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Southwest Airlines reports a record first quarter profit

Southwest Airlines Company (Dallas) today reported its first quarter 2015 results:

Record first quarter net income, excluding special items1, of $451 million, or $.66 per diluted share, compared with first quarter 2014 net income, excluding special items, of $126 million, or $.18 per diluted share. This represented a 266.7 percent increase from first quarter 2014 and exceeded the First Call consensus estimate of $.65 per diluted share.

Record first quarter net income of $453 million, or $.66 per diluted share, which included $2 million (net) of favorable special items, compared with first quarter 2014 net income of $152 million, or $.22 per diluted share, which included $26 million (net) of favorable special items.

Record first quarter operating income of $780 million. Excluding special items, record first quarter operating income of $770 million, resulting in an operating margin2 of 17.4 percent.

Strong free cash flow1 of $859 million used to return $381 million to Shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, and to repay $51 million in debt and capital lease obligations.

Return on invested capital, before taxes and excluding special items (ROIC)1, for the 12 months ended March 31, 2015, of 25.6 percent, compared with 14.2 percent for the 12 months ended March 31, 2014.

Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are thrilled to report an exceptionally strong first quarter 2015 earnings performance. Our net income, excluding special items, of $451 million, or $.66 per diluted share, far surpasses any first quarter profit in our history and represents our eighth consecutive quarter of record profits. Our first quarter 2015 operating income, excluding special items, increased over 200 percent year-over-year to $770 million, resulting in a first quarter record 17.4 percent operating margin. Our ROIC for the 12 months ended March 31, 2015, was an outstanding 25.6 percent. These superb results earned our 47,000 hard-working and dedicated Employees a first quarter record $126 million profitsharing accrual, up 334.5 percent from first quarter 2014.

“Total operating revenues were a first quarter record $4.4 billion, driven by a 6.2 percent year-over-year increase in passenger revenues and double-digit year-over-year percentage growth in freight revenues. Customer demand was strong throughout first quarter 2015, resulting in a record first quarter load factor of 80.1 percent. As expected, first quarter 2015 passenger revenues grew in line with our available seat mile (ASM) growth of 6.0 percent, year-over-year. Considering the 4.1 percent increase in stage length and the 2.7 percent increase in seats per trip3 (gauge) from our fleet modernization, year-over-year, we are very pleased with our first quarter 2015 unit revenue performance. Strong revenue and booking trends have continued thus far in April. Second quarter 2015 year-over-year comparisons are more challenging, largely due to last year’s exceptional and above-trend performance. With the continuation of year-over-year increases in stage length and gauge, we currently expect our April 2015 passenger unit revenues to decline, year-over-year, approximately two percent.

“We are delighted also with our unit cost trends, which continue to benefit from increased stage length, increased gauge, lower maintenance costs, and substantially lower fuel prices. Our first quarter 2015 unit costs, excluding special items, declined 12.4 percent year-over-year. First quarter 2015 economic fuel costs were $2.00 per gallon, compared with $3.08 per gallon in first quarter 2014, resulting in over $450 million in economic fuel cost savings. Based on our existing fuel derivative contracts and market prices as of April 16, 2015, we estimate second quarter 2015 economic fuel costs per gallon will be comparable to first quarter 2015’s $2.00 per gallon.

“Setting fuel aside, the solid first quarter 2015 cost performance reflects our intense focus to control costs and maintain our competitive low-cost position. Excluding fuel and oil expense and special items, our first quarter 2015 unit costs were comparable to first quarter last year. Unit costs were down 3.6 percent, year-over-year, when also excluding first quarter 2015 profitsharing expense. Based on current cost trends, and excluding fuel and oil expense, special items, and profitsharing, we expect second quarter 2015 unit costs to decline in the one-to-two percent range, and full year 2015 unit costs to decline approximately two percent, both compared with the same year-ago periods.

“Our network optimization is producing strong financial results, and we are pleased with the performance of our markets under development. We continue to project roughly 700 aircraft by year-end, and an approximate seven percent year-over-year increase in ASMs versus 2014. The full year effect of 2015’s expansion is also estimated to increase 2016 ASMs approximately five percent, year-over-year, and we currently expect any further 2016 ASM year-over-year growth to be modest, with a focus on producing strong returns on our investments. Our incremental fleet growth in 2016 is currently expected to approximate two percent, compared with 2015.

“The Customer response to our new Dallas Love Field service, which represents the majority of 2015 year-over-year ASM growth, is very strong, and first quarter 2015 Dallas traffic has increased 145.5 percent from year-ago levels. In first quarter 2015, we acquired the rights to two additional gates, bringing our total gate occupancy to 18 at Dallas Love Field. By August 2015, we are scheduled to operate 180 weekday departures to 50 nonstop destinations, representing a more than 50 percent increase in flight activity since the lifting of the Wright Amendment restrictions4 in October 2014. We are very pleased to provide more competition, more travel options, and low fares for the Dallas market.

“Our international expansion also continued during first quarter 2015. On March 7, 2015, Costa Rica became our sixth international country served with daily nonstop service between Baltimore/Washington and San Jose, Costa Rica. We also launched international flying from Houston Hobby with seasonal Saturday service to Aruba5. We remain on track to add an additional six international destinations from Hobby later this year with the planned October completion of the international terminal. We look forward to beginning service to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, in June 2015, and pending government approvals, Belize City, Belize, in October 2015.

“We are managing our invested capital aggressively and continue to provide healthy returns to our Shareholders. During first quarter 2015, we returned $381 million through the payment of $81 million in dividends and the repurchase of $300 million in common stock. And, we expect to complete the repurchase of the remaining $80 million under our existing $1 billion share repurchase authorization next month. Our balance sheet, liquidity, and cash flows remain strong, and we ended first quarter 2015 with $3.4 billion in cash and short-term investments, with a fully available unsecured revolving credit line of $1 billion.”

During first quarter 2015, the Company returned $381 million to its Shareholders through the payment of $81 million in dividends and the repurchase of $300 million in common stock, or 5.1 million shares, pursuant to an accelerated share repurchase (ASR) program executed during the quarter. This ASR program was completed in early April, and the Company then received an additional 1.8 million shares, bringing the total shares repurchased under the first quarter 2015 ASR program to 6.9 million. During first quarter 2015, the Company also received the remaining 1.1 million shares pursuant to the fourth quarter 2014 $200 million ASR program, bringing the total shares repurchased under that ASR program to 4.9 million. The Company intends to complete the repurchase of the remaining $80 million under its existing $1.0 billion share repurchase authorization in May 2015.

Boeing 737 Delivery Schedule:

In other related news, the Southwest Airlines Pilots’ Association (SWAPA) announced it has joined the Partnership for Open and Fair Skies, a coalition of U.S. airlines and airline industry labor unions. These groups seek to level the playing field against heavily subsidized state-owned carriers from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“These government-owned Gulf carriers are not playing by the rules their governments agreed to when they signed Open Skies agreements with the U.S.,” said SWAPA President Capt. Paul Jackson. “Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Emirates Airline are being fueled by tens of billions of dollars in state subsidies and that not only puts U.S. airlines at a competitive disadvantage, but also jeopardizes jobs throughout the U.S. airline industry.”

In joining the Partnership for Open and Fair Skies, SWAPA has united with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and seven other labor organizations in asking the U.S. government to open consultations with Qatar and the UAE, as provided for within the Open Skies agreements. This step is needed to address the unfair state subsidies that are enabling Qatar, Etihad, and Emirates to rapidly expand their fleets and routes into the U.S. market. SWAPA also backed the Partnership’s call for the U.S. government to seek a freeze on any new passenger service by the Gulf carriers into the U.S. as the consultations go forward.

A 55-page white paper presented by the Partnership to the U.S. government earlier this year and released to the public in March documented $42 billion in state subsidies and other unfair benefits provided to Qatar, Etihad, and Emirates by their respective governments since 2004 alone. That massive state support is a clear violation of Open Skies policy.

“The evidence is too overwhelming and the airline industry is too important to our country for the U.S. government not to take action,” continued Jackson. “Southwest pilots are proud to stand with the other members of the Partnership in calling for a level playing field.”

Copyright Photo: Joe G. Walker/AirlinersGallery.com. Southwest continues to buy previously operated Boeing 737-700s on the open market. Formerly operated by WestJet as C-FWAD, the pictured Boeing 737-7CT is now operating as N566WN (msn 32753) for Southwest in full colors. N566WN arrives at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Southwest Airlines aircraft slide show (new livery only):

Southwest reports record second quarter net income of $485 million

Southwest Airlines Company (Southwest Airlines and AirTran Airways) (Dallas) today reported its second quarter 2014 results:

Record quarterly net income, excluding special items*, of $485 million, or $.70 per diluted share, compared to second quarter 2013 net income, excluding special items, of $274 million, or $.38 per diluted share. This exceeded the First Call consensus estimate of $.61 per diluted share.

Record quarterly net income of $465 million, or $.67 per diluted share, which included $20 million (net) of unfavorable special items, compared to second quarter 2013 net income of $224 million, or $.31 per diluted share, which included $50 million (net) of unfavorable special items.

Record quarterly operating income of $775 million. Excluding special items, record quarterly operating income of $819 million, resulting in a 16.3 percent operating margin**.

Return on invested capital*, before taxes and excluding special items, for the 12 months ended June 30, 2014, of 17.1 percent, as compared to 8.5 percent for the 12 months ended June 30, 2013.

Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated:

“We are very pleased with our strong second quarter earnings performance. Net income, excluding special items, of $485 million, or $.70 per diluted share, represents our fifth consecutive quarter of record profits. The successful execution of our strategic initiatives continues to contribute significantly to these record profits. Second quarter 2014 total operating revenues reached an all-time quarterly high of $5.0 billion, benefiting from an 8.5 percent year-over-year increase in passenger revenues. Also, we were very pleased with our cost performance. Operating expenses benefited from our strategic initiatives, as well, and were comparable to second quarter last year.

“My hearty congratulations and thanks go to our hard-working and dedicated Employees for our outstanding second quarter results, which resulted in record quarterly profitsharing expense of $127 million. Over the last twelve months, our exceptional earnings performance, combined with our actions to prudently manage our invested capital, produced a 17.1 percent pre-tax return on invested capital, excluding special items (ROIC). This positions us well to meet or exceed our 15 percent pre-tax ROIC target for full year 2014.

“Our network development and optimization efforts continue, and we are very pleased with the performance across our system. Second quarter load factor and passenger revenue yield were records, even with a large percentage of the route system in the conversion or development stage. We announced our initial nonstop offerings from Dallas Love Field with the upcoming sunset of the Wright Amendment restrictions on October 13, and nearly tripled the flights we currently offer at Reagan National Airport, effective November 2 this year. On July 1, we inaugurated international service on Southwest Airlines, with flights to Oranjestad, Aruba; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Nassau/Paradise Island in The Bahamas. We plan to fully convert AirTran’s remaining international markets and domestic flying by the end of this year. We expect roughly flat 2014 available seat miles, year-over-year, and intend to expand the network in a disciplined manner. For 2015, we currently expect our available seat miles to increase, year-over-year, largely driven by a two to three percent growth in seats from the upgauging of our fleet, along with a higher percentage of our fleet in revenue service post-integration.

“During second quarter, we announced the selection of Amadeus to implement the Altéa reservations solution to support our domestic network, following the successful implementation of Amadeus’ international solution this year. This allows us to replace the legacy reservation system used by Southwest. The AirTran reservation system is expected to be retired at this year’s end.

“Our balance sheet, liquidity, and cash flows remain strong. At the end of second quarter 2014, we had $4.0 billion in cash and short-term investments. For first half 2014, net cash provided by operations was $2.46 billion, and capital expenditures were $907 million, resulting in strong free cash flow* of $1.55 billion. We repaid $119 million in debt and capital lease obligations during first half 2014, and intend to repay an additional $440 million in debt and capital lease obligations in the second half of this year. Thus far this year, we have returned $652 million to Shareholders through the payment of $97 million in dividends and the repurchase of $555 million in common stock. As always, we are committed to maintaining our financial strength and enhancing value to our Shareholders.”

Financial Results and Outlook

The Company’s second quarter 2014 total operating revenues increased 7.9 percent, while operating unit revenues increased 8.4 percent, on a 0.4 percent decrease in available seat miles and a 2.2 percent increase in average seats per trip, all as compared to second quarter 2013. Second quarter 2014 passenger revenues were $4.8 billion, which was an increase of 9.0 percent on a unit basis, as compared to second quarter 2013. A change to previously recorded estimates of tickets expected to spoil in the future resulted in additional passenger revenue of $47 million in second quarter 2014.

Thus far, July passenger revenue trends and bookings are strong. Based on these trends, and considering the strength of the year-ago comparison, the Company expects July 2014 passenger unit revenues to increase in the three percent range, as compared to July 2013.

Total operating expenses in second quarter 2014 increased 0.6 percent to $4.2 billion, as compared to second quarter 2013. Second quarter 2014 profitsharing expense was a record $127 million, compared to $78 million in second quarter 2013. The Company incurred costs (before profitsharing and taxes) associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, which are special items, of $38 million during second quarter 2014, compared to $26 million in second quarter 2013. Cumulative costs associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, as of June 30, 2014, totaled $466 million (before profitsharing and taxes). The Company expects total acquisition and integration costs to be approximately $550 million (before profitsharing and taxes). Excluding special items in both periods, total operating expenses in second quarter 2014 increased 0.7 percent to $4.2 billion, as compared to second quarter 2013.

Second quarter 2014 economic fuel costs were $3.02 per gallon, including $.05 per gallon in favorable cash settlements from fuel derivative contracts, compared to $3.06 per gallon in second quarter 2013, including $.05 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements from fuel derivative contracts. Based on the Company’s fuel derivative contracts and market prices as of July 21, 2014, third quarter 2014 economic fuel costs are expected to be in the $2.95 to $3.00 per gallon range, compared to third quarter 2013’s economic fuel costs of $3.06 per gallon. As of July 21, 2014, the fair market value of the Company’s hedge portfolio through 2018 was a net asset of $381 million. Additional information regarding the Company’s fuel derivative contracts is included in the accompanying tables.

Excluding fuel and oil expense, profitsharing, and special items in both periods, second quarter 2014 operating costs increased 1.1 percent from second quarter 2013, and increased 1.7 percent on a unit basis. Based on current cost trends, and excluding fuel and oil expense, profitsharing, and special items, the Company expects a year-over-year increase in its third quarter 2014 unit costs, comparable to the second quarter 2014 year-over-year increase.

Operating income in second quarter 2014 was $775 million, compared to $433 million in second quarter 2013. Excluding special items, operating income was $819 million in second quarter 2014, compared to $479 million in the same period last year, a 71.0 percent increase year-over-year.

Other expenses in second quarter 2014 were $29 million, compared to $70 million in second quarter 2013. The $41 million decrease primarily resulted from $3 million in other losses recognized in second quarter 2014, compared to $47 million recognized in second quarter 2013. In both periods, these losses included ineffectiveness and unrealized mark-to-market amounts associated with a portion of the Company’s fuel hedging portfolio, which are special items. Excluding these special items, second quarter 2014 had $15 million in other losses, compared to $12 million in second quarter 2013, primarily attributable to the premium costs associated with the Company’s fuel derivative contracts. Third quarter 2014 premium costs related to fuel derivative contracts are currently estimated to be $15 million, compared to $22 million in third quarter 2013. Net interest expense in second quarter 2014 was $26 million, compared to $23 million in second quarter 2013.

For the six months ended June 30, 2014, total operating revenues increased 5.2 percent to $9.2 billion, while total operating expenses decreased 0.4 percent to $8.2 billion, resulting in operating income of $991 million, compared to $503 million for the same period last year. Excluding special items, operating income was $1.1 billion for first half 2014, compared to $591 million for first half 2013.

Net income for first half 2014 was $617 million, or $.88 per diluted share, compared to $283 million, or $.39 per diluted share, for the same period last year. Excluding special items, net income for first half 2014 was $611 million, or $.87 per diluted share, compared to $328 million, or $.45 per diluted share, for the same period last year.

Balance Sheet and Cash Flows

As of June 30, 2014, the Company had $4.0 billion in cash and short-term investments, and a fully available unsecured revolving credit line of $1 billion. Net cash provided by operations during second quarter 2014 was $1.34 billion, and capital expenditures were $500 million, generating strong free cash flow of $838 million. The Company repaid $73 million in debt and capital lease obligations during second quarter 2014.

During second quarter 2014, the Company returned $282 million to its Shareholders through the payment of $42 million in dividends and the repurchase of $240 million in common stock, or 7.6 million shares. The Company completed its previous $1.5 billion share repurchase program with the repurchase of $20 million in common stock in early May. On May 14, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a new $1 billion share repurchase program, along with a 50 percent increase in the Company’s quarterly dividend. Under the new $1 billion share repurchase program, the Company repurchased an additional $220 million in common stock during second quarter 2014, including $200 million repurchased under an accelerated share repurchase program with a third party financial institution. During second quarter 2014, pursuant to the accelerated share repurchase program, the Company advanced $200 million to the financial institution and received six million shares of the Company’s common stock, representing an estimated 75 percent of the shares the Company expects to purchase under the accelerated share repurchase program. The specific number of shares that the Company ultimately will repurchase under the accelerated share repurchase program will be determined generally based on a discount to the volume-weighted average price per share of the Company’s common stock during a calculation period to be completed during third quarter 2014. At settlement, under certain circumstances, the third party financial institution may be required to deliver additional shares of common stock to the Company, or under certain circumstances, the Company may be required to deliver shares of its common stock or may elect to make a cash payment to the third party financial institution. Pursuant to the settlement of the $200 million accelerated share repurchase program executed in first quarter 2014, the Company received an additional 1.7 million shares in common stock during second quarter 2014, bringing the total shares repurchased under the first quarter accelerated share repurchase program to 8.6 million.

Fleet

During second quarter 2014, the Company’s fleet increased by seven to 683 aircraft at period end. This reflects the second quarter 2014 delivery of 12 new Boeing 737-800s and three pre-owned Boeing 737-700s, as well as the retirement of one Boeing 737-500. In addition, the Company removed seven Boeing 717-200s from service during second quarter 2014 in preparation for transition out of the fleet.

Boeing 737 NG Delivery Schedule:

Notes:

*Additional information regarding special items is included in the accompanying reconciliation tables, and see Note Regarding Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.
**Operating margin, excluding special items, is calculated as operating income, excluding special items, divided by operating revenues.

Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 737-7H4 N280WN (msn 32533) in the Penguin One special livery arrives in Los Angeles.

