenon captivates global audiences, and it’s an experience that’s well known across the state of Alaska.

• A palette of deep midnight blues and lush emerald greens channels the aurora’s energy and spirit into our brand.
• Flowing aura lines – seen in our current core livery and premium cabins – guide the design with light, motion and flow.
• We also looked to our heritage, incorporating thoughtful details like an eye-catching horizontal stripe along the fuselage – a contemporary nod to our classic liveries of the 70s and 80s that bridges our past to our future.

The Alaska Native on Alaska narrowbody aircraft and Pualani on all Hawaiian Airlines’ aircraft flying to, from and within the Hawaiian Islands are not going away. They will remain unchanged as essential elements of our brands’ legacies and history.

Bringing the most state-of-the-art aircraft to the Pacific Northwest

To support Alaska’s transformation, we’re establishing a 787-9 hub in Seattle that will deploy as many as 17 787s across our global network. In addition to our existing 737 pilot base, we will open a new pilot base to support 787 operations beginning next spring. We currently have four Dreamliners in the fleet.

The 787-9 has long-range capability, superior fuel efficiency, next-generation technology and award-winning suites in Business Class that offer a spacious, fully lie-flat seat, an 18″ screen for enjoying entertainment and a privacy door with direct aisle access.

The long-haul Dreamliner experience will be available from the Pacific Northwest when service begins between Seattle and Seoul-Incheon on Sept. 12, and on the existing Seattle-Tokyo Narita route starting on Jan. 7, 2026. Flights to Rome are scheduled to begin next spring.

Enhancing the global experience on our Airbus widebody fleet

Our Airbus 330 widebody aircraft will remain dedicated to international long-haul and Continental U.S. flying to and from Hawai’i, operated by Hawaiian Airlines from our second-largest hub in Honolulu. To enhance the travel experience for our guests, we are making substantial investments to the onboard experience over the next few years, including all-new interiors with updated lie-flat seats, a new premium economy cabin and upgraded main cabin seats. New premium products and amenities will match the exceptional service provided by our flight attendants.

*All flights mentioned in this announcement are subject to government approval.

Matthew brings to B&H Worldwide more than 30 years of senior leadership experience in international logistics, freight forwarding and supply chain management. He joins from Toll Global Forwarding, where he served as President and led the company’s strategy function.

Matthew’s appointment marks a strategic step forward in strengthening B&H Worldwide’s global commercial capabilities as the company continues to expand its footprint in key aerospace markets.

“We are delighted to welcome Matthew to the executive team at a pivotal time for our business,” said Stuart Allen, Group CEO of B&H Worldwide. “Matthew’s deep expertise in strategy, logistics and commercial transformation combined with his experience across both the customer and operator sides of the industry will be instrumental in accelerating our growth and delivering long-term value to our customers.”

Prior to his role at Toll, Matthew was a Partner and Director at Boston Consulting Group, where he led the Supply Chain practice area for Australia and New Zealand. His extensive career also includes senior positions at Linfox, Visy Group and GrainCorp.

Matthew holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Melbourne Business School at the University of Melbourne. He is also an experienced company director and non-executive chairman.

Commenting on his appointment, Matthew Warrington said: “I am thrilled to be joining B&H Worldwide at such an exciting stage in its growth. The company’s heritage, specialisation in aerospace logistics and global reputation for excellence set it apart in the industry. I look forward to working with the team to build on this strong foundation and shape the next chapter of commercial success.”

• Avianca now offers content from HBO Max, Formula 1 TV, and more than 350 free titles on its in-flight entertainment system, Avianca on Air.
• The new offerings have been available on personal devices for Airbus A320 flights and on the integrated screens of Boeing 787 aircraft.

Miami, FL – Aug. 1, 2025: Avianca is elevating its in-flight experience by introducing new content, including HBO Max, Formula 1 TV, and much more, to its Avianca on Air entertainment catalog.

This new initiative enables customers to enjoy over 350 titles at no extra cost, including children’s content, movies, documentaries, popular series, Formula 1 races, and more.

“The connection starts on board, and we have taken a step forward in enhancing our flight experience by adding content from HBO Max and Formula 1 TV, among others, so our customers can enjoy the best in entertainment while we connect them to their destination, thus improving their experience from takeoff to landing,” said Katherine Stradaioli, Vice President of Customer Delivery at Avianca.

