Airline and Airport Choice by Passengers in Multi-Airport Regions: The Effect of Southwest Airlines∗

Abstract

The business strategy of Southwest Airlines (SWA) features low fares and direct flights between major cities. To minimize aircraft turnaround times, SWA favors smaller, urban-fringe airports over larger, more congested airports. We surveyed passengers flying to the multi-airport regions of Boston–Providence and Baltimore–Washington to assess how many and what types of passengers choose their less convenient airport and why. Maps of final destinations illustrate a reverse traffic shadow favoring smaller airports served by SWA. Motives for choosing less convenient airports include cheaper fares, fewer delays, and easier ground transport. Logit analysis confirms that leisure travel, traveling with family, and frequent flyer membership significantly affect the choice of a less convenient airport.

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