Southwest Airlines:

AirTran Airways:

Southwest Airlines Company reports record first quarter net profit of $126 million

Southwest Airlines Company (Southwest Airlines and AirTran Airways) (Dallas) today reported its first quarter 2014 results:

Record first quarter net income, excluding special items*, of $126 million, or $.18 per diluted share, compared to first quarter 2013 net income, excluding special items, of $53 million, or $.07 per diluted share. This exceeded the First Call consensus estimate of $.16 per diluted share.

Record first quarter net income of $152 million, or $.22 per diluted share, which included $26 million (net) of favorable special items, compared to net income of $59 million, or $.08 per diluted share, in first quarter 2013, which included $6 million (net) of favorable special items.

Record first quarter operating income of $215 million; $242 million excluding special items.
Return on invested capital*, before taxes and excluding special items (ROIC), for the 12 months ended March 31, 2014, of 14.2 percent, as compared to 8.3 percent for the 12 months ended March 31, 2013.

Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “I am delighted to report record first quarter earnings, which increased significantly year-over-year, despite the disruption caused by more than 7,500 of our flights canceled due to extreme weather conditions and the impact of the shift in timing of the Easter and Passover holidays. This outstanding performance was driven by record first quarter operating revenues of $4.2 billion, and a 1.2 percent year-over-year decline in total operating costs, excluding special items, driven largely by lower fuel prices and our ongoing fleet modernization. Our record first quarter operating income of $242 million, excluding special items, was very strong, especially considering an estimated $50 million unfavorable impact from winter storms. Operationally, our Employees did an outstanding job in difficult conditions taking care of our Customers, and I thank them again for their efforts.

“Our first quarter 2014 earnings performance is a superb start to the year and on plan to achieve a 15 percent pre-tax return on invested capital for the year, excluding special items. Second quarter 2014, benefiting from the Easter and Passover holidays, also is off to a great start, with strong bookings, favorable revenue trends, and stable fuel prices.

“Our balance sheet, liquidity, and cash flows remain strong. We are actively managing our debt and total invested capital, while making strategic investments that have already contributed significantly to our record profitability. We were pleased to return $371 million to Shareholders during first quarter 2014 through the payment of $56 million in dividends and the repurchase of $315 million in common stock. Since August 2011, we have returned $1.6 billion to our Shareholders through share repurchases and dividend payments.

“Our five strategic initiatives are on track and meeting or exceeding expectations. In January, we deployed our international reservation system and began selling Southwest’s inaugural international service to Aruba, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, scheduled to begin July 1, 2014. We quickly followed with selling Southwest service to Cancun and Los Cabos, scheduled to begin August 10, 2014. By the end of this year, we intend to fully convert AirTran’s seven international markets, along with its remaining domestic markets, to the Southwest route network. We have converted 21 of the 52 AirTran Boeing 737-700s to the Southwest Evolve configuration, and plan to convert the remaining 31 -700s this year (see below). This will complete the AirTran integration and retire the brand by the end of 2014.

“We have a significant amount of fleet activity planned this year, as we wind down the AirTran brand and continue to modernize our fleet, resulting in a larger than normal number of aircraft out of scheduled service. Accordingly, we expect relatively flat 2014 available seat miles, year-over-year.

“Our network development and optimization results, to date, have been excellent. We are excited about the opportunity to add new service to New York LaGuardia, Washington Reagan National, and Dallas Love Field this year, as well as to the international terminal under construction at Houston Hobby next year. Looking ahead to 2015, while we have not finalized our fleet and capacity plans, we have been managing to a baseline of 695 aircraft, which was our combined fleet at the time of the AirTran acquisition. We are planning year-over-year growth in our available seat miles derived from increased fleet utilization resulting from the completion of the AirTran integration and the increase in seats from the upgauging of our fleet. Of course, this will drive significant unit cost benefits.”

Financial Results and Outlook

The Company’s first quarter 2014 total operating revenues increased 2.0 percent, year-over-year, to $4.2 billion, despite an estimated $45 million reduction to revenues from weather-related cancellations. Operating unit revenues increased 3.1 percent, on a 1.1 percent decrease in available seat miles and a 2.6 percent increase in average seats per trip, all as compared to first quarter 2013. While the shift in the timing of the Easter and Passover holidays impacted March results, April bookings and revenue trends, thus far, are strong. Based on April’s trends and current bookings for the remainder of the second quarter, the Company expects another solid year-over-year increase in its second quarter 2014 operating unit revenues.

Total operating expenses in first quarter 2014 decreased 1.6 percent to $4.0 billion, as compared to first quarter 2013. First quarter 2014 total operating expenses included an estimated $5 million in net costs associated with winter storms. The Company incurred costs (before profitsharing and taxes) associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, which are special items, of $18 million during first quarter 2014, compared to $13 million in first quarter 2013. Cumulative costs associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, as of March 31, 2014, totaled $428 million (before profitsharing and taxes). The Company expects total acquisition and integration costs to be no more than $550 million (before profitsharing and taxes). Excluding special items in both periods, total operating expenses in first quarter 2014 decreased 1.2 percent to $3.9 billion, as compared to $4.0 billion in first quarter 2013.

First quarter 2014 profitsharing expense was $29 million, compared to $15 million in first quarter 2013. Profitsharing expense in first quarter 2014 was impacted by acquisition and integration costs incurred during that period. In addition, in accordance with the Company’s ProfitSharing Plan (the Plan), first quarter 2014 operating profit, as defined in the Plan, was reduced by a portion of the acquisition and integration costs incurred from April 1, 2011, through December 31, 2013, which will be amortized from January 1, 2014, through December 31, 2018.

First quarter 2014 economic fuel costs were $3.08 per gallon, including $.06 per gallon in favorable cash settlements from fuel derivative contracts, compared to $3.29 per gallon in first quarter 2013, including $.05 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements from fuel derivative contracts. Based on the Company’s fuel derivative contracts and market prices as of April 21, 2014, second quarter 2014 economic fuel costs are expected to be comparable to second quarter 2013’s economic fuel costs of $3.06 per gallon. As of April 21, 2014, the fair market value of the Company’s hedge portfolio through 2017 was a net asset of approximately $252 million. Additional information regarding the Company’s fuel derivative contracts is included in the accompanying tables.

Excluding economic fuel and oil expense, profitsharing, and special items in both periods, first quarter 2014 operating costs increased 2.4 percent from first quarter 2013, and increased 3.5 percent on a unit basis. Based on current cost trends, the Company expects both second quarter 2014 and full year 2014 unit costs, excluding fuel and oil expense, profitsharing, and special items, to increase, year-over-year, in the two to three percent range.

Operating income for first quarter 2014 was $215 million, compared to $70 million in first quarter 2013. Excluding special items, operating income was $242 million in first quarter 2014, compared to $112 million in the same period last year.

Other income in first quarter 2014 was $29 million, compared to $24 million in first quarter 2013. The $5 million increase primarily resulted from $53 million in other gains recognized in first quarter 2014, compared to $46 million recognized in first quarter 2013. In both periods, these gains primarily resulted from unrealized mark-to-market net gains associated with a portion of the Company’s fuel hedging portfolio, which are special items. Excluding these special items, first quarter 2014 had $16 million in other losses, compared to $5 million in first quarter 2013, primarily attributable to the premium costs associated with the Company’s fuel derivative contracts. Second quarter 2014 premium costs related to fuel derivative contracts are currently estimated to be in the $15 million to $20 million range, compared to $12 million in second quarter 2013. Net interest expense in first quarter 2014 was $24 million, compared to $22 million in first quarter 2013.

Balance Sheet and Cash Flows

As of April 23, 2014, the Company had approximately $3.5 billion in cash and short-term investments, and a fully available unsecured revolving credit line of $1 billion. Net cash provided by operations during first quarter 2014 was $1.1 billion, and capital expenditures were $407 million, which included the payment for slots acquired at Washington’s Reagan National Airport. The Company repaid $46 million in debt and capital lease obligations during the first quarter 2014, and intends to repay approximately $500 million in debt and capital lease obligations during the remainder of 2014, which includes $35 million paid on April 1, 2014, associated with eight of the Company’s Fixed-rate Boeing 717 Aircraft Notes due in 2017.

During first quarter 2014, the Company generated free cash flow* of $712 million. The Company returned approximately $371 million to its Shareholders through the payment of $56 million in dividends and the repurchase of $315 million in common stock, or 12 million shares, under its share repurchase program, including $200 million under an accelerated share repurchase program with a third party financial institution. In first quarter, pursuant to the accelerated share repurchase program, the Company advanced $200 million to the financial institution and received approximately seven million shares of the Company’s common stock, representing an estimated 75 percent of the shares the Company expects to purchase under the accelerated share repurchase program. The specific number of shares that the Company ultimately will repurchase under the accelerated share repurchase program will be determined generally based on a discount to the volume-weighted average price per share of the Company’s common stock during a calculation period to be completed by May 9, 2014. At settlement, under certain circumstances, the third party financial institution may be required to deliver additional shares of common stock to the Company, or under certain circumstances, the Company may be required to deliver shares of its common stock or may elect to make a cash payment to the third party financial institution. Since August 2011, the Company has repurchased $1.48 billion in common stock, or 124 million shares, under its $1.5 billion share repurchase authorization.