Customers can access this content through Avianca on Air, available since July on their personal devices for Airbus A320 flights and on the integrated screens in the seats of Boeing 787 aircraft.

• Today Heathrow confirms it can deliver an operational third runway for £21bn within a decade, unlocking jobs and growth across the whole of the UK, if the Government moves at pace with necessary policy changes and an appropriate regulatory framework
• The 100% privately financed proposal promises more choice, better value, and global reach for passengers, airlines and exporters — unlocking at least 30 new destinations, serving up to 150 million passengers on up to 756,000 flights each year, and driving down fares through increased choice and competition
• Expanding Heathrow would add 0.43% to the UK’s GDP with 60% of the benefit felt outside London and the South-East, and grow the UK’s most valuable port by 50%
• Thanks to years of work, engagement and research already completed, Heathrow is uniquely placed to meet the Government’s timelines and see jobs and supply chain spend take off this year and planning permission granted by 2029

Today (Friday 1 August) Heathrow confirms it has submitted its shovel-ready proposals for a 100% privately financed third runway, capable of flights taking off within a decade. With the right Government policies, Heathrow is ready to play its part to support the national mission for economic growth.

An expanded Heathrow would give passengers more choice – at least 30 new daily routes, extra domestic connections and a better selection of flight times to the most popular destinations.

Alongside more reliable journeys and cheaper fares through an expanded airline selection, terminals will be more spacious and accessible and flights quicker to take off, thanks to a once-in-a-generation redesign of the airfield.

Once completed, Heathrow’s plans would grow the UK economy by 0.43% GDP, add 50% capacity to the country’s most valuable trading port – already enabling more than £200bn of annual trade – while keeping its global competitive edge.

The blueprint submitted to Government today includes:

• A north-western runway up to 3,500m – a design that already has Parliamentary support
• Increased capacity to serve up to 756,000 flights and 150m passengers
• A brand-new terminal ‘T5X’, expanding Terminal 2 and three new satellite terminals

The investment consists of three main elements: £21bn for the new runway and airfield infrastructure (up from £14bn in 2018 due to construction inflation), £12bn for new terminal and stand capacity – the brand new T5X – and £15bn for modernising the current airport through expanding Terminal 2 and ultimately closing Terminal 3.

A third runway and supporting infrastructure can be ready within a decade, and the full investment across all terminals would take place over the coming decades.

Heathrow’s proposals include more choice and capacity on public transport, such as enhanced rail capacity and walking and cycling routes, reducing local and environmental impacts.

A new road tunnel, plans for two dedicated parkways and improvements to the country’s busiest bus and coach station will make it easier than ever before to reach the airport.

Crucially, Heathrow is confirming its commitment to reach net zero by 2050, and has a deliverable plan to get there, as well as setting targets on noise reduction and air quality.

The airport is already ahead of target on its decarbonisation journey, cutting carbon from flights by around 10% since 2019, and carbon on the ground by 15% and has plans to ramp up further its world leadership on the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Heathrow’s noise footprint has reduced by 41% since 2006 and all air quality monitors around the airport are meeting limits. A third runway and redesigned airspace will give communities and passengers more certainty and reliability on flight paths.

There will be tens of thousands of employment opportunities during design, construction and operation, unlocking lifelong careers for those who live closest. Meanwhile 60% of the wider supply chain spend will go to companies outside London and the South-East, a truly national endeavour.

For the airport’s nearest neighbours, a community fund is being proposed, and Heathrow will continue to engage on how to be a better neighbour to its local community.

An appropriate regulatory framework needs to be put in place – one that encourages growth and investment while remaining affordable for customers – to secure many tens of billions of private capital from equity shareholders and from debt investors.

Heathrow has a track record of delivering under pressure – Terminals 2 and 5 have consistently been ranked by passengers as among the best in the world, both delivered on-time and on-budget.

Feedback from the Government will be required by September to stay on track for Ministers’ ambitious timeline.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “It has never been more important or urgent to expand Heathrow. We are effectively operating at capacity to the detriment of trade and connectivity. With a green light from Government and the correct policy support underpinned by a fit for purpose regulatory model, we are ready to mobilise and start investing this year in our supply chain across the country. We are uniquely placed to do this for the country; it is time to clear the way for take-off.”