Fleet

During first quarter 2014, the Company’s fleet was reduced by five to 676 aircraft at period end. This reflects the first quarter 2014 delivery of two new Boeing 737-800s and six pre-owned Boeing 737-700s, as well as the retirement of one Boeing 737-300. In addition, the Company removed 12 Boeing 717-200s from service during first quarter 2014 in preparation for transition. Additional information regarding the Company’s aircraft delivery schedule is included in the accompanying tables.

Read the analysis by Bloomberg Businessweek: CLICK HERE

Top Copyright Photo: Brian McDonough/AirlinersGallery.com. Southwest’s Boeing 737-7H4 N214WN (msn 32486) completes its final turn on the river approach into Washington’s Reagan National Airport (DCA).

Southwest Airlines:

AirTran Airways:

Bottom Copyright Photo: Ton Jochems/AirlinersGallery.com. AirTran’s Boeing 737-7BD N315AT (msn 35788) completes its final approach to the runway at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Southwest Airlines and AirTran Airways flight attendants reach a tentative agreement

Southwest Airlines (LUV) has announced the flight attendants from AirTran Airways (Dallas), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Southwest Airlines Company, have reached a tentative agreement on the collective bargaining agreement that became amendable in May 2013. AirTran flight attendants are represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA). This tentative agreement still requires membership ratification.

The parties have been in discussions since February 2013 on an agreement that would serve as a bridge for the AirTran flight attendants until they ultimately transition to Southwest Airlines. To date, more than 400 flight attendants have made the transition, while approximately 1,700 flight attendants remain in the AirTran partition. Southwest Airlines finalized the closing of the acquisition of AirTran Holdings, Inc., on May 2, 2011.

Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing/AirlinersGallery.com. The AirTran Boeing 737-700 fleet is also gradually transitioning to Southwest. The pictured 737-76N N279AT (msn 32666) is now N7719A with Southwest.

AirTran Airways:

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Southwest Airlines:

Southwest Airlines reports a net profit of $224 million in the second quarter, removes the first AirTran Boeing 717

Southwest Airlines Company (Dallas) today reported its second quarter 2013 results. Second quarter 2013 net income was $224 million, or $.31 per diluted share, which included $50 million (net) of unfavorable special items. This compared to net income of $228 million, or $.30 per diluted share, in second quarter 2012, which included $45 million (net) of unfavorable special items. Excluding special items, second quarter 2013 net income was a record $274 million, or $.38 per diluted share, compared to $273 million, or $.36 per diluted share, in second quarter 2012. This was in line with the First Call consensus estimate of $.38 per diluted share. Additional information regarding special items is included in this release and in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are pleased to report record quarterly earnings of $274 million (excluding special items). This performance benefited from all-time high operating revenues and lower fuel prices. In addition, our focus on managing costs resulted in modest year-over-year cost inflation despite significant investments in fleet modernization and other strategic initiatives. I commend our hard-working and dedicated Employees for their efforts to achieve these excellent results, while simultaneously executing on our strategic initiatives.

“While the lingering effects of government sequestration and higher taxes continued to be a drag on air travel demand, second quarter 2013 revenues and passenger traffic still reached record levels. In addition, we are in the midst of integrating AirTran, launching new city-pairs, and optimizing the combined networks. We maintained strong load factors and ended the quarter with a record June load factor of 85.0 percent, which is notable considering the increasing mix of larger gauge 737-800s and Evolve -700s. Although the 2.4 percent year-over-year decline in second quarter unit revenues was below plan¹, results improved throughout the quarter. Third quarter 2013 revenue trends are encouraging, thus far. To date, July unit revenues are approximately three percent above last year’s July, benefiting from Southwest and AirTran network connections and our gradual combined network optimization. Current bookings for the remainder of the third quarter also look solid.

“We remain on track with our plan to fully integrate AirTran into Southwest Airlines by the end of 2014. We are on schedule to complete the conversion of AirTran’s Boeing 737-700s to the Southwest livery and deploy the Southwest international reservation system next year. During second quarter, we transitioned one -700, bringing total aircraft conversions to 12 since the acquisition. Seven more -700 conversions are planned for this year, with the remaining 33 planned for next year in conjunction with the conversion of AirTran’s eight international markets. We will be transitioning AirTran’s 88 Boeing 717-200s out of the fleet, beginning next month.

“Connecting the Southwest and AirTran networks was a key milestone this quarter. As of April 14, Customers can now fly across our combined 97 destinations on a single itinerary. Our ability to optimize the combined networks and operations is enhanced significantly with connecting capabilities as we continue to transition AirTran markets to the Southwest network. Earlier this week, we extended our 2014 flight schedule through early March and announced new Southwest service between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, beginning in February, which will augment AirTran’s five daily nonstop flights. During second quarter 2013, Southwest launched new service to Charlotte, North Carolina; Flint, Michigan; Portland, Maine; Rochester, New York; and Wichita, Kansas, which were all AirTran cities. We also began operating Southwest’s first scheduled service outside of the continental United States, with daily service to San Juan, Puerto Rico, beginning April 14^th. By the end of 2013, we will have a Southwest presence in all AirTran domestic cities retained following the acquisition. While much of the converted capacity represents new city-pairs, we expect these new routes to develop rapidly. Our Cargo business also benefited from connecting the networks, coincident with the April 14^th launch of cargo on AirTran under the Southwest brand.

“We are excited about our future network opportunities as we add international capabilities and continue the development of our domestic route network. We were thrilled to be awarded the slot exemption from the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin service between Houston Hobby and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport next month. The introduction of this daily Southwest service will complete a triad of nonstop service options between Hobby and the Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C. metro areas.

“We continue to make progress on our fleet modernization efforts. During second quarter, we added three new Boeing 737-800s into service and retired two Boeing 737-300s. We also removed the first AirTran 717 from active service during the quarter in preparation for its transition out of the fleet next month. As of June 30, 2013, all Southwest Boeing 737-700s and 14 Boeing 737-300s have been retrofitted with the Evolve interior, and we plan to retrofit 64 additional -300s in the second half of this year. In May, we announced revisions to our future aircraft delivery schedule, including the launch of the Boeing 737 MAX 7 in 2019, with three objectives in mind: efficiently and aggressively manage our invested capital, shift the mix of new aircraft deliveries to the MAX, and replace Boeing 717s and Boeing 737s being retired over the next three years with more economical aircraft. This includes augmenting our Boeing orders with the acquisition of pre-owned aircraft. In line with our plan, available seat miles (capacity) for 2013 are estimated to increase two percent year-over-year as a result of larger gauge aircraft. For 2014, we currently plan to keep our capacity in line with 2013 as we continue to optimize our network and execute our strategic plan.

“Our fleet modernization and other fuel conservation efforts resulted in a 4.1 percent improvement in second quarter available seat miles per gallon. Second quarter economic fuel costs declined significantly to $3.06 per gallon, as expected, compared to second quarter 2012’s $3.22 per gallon. Based on our fuel derivative contracts and market prices as of July 22, third quarter 2013 economic fuel costs are expected to be in the $3.05 to $3.10 per gallon range, which is below third quarter 2012’s $3.16 per gallon.

“Our second quarter unit costs, excluding fuel, special items, and profitsharing, increased 1.7 percent, compared to second quarter last year. Based on current trends and benefits from our fleet modernization efforts, we expect our third quarter 2013 unit costs, excluding fuel, special items, and profitsharing, to increase slightly from third quarter 2012’s 7.72 cents.

“Our balance sheet and liquidity remain strong with approximately $3.7 billion in cash and short-term investments, as of yesterday, and a $1 billion fully available revolving credit facility. Our second quarter cash flow from operations was $778 million, and capital expenditures were $193 million, resulting in $585 million in free cash flow². Our strong cash flow generation and record second quarter profits (excluding special items) reinforce the Board’s authorizations in May 2013 to increase our stock repurchase program from $1 billion to $1.5 billion, along with quadrupling our quarterly dividend to an estimated 1.2 percent annual yield (based on yesterday’s closing stock price of $13.76). During second quarter 2013, we returned approximately $279 million to our Shareholders through the payment of $28 million in dividends and the repurchase of approximately $251 million, or approximately 18 million shares, under an accelerated stock repurchase program completed in June. Since August 2011, we have repurchased approximately $975 million, or approximately 100 million shares, under our total $1.5 billion share repurchase authorization.”

Financial Results

The Company’s second quarter 2013 total operating revenues increased 0.6 percent to $4.6 billion, while operating unit revenues decreased 2.4 percent, on a 3.0 percent increase in available seat miles, and approximately four percent increase in average seats per trip, all as compared to second quarter 2012. Total operating expenses in second quarter 2013 increased 1.3 percent to $4.2 billion, as compared to second quarter 2012. The Company incurred costs (before taxes) associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, which are special items, of $26 million during second quarter 2013, compared to $11 million in second quarter 2012. Cumulative costs associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, as of June 30, 2013, totaled $363 million (before profitsharing and taxes). The Company expects total acquisition and integration costs to be no more than $550 million (before profitsharing and taxes). Excluding special items in both periods, total operating expenses in second quarter 2013 were $4.2 billion, compared to $4.1 billion in second quarter 2012.

Second quarter 2013 economic fuel costs were $3.06 per gallon, including $.05 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements for fuel derivative contracts, compared to $3.22 per gallon in second quarter 2012, including $.04 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements for fuel derivative contracts. The Company has derivative contracts in place for approximately 80 and 85 percent of its estimated fuel consumption in the third and fourth quarters of 2013, respectively. As of July 22^nd, the fair market value of the Company’s hedge portfolio through 2017 was a net asset of approximately $102 million. Additional information regarding the Company’s fuel derivative contracts is included in the accompanying tables.

Excluding fuel, special items, and profitsharing in both periods, second quarter 2013 operating costs increased 0.7 percent from second quarter 2012, and 1.7 percent on a unit basis.

Operating income for second quarter 2013 was $433 million, compared to $460 million in second quarter 2012. Excluding special items, operating income was $479 million for second quarter 2013, compared to $485 million in the same period last year.

Other expenses for second quarter 2013 were $70 million, compared to $92 million in second quarter 2012. This $22 million decrease primarily resulted from $47 million in other losses recognized in second quarter 2013, compared to $62 million in second quarter 2012. In both periods, these losses primarily resulted from unrealized mark-to-market gains/losses associated with a portion of the Company’s fuel hedging portfolio, which are special items. Excluding these special items, other losses were $12 million in second quarter 2013, compared to $14 million in second quarter 2012, primarily attributable to the premium costs associated with the Company’s fuel derivative contracts. Third quarter 2013 premium costs related to fuel derivative contracts are currently estimated to be approximately $22 million, compared to $15 million in third quarter 2012. Net interest expense declined to $23 million in second quarter 2013, compared to $30 million in second quarter 2012, primarily due to the repayment of AirTran aircraft financing facilities during the first quarter of 2013.

For the six months ended June 30, 2013, total operating revenues increased 1.4 percent to $8.7 billion, while total operating expenses increased 1.2 percent to $8.2 billion, resulting in operating income of $503 million, compared to $481 million for the same period last year. Excluding special items, operating income was $591 million for first half 2013, compared to $495 million for first half 2012.

Net income for first half 2013 was $283 million, or $.39 per diluted share, compared to $327 million, or $.43 per diluted share, for the same period last year. Excluding special items, net income for first half 2013 was $328 million, or a record $.45 per diluted share, compared to $255 million, or $.33 per diluted share, for the same period last year.

The Company’s return on invested capital (before taxes and excluding special items) was approximately nine percent for the twelve months ended June 30, 2013. Additional information regarding pre-tax return on invested capital is included in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

For the six months ended June 30, 2013, net cash provided by operations was $1.8 billion, and capital expenditures were $727 million, resulting in free cash flow² in excess of $1 billion. The Company repaid $216 million in debt and capital lease obligations during first half 2013, and intends to repay approximately $100 million more in debt and capital lease obligations during the remainder of the year.

Copyright Photo: Brian McDonough/AirlinersGallery.com. A beautiful banking shot of Boeing 737-8H4 WL N8322X (msn 36997) completing the River Approach into Washington’s Reagan National Airport (please click on the photo for the full-size view).

Southwest Airlines:

Southwest reports 1Q net profit of $59 million, establishes a “No Show” policy

Southwest Airlines Company (Southwest Airlines) (Dallas) today reported its first quarter 2013 results. First quarter 2013 net income was $59 million, or $.08 per diluted share, which included $6 million (net) of favorable special items. This compared to net income of $98 million, or $.13 per diluted share, in first quarter 2012, which included $116 million (net) of favorable special items. Excluding special items, first quarter 2013 net income was $53 million, or $.07 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $18 million, or $.02 loss per diluted share, in first quarter 2012. This exceeded the First Call consensus estimate of $.02 per diluted share. Operating income for first quarter 2013 was $70 million, compared to $22 million in first quarter 2012. Excluding special items, operating income was $112 million for first quarter 2013, compared to $10 million in the same period last year. Additional information regarding special items is included in this release and in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “The significant year-over-year improvement in our first quarter results (excluding special items) was driven by record first quarter revenues and a better-than-expected cost performance. On relatively flat available seat miles year-over-year, total operating revenues of $4.1 billion increased 2.3 percent, or 1.8 percent on a unit basis, compared to first quarter last year. Passenger revenues were boosted significantly by continued progress on the AirTran integration, fleet modernization efforts, and the Rapid Rewards loyalty program. Year-over-year passenger unit revenue trends were relatively stable through February, and while worse than expected, March passenger unit revenues outperformed the domestic industry, on a capacity adjusted basis. Soft revenue trends have continued, thus far, in April, and we expect a year-over-year decline in our April passenger unit revenues. While we are cautious about April trends and the potential effects from government sequestration, recent bookings for May and June have been solid, and lower fuel prices have roughly offset the revenue weakness thus far in April.

“Based on market prices as of April 22^nd, second quarter 2013 economic fuel costs, including fuel taxes, are expected to be in the $3.00 to $3.05 per gallon range, well below second quarter 2012’s $3.22 per gallon, including fuel taxes, and below the original forecast included in our 2013 plan¹. Also, we now have derivative contracts in place for the remainder of the year that support estimated fuel costs per gallon below our 2013 plan. First quarter 2013 economic fuel costs were $3.29 per gallon, which was in line with our expectation, and 4.4 percent lower than first quarter 2012’s all-time high $3.44 per gallon.

“We are pleased with the early results from revenue initiatives implemented in first quarter 2013 and are excited about the incremental benefit expected for future periods. We launched some of our new 2013 ancillary revenue streams, including selling open premium boarding positions at the gate, increasing our EarlyBird Check-In™ charge, and increasing certain other fees.

“We also phased in the ability for our Customers to fly connecting itineraries between the Southwest and AirTran networks, our top priority this year. As of April 14^th, all 97 destinations within the combined networks can be flown on a single itinerary, a key milestone of our AirTran integration. Bookings on these connecting itineraries, thus far, have been strong, giving us further confidence in our plan to achieve $400 million in net, pre-tax, AirTran synergies in 2013 (excluding acquisition and integration costs). With connecting capabilities in place, our ability to optimize the combined networks and operations is enabled, particularly in Atlanta. This is a significant milestone. We are now in a position to evolve Atlanta to a point-to-point operation in fall 2013, similar to our other top ten Southwest cities. This will allow our People to be substantially more productive through scheduling our aircraft, flight crews, and ground staff more constantly throughout the day. Our November schedule (which will open next month) will offer our Atlanta Customers a wider selection of departure times throughout the day, with roughly the same number of daily departures. We expect these changes will grow our local Atlanta traffic.

“We are enthused about planned initiatives for the remainder of the year. Today, we are announcing details of a new No Show policy that will apply to Southwest reservations that include Wanna Get Away^® or DING!^® fares and are made on or after May 10, 2013, for travel on or after September 13, 2013. The policy is intended to alter behavior, encouraging Customers to cancel unused nonrefundable fares prior to a flight’s departure, allowing us to better predict future inventory and reduce the number of empty seats on aircraft. Also, later this quarter, we will implement phase one of our new revenue management system.

“While we continue to optimize our network and maintain a relatively flat fleet in 2013, we are also making excellent progress on our fleet modernization efforts. Thus far this year, we have taken delivery of nine new Boeing 737-800s and two used Boeing 737-700s, retired three older Boeing 737-300s and one Boeing 737-500, and retrofitted more -700s with our new Evolve interior. As of
March 31, 2013, nearly 90 percent of the Southwest -700 fleet had the Evolve interior, and we expect to complete the remainder of the Southwest -700 retrofits in second quarter 2013. Further, all of Southwest’s -800s and -700s are now equipped with WiFi technology.

“We began operating Southwest’s first scheduled service outside of the continental United States on April 14^th, with daily service to San Juan, Puerto Rico, from Orlando and Tampa Bay, Florida. These flights augment AirTran’s existing service between San Juan and Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore/Washington; and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Since the beginning of the year, Southwest has also launched service to Branson, Missouri; Charlotte, North Carolina; Flint, Michigan; Portland, Maine; and Rochester, New York. We are excited about our growing network and opportunities ahead. Further, as part of the Dallas Love Field Modernization project, we reached a significant milestone at our hometown airport with the opening of 11 brand new Southwest gates and new concessions on April 16^th. This impressive project is on budget and on track for full completion in second half 2014.

“Our balance sheet and liquidity remain strong with approximately $3.1 billion in cash and short-term investments at March 31, 2013. Earlier this month, we replaced our $800 million revolving credit facility with a new $1 billion five-year revolving credit facility. The $200 million increase enhances our liquidity and financial flexibility. Despite the uncertainties surrounding the impact to travel demand from government sequestration and increased consumer taxes, we remain focused on our 2013 plan to achieve a 15 percent pre-tax return on invested capital. In first quarter, we returned $115 million to our Shareholders through repurchasing $100 million of common stock (approximately 9 million shares) and distributing $15 million in dividends.”

No Show Policy

Southwest is implementing a No Show policy that applies to nonrefundable fares that are not canceled or changed by a Customer prior to a flight’s scheduled departure. If a Customer has booked a nonrefundable fare anywhere in his/her itinerary and that portion of the flight is not used and not canceled or changed by the Customer prior to scheduled departure, all unused funds on the full itinerary will be lost, and the remaining reservation will be canceled. The policy applies to reservations made or changed on or after Friday, May 10, 2013, for travel on or after Friday, September 13, 2013. This policy does not apply to military fares, senior fares, or travel during certain irregular operations, including severe weather conditions.