If the Government implements the necessary policy changes, Heathrow plans to consult with airlines, the local community, local authorities, businesses and others from next year. A planning application is expected to be submitted in 2028.

Support for Heathrow expansion comes from Chambers of Commerce across the whole of the UK, businesses wanting better access to global markets, trade unions reaffirming the career opportunities, while local Chambers of Commerce, educators and construction firms are ready to roll up the sleeves and get to work.

Heathrow’s role in the country’s economy is unique. Today it connects UK exporters to 92% of the world’s economy in a direct flight. Expanding Heathrow will deliver new long-haul routes to growing economies and increase cargo capacity by 50%, expanding trading opportunities for businesses of all sizes.

Without action, the UK is at risk of losing its global aviation hub status in the face of growing competition from European hubs. While international competitors have room to grow, Heathrow is already at capacity. Without expansion the UK’s hub will fall behind, harming opportunities for the country’s economy.

Confederation of British Industry, British Chambers of Commerce, MakeUK, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors

“The UK business community supports the expansion of Heathrow with a third runway — an investment in the nation’s future. The benefits are clear: for exporters, it opens up vital access to major and emerging markets; for visitors, it enhances global and domestic connectivity; and for businesses, it unlocks billions in private investment, strengthening supply chains, creating jobs, and driving skills across the country.”

Kenton Jarvis, CEO, easyJet

“Expansion at Heathrow will provide consumer and economic benefits and represents a unique opportunity for easyJet to operate from the airport at scale for the first time and bring with it lower fares for consumers.”

Heathrow Business Coalition Members

“The Heathrow Business Coalition firmly supports the proposal for a third runway at Heathrow. As representatives of the airport’s exporters, supply chain partners, and retailers, we have witnessed first-hand the advantages of a thriving, globally competitive hub. Expanding capacity at the UK’s busiest airport is essential to keeping British businesses at the forefront of international trade.”

Gareth Stace, Director-General, UK Steel

“UK Steel welcomes Heathrow’s commitment to the UK Steel Charter and its decision to prioritise UK-made steel in its multi-billion-pound investment programme. This is a strong vote of confidence in Britain’s steel sector, supporting skilled, well-paid jobs, driving economic growth, and reinforcing resilient national supply chains. Heathrow’s leadership will deliver long-term benefits to steel communities, local businesses, and regions that stand to gain most from industrial investment.”

Scottish Chambers of Commerce & FSB Scotland

“The Scottish business community endorses the development of a third runway at Heathrow, recognising it as a critical infrastructure investment with significant economic opportunities. This expansion will not only enhance Scotland’s connectivity to key international markets but also strengthen the UK’s position as a global trading hub. By facilitating greater trading access to emerging and established economies, we are empowering Scottish businesses to scale, export, and compete on the world stage, while driving inclusive economic growth across the country.”

Amy Smith, Managing Director (Interim), Cornwall Airport Newquay

“Cornwall Airport Newquay supports infrastructure development that enables true regional connectivity. The proposed third runway at Heathrow has the potential to deliver meaningful hub access for regions like Cornwall – but only if there is a clear and sustained commitment to slot accessibility and affordability for regional carriers and regional routes. Direct and reliable connectivity to a UK hub is vital for Cornwall’s economy, inward investment, and the future of sustainable regional aviation.”

https://www.soleretriever.com/news/articles/delta-air-lines-100th-birthday-exclusive-nike-air-force-1-collab-release-date-july-2025

Delta is giving Bostonians more reasons to celebrate Patriots’ Day next year with the addition of 40 nonstop flights to 10 iconic leisure destinations across the U.S., just in time for spring break travel, including new service to Panama City, Fla. (ECP) for the first time ever. 

Delta is giving Bostonians more reasons to celebrate Patriots’ Day next year with the addition of 40 nonstop flights to 10 iconic leisure destinations across the U.S., just in time for spring break travel, including new service to Panama City, Fla. (ECP) for the first time ever. 

“Patriots’ Day is a uniquely Boston celebration, and we’re excited to offer nearly 6,000 additional seats on flights out of Boston to give our customers even more ways to make the most of the long weekend,” said Amy Martin, Vice President – Network Planning. “Whether you’re chasing sunshine, reuniting with loved ones or just taking a well-earned break, these new routes make it easier than ever to take off from Boston and land somewhere sunny.” 