The No Show policy will not impact Customers who simply cancel a Wanna Get Away or DING! fare prior to scheduled departure; in this case, Customers may reuse their funds toward future travel on Southwest, without a change fee, as they have always done. Customers who are traveling on a fully refundable itinerary that does not contain a Wanna Get Away or DING! fare will continue to have the option of either requesting a refund or holding funds for future travel.

Financial Results and Outlook

The Company’s total operating revenues in first quarter 2013 were $4.1 billion, compared to $4.0 billion in first quarter 2012. Operating unit revenues increased 1.8 percent from first quarter 2012. Total first quarter 2013 operating expenses of $4.0 billion were comparable to first quarter 2012. The Company incurred $13 million in special charges (before taxes) during the first quarters of 2013 and 2012 associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran. Cumulative costs associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, as of March 31, 2013, totaled $337 million (before profitsharing and taxes). The Company expects total acquisition and integration costs to be no more than $550 million (before profitsharing and taxes). Excluding special items in the first quarters of 2013 and 2012, operating expenses were approximately $4.0 billion in both periods.

First quarter 2013 economic fuel costs, including fuel taxes, decreased 4.4 percent to $3.29 per gallon, compared to $3.44 per gallon in first quarter 2012. The Company now has derivative contracts in place for approximately 95 percent of its estimated fuel consumption for the remainder of the year. As of April 22^nd, the fair market value of the Company’s hedge portfolio through 2017 was a net liability of approximately $151 million, compared to a net asset of $200 million at March 31^st. Additional information regarding the Company’s fuel derivative contracts is included in the accompanying tables.

First quarter 2013 profitsharing expense was $15 million, compared to no profitsharing expense in first quarter last year. Excluding fuel, profitsharing, and special items in both periods, first quarter 2013 unit costs increased 2.8 percent from first quarter 2012, which was better than expected largely due to lower workers’ compensation claims, favorable airport settlements, and lower advertising expense. Based on current cost trends, the Company expects a similar year-over-year increase in its second quarter 2013 unit costs, excluding fuel, profitsharing, and special items in both periods.

Operating income for first quarter 2013 was $70 million, compared to $22 million in first quarter 2012. Excluding special items, operating income was $112 million for first quarter 2013, compared to $10 million in first quarter 2012.

Other income for first quarter 2013 was $24 million, compared to $137 million in first quarter 2012. This $113 million decrease primarily resulted from $46 million in gains recognized in first quarter 2013, compared to $170 million in gains in first quarter 2012. In both periods, these gains primarily resulted from unrealized mark-to-market gains/losses associated with a portion of the Company’s fuel hedging portfolio, which are special items. Excluding these special items, other losses were $5 million in first quarter 2013, compared to $6 million in first quarter 2012, primarily attributable to the premium costs associated with the Company’s fuel derivative contracts. Second quarter 2013 premium costs related to fuel derivative contracts are currently estimated to be approximately $12 million, which is comparable to second quarter 2012. Net interest expense declined to $22 million in first quarter 2013, compared to $33 million in first quarter 2012, primarily as a result of the Company’s repayment of its $385 million 6.5 percent notes in March 2012.

Net cash provided by operations was $983 million, and capital expenditures were $534 million, resulting in $449 million in free cash flow² in first quarter 2013. The Company repaid approximately $164 million in debt and capital lease obligations during first quarter 2013, and intends to repay approximately $149 million in debt and capital lease obligations during the remainder of the year. As of April 23^rd, the Company had approximately $3.2 billion in cash and short-term investments, and a fully available unsecured revolving credit line of $1 billion.

The Company’s return on invested capital (before taxes and excluding special items) was approximately 8 percent for the twelve months ended March 31, 2013. Additional information regarding pre-tax return on invested capital is included in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

Southwest Airlines Awards and Recognitions

Named seventh Most Admired Company in the world by FORTUNE Magazine
Recognized as the top travel brand and fifth overall brand by The Business Journals in the American Brand Excellence Awards
Named Domestic Carrier of the Year by the Airforwarders Association
Named to the Airline of the Year list by the Express Delivery and Logistics Association
Awarded the Air Cargo Excellence Diamond Award by Air Cargo World
Named number one in Customer Service by the 2013 Airline Quality Ratings
Recognized as one of the 2013 100 Best Corporate Citizens by CR Magazine
Awarded the Grassroots Innovation Award for the Free Hobby Campaign by the Public Affairs Council

Copyright Photo: Brian McDonough/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 737-7H4 WL N240WN (msn 32503) with “Live in the Vineyard” promotional decal arrives at Baltimore/Washington.

Southwest Airlines:

Southwest Airlines achieves its 40th consecutive year of profitability

Southwest Airlines Company (Southwest Airlines and AirTran Airways) (Dallas) today reported its fourth quarter and full year 2012 results. Fourth quarter 2012 net income was $78 million, or $.11 per diluted share, which included $13 million (net) of favorable special items. This compared to net income of $152 million, or $.20 per diluted share, in fourth quarter 2011, which included $86 million (net) of favorable special items. Excluding special items, fourth quarter 2012 net income was $65 million, or $.09 per diluted share, which was comparable to fourth quarter 2011. This exceeded the First Call consensus estimate of $.08 per diluted share. Additional information regarding special items is included in this release and in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

For the full year of 2012, net income was $421 million, or $.56 per diluted share, which included $4 million (net) of favorable special items. This compared to $178 million, or $.23 per diluted share, in full year 2011, which included $152 million (net) of unfavorable special items. Excluding special items, full year 2012 net income was $417 million, or $.56 per diluted share, compared to net income of $330 million, or $.43 per diluted share, for full year 2011. Operating income for full year 2012 was $623 million, compared to $693 million for full year 2011. Excluding special items, operating income for full year 2012 was $838 million, which was comparable to full year 2011.

Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “2012 was a year of tremendous progress. Our profits (excluding special items) of $417 million grew 26 percent as compared to 2011 and represented our 40^th consecutive year of profitability. Without a doubt, this is a remarkable feat and a record unmatched in the airline industry. These solid earnings were achieved despite significant efforts and costs related to critical strategic initiatives. I expect these initiatives to produce substantial returns over the next several years. For 2012, these initiatives contributed to the 49 percent surge in our cash flow from operations to $2.1 billion. We ended the year with fourth quarter profits (excluding special items) of $65 million, which was in line with our year ago performance.

“I was very pleased with our operational performance for the year and our Customer Service delivery. Both were exceptional, especially considering the amount of work involved with our initiatives. I am deeply grateful to all of our People for their extraordinary efforts and a truly remarkable year.

“Our fourth quarter 2012 operating revenues were a fourth quarter record $4.2 billion, bringing full year 2012 operating revenues to more than $17 billion. Our strong fourth quarter 2012 operating revenue performance was driven by record yields, continued high load factors, and an impressive freight revenue performance. As with the full year profits, these strong revenues were achieved despite the transitional state of the AirTran route network. While there was much change in 2012, significant optimization efforts are planned in 2013 for the AirTran network. As we enter 2013, bookings and revenue trends, thus far, suggest a year-over-year improvement in January 2013 passenger unit revenues in the two to three percent range. While the effect of U.S. tax increases on the domestic economy remains uncertain, bookings for the remainder of first quarter, thus far, are strong.

“Our economic fuel costs, including fuel taxes, were $3.32 per gallon for fourth quarter 2012, and $3.28 per gallon for full year 2012, compared to $3.29 per gallon and $3.19 per gallon for the respective year-ago periods. Based on market prices as of January 18^th, our first quarter 2013 economic fuel costs, including fuel taxes, are estimated to be approximately $3.30 per gallon, as compared to $3.44 per gallon for first quarter 2012. While current fuel price levels are very high, the year-over-year decline estimated for first quarter 2013 economic fuel costs is an encouraging trend.

“As expected, our fourth quarter 2012 unit costs, excluding fuel, profitsharing, and special items, increased 5.8 percent, as compared to fourth quarter 2011. While we expect a similar trend in first quarter 2013, year-over-year unit cost inflation, excluding fuel, profitsharing, and special items, is expected to significantly ease for full year 2013 as we complete our Evolve interior cabin retrofits and begin to more fully realize benefits from our fleet modernization efforts.

“While we continue to transform our Company with a bold five-year strategic plan that began in 2011, we remain committed to the pillars of our success—outstanding Customer Service; safe, reliable, and efficient operations; and low costs. We are on track with our plan to fully integrate AirTran into Southwest Airlines by the end of 2014. We realized $142 million of net, annualized, pre-tax synergies during 2012, and we expect to achieve our $400 million target in 2013 (excluding acquisition and integration expenses). This month, we are on track to begin testing connecting itineraries between the Southwest and AirTran networks in a handful of markets, with significant offerings planned in February and more in March. Once fully implemented in April, we expect the connected networks to contribute incremental revenue in 2013 and provide significant opportunities to optimize the combined network. Our fleet modernization initiatives are on schedule with 259 Southwest 737-700 aircraft retrofitted with our new 143-seat Evolve cabin. We expect to have all 372 of Southwest’s 737-700 aircraft retrofitted with Evolve by June and 78 of our 737-300 aircraft retrofitted by the end of 2013. We currently have 34 737-800s in our fleet with plans to grow to 54 this year and 78 next year. We have equipped 400 Southwest aircraft with Row 44 WiFi technology, providing our Customers access to satellite-based WiFi and live television. We intend to significantly grow our inflight entertainment offerings in 2013. We are thrilled with the Customer feedback and incremental revenue generated from our All-New Rapid Rewards frequent flyer program that was installed in 2011. Our international reservation system implementation is on track for 2014, and we continue to make great progress on implementing our new revenue management program in 2013. Also, we’ve announced new 2013 revenue streams: selling open A1 through A15 premium boarding positions and a new service charge for reuse of funds associated with restricted tickets that are not canceled (or changed) prior to departure. Collectively, we expect our strategic initiatives and new revenue streams to contribute the majority of the planned $1.1 billion year-over-year revenue increase in 2013. I am enthused about our 2013 plan and believe our transformation efforts will make us better, stronger, and more competitive.

“Our financial position remains strong with $3 billion in cash and short term investments. We generated $716 million in free cash flow* during 2012, and we expect healthy free cash flow* in 2013. We remain focused on enhancing Shareholder value through capital efficiency and our targeted 15 percent pretax return on invested capital.

“We believe in our strategic plan. And, the outstanding efforts, commitment, and dedication of our People exhibited in 2012 gives me confidence in our ability to successfully execute this plan. The year 2012 was a year of dramatic accomplishments that I believe positions us to be stronger than ever.”

Notable 2012 accomplishments for Southwest Airlines include:

40^th consecutive year of profitability
83.1 percent Ontime Performance
Recognized with numerous awards and recognitions, most notably being named Customer Service Champions by JD Powers, included in the 2012 Customer Service Hall of Fame by MSN Money, and named one of America’s Top 500 Companies by Barrons
Received Single Operating Certificate in March 2012; ten months after AirTran acquisition close
Launched 737-800 operations in March (34 aircraft currently in service)
Converted 259 Southwest 737-700s to new 143-seat Evolve configuration (including progress thus far in 2013)
Continued equipping aircraft with satellite-based WiFi technology, reaching the 400^thinstallation in January 2013 (including AirTran conversions)
Earned flag status and began selling service to Puerto Rico (to be launched April 2013)
Launched Southwest service to Atlanta, Akron-Canton, and Dayton
Received slots at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and began service
Launched AirTran service to Austin, Orange County, Mexico City, and Cabo San Lucas
Discontinued AirTran service to 14 airports
Resolved all seniority list integrations
Converted 11 AirTran 737-700s to the Southwest livery with Evolve configuration
Converted four AirTran stations to Southwest: Seattle, Dulles, Des Moines, and Key West
Announced plans to convert seven more AirTran stations in 2013: Phoenix, Branson, Charlotte, Flint, Portland (Maine), Rochester, and Wichita
Converted 26 percent of the AirTran workforce to Southwest
Harmonized all Customer policies between Southwest & AirTran
Opened new Pilot and Flight Attendant crew bases at Denver International Airport
Selected Amadeus for International Reservation system for 2014 implementation
Completed 717 sublease/lease deal with Delta
Received Houston City Council approval for Hobby international terminal
Deferred $1 billion in capital spending
Returned $422 million to Shareholders through repurchasing $400 million of common stock (approximately 46 million shares) and distributing $22 million in dividends

Financial Results and Outlook

AirTran Airways, Inc. became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company on May 2, 2011. Results discussed in this release and provided in the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Comparative Consolidated Operating Statistics include the results of operations and cash flows for AirTran beginning May 2, 2011, including the impact of purchase accounting. Full year 2011 results do not include AirTran’s results prior to the acquisition date. However, the Company believes the analysis of specified financial results on a “combined basis” provides more meaningful year-over-year comparability. Full year 2011 financial information presented on a “combined basis” is the sum of the historical financial results of the Company and AirTran for periods prior to the acquisition date, but includes the impact of purchase accounting beginning May 2, 2011. Supplemental financial information presented on a “combined basis” and the accompanying reconciliations are included in this release.

The Company’s total operating revenues in fourth quarter 2012 increased 1.6 percent to $4.2 billion, compared to $4.1 billion in fourth quarter 2011. Operating unit revenues increased 1.9 percent from fourth quarter 2011. Based on current bookings and revenue trends, the Company expects a solid year-over-year increase in its first quarter 2013 unit revenues.

Total fourth quarter 2012 operating expenses were $4.1 billion, compared to $4.0 billion in fourth quarter 2011. Excluding special items in both periods, fourth quarter 2012 operating expenses increased 2.4 percent from fourth quarter 2011.

Fourth quarter 2012 economic fuel costs, including fuel taxes, were $3.32 per gallon, including $.09 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements for fuel derivative contracts, compared to $3.29 per gallon in fourth quarter 2011, including $.12 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements for fuel derivative contracts. Based on market prices as of January 18, 2013, the Company expects first quarter 2013 economic fuel costs, including fuel taxes, to be approximately $3.30 per gallon, including $.05 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements for fuel derivative contracts. First quarter 2013 premium costs related to fuel derivative contracts, recorded in Other (gains) losses, are currently estimated to be approximately $5 million, compared to premium costs of $6 million in first quarter 2012. As of January 18, 2013, the fair market value of the Company’s hedge portfolio through 2017 was a net asset of approximately $216 million, compared to a net asset of approximately $220 million at December 31, 2012. Additional information regarding the Company’s fuel derivative contracts is included in the accompanying tables.

Fourth quarter 2012 profitsharing expense was $19 million, which was comparable to fourth quarter 2011. Excluding fuel, profitsharing, and special items in both periods, fourth quarter 2012 unit costs increased 5.8 percent from fourth quarter 2011. Based on current cost trends, the Company expects a similar year-over-year increase in its first quarter 2013 unit costs, excluding fuel, profitsharing and special items in both periods.

Operating income for fourth quarter 2012 was $91 million, compared to $147 million in fourth quarter 2011. Excluding special items in both periods, operating income was $136 million for fourth quarter 2012, compared to $167 million in fourth quarter 2011. The Company incurred $14 million in special charges (before taxes) during fourth quarter 2012 associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran.

Other income for fourth quarter 2012 was $34 million, compared to $108 million in fourth quarter 2011. This $74 million decrease primarily resulted from $62 million in gains recognized in fourth quarter 2012, compared to $153 million in fourth quarter 2011. In both periods, these gains primarily resulted from unrealized mark to market gains/losses associated with a portion of the Company’s fuel hedging portfolio, which are special items. Excluding these special items, other losses were $3 million in fourth quarter 2012, compared to $15 million in fourth quarter 2011, primarily attributable to the premium costs associated with the Company’s fuel derivative contracts. Net interest expense declined to $28 million in fourth quarter 2012, compared to $45 million in fourth quarter 2011, primarily as a result of the Company’s repayment of its $400 million notes in December 2011 and the redemption of its $385 million notes in March 2012.

Total operating revenues for full year 2012 increased 9.1 percent to $17.1 billion, while total operating expenses increased 10.0 percent to $16.5 billion, resulting in operating income of $623 million, compared to $693 million for full year 2011. For full year 2012, special charges (before taxes) associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran were $183 million, bringing cumulative costs incurred to $324 million (before profitsharing and taxes). The Company expects total acquisition and integration costs will be no more than $550 million. Excluding special items, operating income was $838 million for full year 2012, compared to $839 million for full year 2011. Excluding special items and compared to combined results for the same period in 2011, total operating revenues for full year 2012 increased 3.0 percent, while total operating expenses increased 3.1 percent, resulting in a 0.5 percent increase in operating income for full year 2012.

The Company’s return on invested capital (before taxes and excluding special items) was approximately 7 percent for the year ended December 31, 2012. Additional information regarding pretax return on invested capital is included in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

Net cash provided by operations for full year 2012 was $2.1 billion, and capital expenditures were $1.3 billion. As a result, the Company generated $716 million in free cash flow* in 2012. During 2012, the Company paid $22 million in dividends, which was a 57 percent increase over the year ago period. The Company also repurchased approximately 46 million shares of common stock for approximately $400 million. The Company repaid $578 million in debt and capital lease obligations during 2012, and intends to repay approximately $205 million in debt and capital lease obligations in 2013, including approximately $70 million in first quarter 2013. As of January 23^rd, the Company had approximately $3 billion in cash and short-term investments, and a fully available unsecured revolving credit line of $800 million.

Southwest Airlines Fourth Quarter 2012 Awards and Recognitions

Recognized as one of the 2012 Green Rankings Top 500 US Companies by Newsweek
Named to G.I. Job’s 2013 Top 100 Military Friendly Employers
Ranked first in America’s Happiest Airlines for Holiday Travel by Forbes for the third consecutive year
Recognized with the Employees Choice Awards Best Place to Work 2013 by Glassdoor.com
Named one of the Five Most Likeable Companies of 2012 by Likeable Media
Named one of the National Conference on Citizenship’s The Civic 50 for use of time, talent, and resources in civic engagement

Copyright Photo: Brian McDonough. Boeing 737-8H4 WL N8313F (msn 38810) prepares to touch down at Baltimore/Washington. The airline currently operates 34 737-800s with plans to grow to the 737-800 fleet to 54 this year and 78 next year.