Additional capacity for Patriots’ Day will operate on April 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 and 26, and will depart from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to: 

• Panama City, Fla. (ECP) 

• Charleston, S.C. (CHS) 

• Jacksonville, Fla. (JAX) 

• Orlando, Fla. (MCO) 

• Myrtle Beach, S.C. (MYR) 

• West Palm Beach, Fla. (PBI) 

• Pensacola, Fla. (PNS) 

• Fort Myers, Fla. (RSW) 

• Savannah, Ga. (SAV) 

• Sarasota, Fla. (SRQ) 

These additions will be operated on a mix of Delta and Delta Connection and build on Delta’s commitment to Boston as a key coastal hub, offering customers more convenient options to escape the lingering chill of New England spring and enjoy warm-weather getaways with ease. 

Delta’s expanded schedule will offer seamless connections, award-winning service and the reliability travelers expect, whether they’re heading to the historic charm of Charleston or the sugar-white sands of Florida’s Gulf Coast. 

DELTA IN BOSTON 

As Boston’s No. 1 premium global airline, Delta operates 165 peak day departures with service to 62 total destinations, including 11 international destinations and San Juan, Puerto Rico.  

With over 2,000 Bay State-based employees, Delta Air Lines and the Delta Air Lines Foundation partner with over a dozen local organizations to foster a vibrant and flourishing community for Bostonians. 

Rakesh Gangwal steps down as independent Chair, remains on the Board

Doug Brooks appointed as new independent Chair

Board forms new Ad Hoc Fleet Oversight Committee

DALLAS, July 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) today announced the appointment of Doug Brooks as the new independent Chair of the Board, effective Aug. 1, 2025. This appointment follows Rakesh Gangwal’s decision to step down from his role as Chair, effective Aug. 1, 2025, due to additional time commitments unrelated to Southwest. The Company also announced the formation of a new Fleet Oversight Committee to assist the Board in its oversight of the Company’s aircraft fleet acquisition strategy. Gangwal will serve as Chair of the newly formed Fleet Oversight Committee and continue to serve on the Finance Committee and the Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee.

“In a short period of one year, Southwest implemented a massive overhaul of its business model that will serve it well for years to come. Not many companies have the courage and conviction to fundamentally change ingrained aspects of their business model for the benefit of all their stakeholders. The transformation of Southwest Airlines is well underway,” said Gangwal. “Bob Jordan and the management team deserve enormous credit for stepping up to unlock value for all our stakeholders. I am pleased with the current trajectory and traction of the Company and delighted that Doug will lead the Board and continue to build on the transformation underway. I look forward to continuing to serve as an active director, supporting Doug in his new role, and presiding over the newly formed Fleet Oversight Committee.”

Doug Brooks said, “I am deeply honored to serve Southwest in this new leadership position during this evolutionary time in the Company’s history. The Board is well-positioned to oversee the advancement of the Company’s strategic priorities and efforts to deliver superior financial performance, and I look forward to Rakesh’s continued involvement.”

“Doug is a decisive leader and has a proven track record of creating shareholder value. He is well-prepared to take on this important role and has a strong appreciation for and understanding of Southwest’s history and future direction,” said Bob Jordan, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Southwest. “I am immensely grateful to Rakesh for his leadership, vision, and tireless dedication. Under his guidance, the Board has challenged and inspired the Leadership Team to work with relentless determination and pace to propel our Company forward. Southwest will continue to benefit from his insight and expertise.”

Brooks has served as a Director of the Company since 2010. He formerly served as Chairman, President, and CEO of Brinker International, Inc. (“Brinker”), a multinational portfolio of restaurants. Brooks also served in other executive capacities for Brinker, including as its Chief Operating Officer and as President of Chili’s Grill & Bar. In his tenure at Brinker, Brooks led the company’s portfolio optimization efforts through the sale of its interests in multiple restaurant brands to focus its efforts on its two core restaurant assets. Brooks has also served as a director of multiple public companies, including AutoZone, Inc., which delivered a total shareholder return of over 450% over his tenure. Brooks also serves on the Professional Advisory Board of St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.