Southwest Airlines:

AirTran Airways:

Southwest Airlines reports net income of $16 million in the third quarter

Southwest Airlines Company (Dallas) today reported its third quarter 2012 results. Third quarter 2012 net income was $16 million, or $.02 per diluted share, which included $81 million (net) of unfavorable special items. This compared to a net loss of $140 million, or $.18 loss per diluted share, in third quarter 2011, which included unfavorable special items totaling $262 million (net). Excluding special items, third quarter 2012 net income was $97 million, or $.13 per diluted share, compared to $122 million, or $.15 per diluted share, in third quarter 2011. This exceeded the First Call consensus estimate of $.12 per diluted share. Operating income for third quarter 2012 was $51 million, compared to $225 million in third quarter 2011. Excluding special items, operating income was $208 million for third quarter 2012, compared to $285 million for the same period last year. Additional information regarding special items is included in this release and in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

Gary C. Kelly, Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “Our third quarter 2012 net income was $97 million, and operating income was $208 million, each excluding special items. Our third quarter 2012 passenger revenues, unit revenues, and load factor were all third-quarter records and meaningful accomplishments; however, we need sustained revenue momentum to achieve our return on invested capital target. And, that is a priority. While in line with the domestic industry, our third quarter 2012 year-over-year unit revenue growth was more sluggish than planned due to weaker demand, particularly in September. While the economy remains a significant concern, we are encouraged, thus far, by October’s bookings and revenue trends. Thus far in October 2012, passenger unit revenues are running ahead of the comparable year ago period by approximately four percent. For next year, we are excited about planned initiatives including the first phase of our new revenue management system.

“We have significant transformation work underway on five key strategic initiatives, and I am proud of our People and their results. The integration of AirTran into Southwest is our top priority and much progress was made in third quarter. We have converted nine AirTran aircraft to the Southwest livery. AirTran’s airport facilities at Seattle and Des Moines have been converted to Southwest; Key West, Florida will be converted next month; and Branson, Missouri is scheduled for March 2013. Our April 2013 schedule, to be published next week, will reflect four more AirTran city conversions at Charlotte, North Carolina; Flint, Michigan; Portland, Maine; and Rochester, New York. During third quarter 2012, AirTran ceased operations at six cities, while Southwest launched new service to Dayton, Akron-Canton, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, which began the integration of AirTran in those cities. We remain on track to launch connection of the two airlines’ networks early next year and significantly optimize the combined networks compared to third quarter 2012. Seniority list integrations for seven of the eight impacted unions have been resolved. We produced approximately $110 million in pre-tax synergies in the first nine months of 2012, and we plan for $400 million in pre-tax synergies in 2013 (excluding acquisition and integration expenses). I am very pleased with the AirTran integration results, thus far, and anticipate significant financial performance improvement from next year’s planned actions.

“Our operating costs grew in the third quarter, but much of the growth was investment related. In particular, we are in the early stages of restructuring and retrofitting our fleet to improve our unit costs and long-term financial performance. This ‘fleet modernization’ effort is one of our strategic initiatives, and it, too, is expected to drive significant financial benefits beginning in 2013. We have retrofitted 147 Southwest 737-700s with our updated cabin interior and plan to complete all 372 -700 retrofits in first half 2013. AirTran’s -700s are receiving the updated interior as the aircraft are converted to the Southwest livery. We have added 26 737-800s to our fleet, with eight more deliveries scheduled for this year. Our near-term plans call for keeping the fleet relatively flat taking into account our aircraft deliveries, 737 Classic retirements, and leases/subleases to Delta. Overall, we anticipate our fleet modernization efforts will significantly benefit pre-tax results in excess of $700 million, annually, once fully implemented in 2015.

“Third quarter 2012 economic fuel costs were $3.16 per gallon, which was in line with third quarter 2011. Crude oil and jet fuel prices have soared over the last several months, and our fourth quarter 2012 economic fuel costs are expected to hit an all-time high $3.45 per gallon (based on market prices as of October 15, 2012). This is disappointing, especially given the weak economy, and we will need to more aggressively control costs in the next year.

“Our liquidity and balance sheet remain strong. As of yesterday, total cash on hand and short-term investments were $3.5 billion, in addition to a fully available unsecured revolving credit line of $800 million. Operating cash flow for the first nine months of this year was approximately $1.8 billion, resulting in strong free cash flow* of nearly $900 million. During that time, we continued to return cash to our Shareholders with the repurchase of approximately 37 million shares of common stock for approximately $325 million and dividends totaling $22 million. We also repaid $517 million of debt and capital lease obligations without refinancing. Our debt levels are modest with debt-to-capital leverage near 40 percent, including off balance sheet aircraft leases. We remain committed to our goals of enhancing Shareholder value, preserving our financial strength, and achieving our 15 percent pre-tax return on invested capital.”

Financial Results and Outlook

AirTran Airways, Inc. became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company on May 2, 2011. Results discussed in this release and provided in the accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and Comparative Consolidated Operating Statistics include the results of operations and cash flows for AirTran beginning May 2, 2011, including the impact of purchase accounting. Year-to-date 2011 results do not include AirTran’s results prior to the acquisition date. However, the Company believes the analysis of specified financial results on a “combined basis” provides more meaningful year-over-year comparability. Year-to-date 2011 financial information presented on a “combined basis” is the sum of the historical financial results of the Company and AirTran for periods prior to the acquisition date, but includes the impact of purchase accounting beginning May 2, 2011. Supplemental financial information presented on a “combined basis” and the accompanying reconciliations are included in this release.

The Company’s total operating revenues in third quarter 2012 of $4.3 billion were comparable to third quarter 2011. Operating unit revenues increased 0.6 percent from third quarter 2011. Based on traffic and revenue trends thus far, the Company currently expects a solid year-over-year increase in operating unit revenues in fourth quarter 2012.

Total third quarter 2012 operating expenses were $4.3 billion, compared to $4.1 billion in third quarter 2011. Excluding special items in both periods, third quarter 2012 operating expenses increased 1.9 percent from third quarter 2011.

Third quarter 2012 economic fuel costs were $3.16 per gallon, including $.03 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements for fuel derivative contracts, compared to $3.18 per gallon in third quarter 2011, including $.02 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements. Based on market prices as of October 15, 2012, the Company expects fourth quarter 2012 economic fuel costs to be approximately $3.45 per gallon, including $.09 per gallon in unfavorable cash settlements for fuel derivative contracts. Fourth quarter 2012 premium costs, recorded in Other (gains) losses, are currently estimated to be approximately $3 million, compared to premium costs of $14 million in fourth quarter 2011 and $36 million in fourth quarter 2010. As of October 15, 2012, the fair market value of the Company’s hedge portfolio through 2016 was a net asset of approximately $196 million, compared to a net asset of approximately $133 million at September 30, 2012, and a net liability of $140 million at June 30, 2012. Additional information regarding the Company’s fuel derivative contracts is included in the accompanying tables.

Excluding fuel, profitsharing, and special items in both periods, third quarter 2012 unit costs increased 6.2 percent from third quarter 2011. Based on current cost trends, the Company expects a similar year-over-year increase in its fourth quarter 2012 unit costs, excluding fuel, profitsharing and special items in both periods. Third quarter 2012 profitsharing expense was $29 million, compared to $36 million in third quarter last year.

Operating income for third quarter 2012 was $51 million, compared to $225 million in third quarter 2011. Excluding special items, operating income was $208 million for third quarter 2012, compared to $285 million in third quarter 2011. The Company incurred $145 million in special charges (before taxes) during third quarter 2012 primarily associated with the Boeing 717 lease/sublease agreement with Delta Air Lines, Inc. and Boeing Capital Corp. Cumulative costs associated with the acquisition and integration of AirTran, as of September 30, 2012, totaled $310 million (before taxes). The Company expects total acquisition and integration costs will be approximately $550 million.

Other expenses for third quarter 2012 were $18 million, compared to $451 million in third quarter 2011. This $433 million decrease primarily resulted from $10 million in other gains recognized in third quarter 2012, compared to $405 million in other losses recognized in third quarter 2011. In both periods, these gains and losses primarily resulted from unrealized mark to market gains/losses associated with a portion of the Company’s fuel hedging portfolio, which are special items. Excluding these special items, other losses were $18 million in third quarter 2012, compared to $36 million in third quarter 2011, primarily attributable to the premium costs associated with the Company’s fuel derivative contracts. Net interest expense declined to $28 million in third quarter 2012, compared to $46 million in third quarter 2011, primarily as a result of the Company’s repayment of its $400 million notes in December 2011 and the redemption of its $385 million notes in March 2012.

Total operating revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 increased 11.8 percent year-over-year to $12.9 billion, while total operating expenses increased 12.5 percent year-over-year to $12.4 billion, resulting in operating income in the nine months ended September 30, 2012 of $532 million, versus $546 million for the same period last year. Excluding special items, operating income was $702 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, compared to $672 million for the same period last year. Excluding special items and compared to combined results for the same period last year, total operating revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 increased 3.4 percent, while total operating expenses increased 3.3 percent, resulting in a 5.2 percent increase in operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

Net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $343 million, or $.45 per diluted share, compared to $26 million, or $.03 per diluted share, for the same period last year. Excluding special items, net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $352 million, or $.46 per diluted share, compared to $263 million, or $.34 per diluted share, for the same period last year.

The Company’s return on invested capital (before taxes and excluding special items) was approximately seven percent for the twelve months ended September 30, 2012. Additional information regarding pre-tax return on invested capital is included in the accompanying reconciliation tables.

Copyright Photo: Tony Storck. Boeing 737-7H4 N912WN (msn 36621) of Southwest Airlines arrives at Baltimore/Washington. The airliner wears special “Tinker Bell – Powered by Pixie Dust” markings.

Southwest Airlines: