You're Gonna Make it After All!!!

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Wed, 10/01/2008 - 15:03 — Bill Owen

Today Southwest announced our plans to add the 65th city to our network next March, and it’s one we have been asked about, often, for many years.

Twin Cities—get ready to fall in LUV!

Southwest plans to establish a “No Hidden Fees” zone at the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport in March 2009, bringing Low Fares and excellent Customer Service to the land of 10,000 lakes. We’ll be giving the “Freedom To Fly” to folks flying to or from the home of the Twins. And the Vikings. And, of course, the home of Mary, Rhoda, Lou, Ted, and Murray (“Who can turn the world on with her smile?” Any female Southwest Airlines Employee, of course…and, ya, you betcha, so can the guys!). Trivia question: where did they film the iconic scene from the opening title sequence of the "Mary Tyler Moore Show" where a twirling Mary Richards tosses her Tam O’Shanter into the air? That would be the intersection of 7th and Nicollet, in downtown Minneapolis.

We’re excited to be adding Minneapolis/St. Paul to the Southwest route system for lots of reasons. Some are all business—the area has a booming economy, and it complements our existing network beautifully. Other reasons are all pleasure—the beautiful lakes and woods, the Mall of America, the incredible arts scene, the St. Paul Ice Festival (and I have to admit, it was news to this Texas boy that you can have FUN with ICE!), and so many other wonderful activities. But the biggest reason we’re excited, and able, to finally add MSP to our system is that you guys—our Customers and our Employees—have told us that it’s time.

We will announce the details--the flight schedule, the fares, and the start date—in the not-too-distant future. I’ll make sure to give you guys a heads-up here on “Nuts About Southwest” when we do. And what’s next?

I’ll never tell. *wink*

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Comments

Lindbergh Terminal or Humphrey, just out of curiosity?

This is great! I hate having to fly a different airline between Boston/Providence and Minneapolis when I go home to visit my parents.

kajivar — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 15:19

I am so excited to hear this! I am from northern Minnesota and now I will be able to fly from the Lone Star State to Minnesota on Southwest finally. I know it has been years in the making. Thanks for making it happen Southwest!!!

Brad — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 15:19

Please consider Northwest's other hubs also. There's another one halfway between two Southwest cities that would love any kind of non-legacy presence.

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 15:40

Atlanta next! ...Preferably with a nonstop to Providence ;-)

Rick — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 15:41

I flew Southwest when they had three (3) planes in Texas. I have waited 30 years to see
real competition appear at Wold Chamberlain field, now known as MSP. The only problem
for SWA is the weather. SWA likes fair weather and MSP is not the best airport for weather
We wish them well and look forward to improved service and competitiveness at MSP

luvswairlines — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 15:54

Hooray! Now that ends the speculation of what is the next new LUV market! I can't wait to see what unrolls.

With Porter Airlines coming to MDW, will Southwest partner with them as well to Canada?

Oliver — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 16:08

This is fantastic... We moved from MN to Phoenix 6 years ago. Since then, I have been won over by Southwest's fantastic service and flexibility. I travel weekly for business on Southwest. However, I could not get that great service going back to visit my family in MN. Now I will have a great destination to use my Rapid Rewards.

Thank you Southwest

A-lister — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 16:09

Seems like a logical play for Southwest. With the impending DL/NW merger Delta won't be nearly as aggressive in defending the MSP hub as NW would've been on their own. This is actually a great way for DL to scale back service there and let Southwest in without too much trouble. Seems like a win for everyone involved.

The snow can be bad at times, but the airport is among the best and handling snow that I've ever seen; I think that Southwest will manage OK despite the weather issues.
http://www.wanderingaramean.com/2008/10/southwest-to-attack-northwest-at...

www.wanderingaramean.com — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 16:18

www.wanderingaramean.com — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 16:19

Wow!! You guys are fast!

kajivar, yes, we will be serving the Humphrey Terminal (which, BTW, is the closest airport station on the Hiawatha light-rail station to the Mall Of America!).

luvswairlines, don't forget all of the other airports Southwest serves that have difficult climates for airline operations. Buffalo--Chicago--Manchester--the Gulf Coast--all have their moments, and we're doing okay there!

Bill

Bill Owen — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 06:20

Great decission. Count me in or aboard!

Dan — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 16:49

I'm just thrilled!!! Keep up the good work!!! I'm guessing that one of the inagural flights will be to Saint Louis; it just seems to make a lot of economic sense to me. But that's just my guess.

Micah M. — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 16:54

Awesome! I'm originally from Minneapolis and still have strong ties there, but I've been going to school in Arizona for over three years now. Of course Southwest is really strong here in Phoenix and I might be the only one of my Arizona friends who has never been able to fly on Southwest, and now I'll finally be able to! I hope I can give you a try over Easter. Of course it will be a connection through Chicago-Midway, but I don't mind. I'm sure the service will grow over time once people realize how much of a break Southwest is going to be compared to Northwest/Delta.

Alex in PHX — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 16:55

Congratulations and welcome to the Twin Cities. This market will enjoy a healthy alternative, I think Southwest will be welcome by customers and fellow peers in the travel industry. We have covered Southwest here before. The Marketing Edge podcast based in St. Paul, MN interivewed Paula Berg in Spring of 2007 about the openess and candor of this blog, http://tinyurl.com/69lnc3 - would love to do more as you enter the market.

All the best

Albert Maruggi

Albert Maruggi — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 17:00

I think Southwest said it best, "A Symbol Of Freedom."

Paul A. — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 17:09

My prayers are finally being answered! I have waited 8 years for Southwest to appear in Minnesota. It was my airline of choice all the time I lived in the southwest, and I can't wait for March! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Barbara Hodges — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 17:11

Whooo!! We're excited to hear that. But, as a Minnesotan, I have to point out it's the St. Paul Winter Carnival...not Ice Festival. :)

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 17:13

Thank you Bill!
I read that the MAC was in Dallas a few weeks ago talking to Southwest. I just moved to Minneapolis from Baltimore and miss Southwest Airlines.
Have you announced which cities you will be flying to yet? I would love to see a Florida city or two.
Minneapolis has already rolled out the welcome mat on Star Tribunes website with lots of comments. http://www.startribune.com/business/30039604.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEy...

Steve C — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 17:21

When our family moved from Albuquerque to Minneapolis five years ago, we pondered life without 'The Company Plane'. It's great to finally be upgraded back into the peanut section. Welcome!

Dewey — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 17:30

Hurrah! Bye, bye Northwest. This will certainly drive down the cost of doing business in this town. Say hello to 30 minute or less gate turnovers. I love LUV!

Jason — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 17:53

Thank You for deciding to come to Minnesota!
I haven't yet flow Southwest, but I'm really looking forward to the amazing prices they offer!
I'm from the Twin Cities, my boyfriend goes to school in Philadelphia and his parents live in St. Louis. We are completely crazy, especially living on a college budget... That's why I am so excited about this new announcement! Please consider expanding to more routes right away!

Samantha Koski — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 18:13

thank you thank you thank you

With family and business in CA and AZ... I have experience and loved flying Southwest. Often I've boarded saying, "we need this kind of customer service and courtesy in Minnesota." The Chicago route is a good start. For too long Northwest has been able to keep effective competition away from MSP. I'm excited. Now start thinking about helping us get from MSP to SFO.

Steve Anderson — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 18:20

Dear Southwest,
GREAT NEWS! THANK YOU!!
I have been waiting years for you to come and rescue us from NWA/DELTA and the: we don’t care about you because we are the only option you have attitude”.
Please take all of the empty gates.

SICK OF NWA — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 18:25

Brilliant news, but why can't you start straight away, My poor husband has to travel between the Cities and Baltimore via those other airlines and boy does he hate them with a passion. Up until last year, he would only go where Southwest went, if he had to fly on another airline he would fine a way to avoid the situation, unforunately, he now has to fly the other airlines and I have to deal with his total distrust and dislike for them.

So please pretty please start the service ASAP

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 18:25

This is great news!!!--I relocated to Minneapolis 3-1/2 years ago from Chicago and due to family circumstances I fly each weekend to Chicago. Three years ago there were 3 airline options and today, there is only Northwest, and their flight fees have literally "tripled" since March 2005 because they are the ONLY carrier that flies from MSP to Chicago Midway and this would be soooo appreciated!!!

Thank you sooooo much!!
I am ready to book flights today!!!

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 18:38

Please come to Allentown, Pa next! We want Southwest here!

Patrick — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 18:39

My guess would be Humphrey terminal. That is where all the Non SkyTeam airlines get placed. Was kind of surprised that they will be flying the MSP-MDW route, but anything is better than nothing. Good Luck Southwest.

lavalampluva — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:07

I hope service to OMA from MSP is on the agenda..it was great to see you add DEN to OMA!

Cornhusker — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:08

Hey, is North Dakota next? Oh to have you come to Fargo and Bismarck! Then I can get back to my old home from El Paso!

John — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:17

THANK YOU Southwest! I cut up my platinum NWA card today and pledge to fly SWA every time possible. I've asked many, many times for SWA to come to MSP and now its finally going to happen. I heard about it in the office today and the response was amazing. EVERYone was excited about being able to fly Southwest. Welcome to Minnesota SWA!

Tyler — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:18

this is some of the best news Ive heard in a long time!! Hooray for Southwest....we can sure use some southern hospitality after dealing with these expensive and non personal airlines up here!

sjk — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:41

i live in mpls and i have heard rumors of southwest trying to come to mpls.I have a sister in boise and parents in phoenix and they love southwest. It is about time that you give northworst a run for their money

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:43

Minneapolis to Midway? I guess it'll do for now, Minneapolis to Vegas will be better. Was a total pleasure flying Southwest from Midway to Raleigh Durham in August. The crew was unbelievably friendly and hilarious. Anxiously looking forward to flying Southwest again. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You. And Congratulations. Welcome to Minnesnowta!

Brendan — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:46

How soon can we buy tickets?

This calls for a party!!!!!

mikael — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 19:57

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!

Our family is thrilled that you're heading to the Twin Cities! What happy news! It's just Minnesota-nice, if you ask us!

You have given us affordable vacations and affordable business travel.

SWA, you've just helped us to get closer to our family. Affordable trips home are in our future.

Family of SWA Fans — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:00

This is great news for those of us who, previously, enjoyed flying Southwest before moving to Minnesota. I can't believe we just paid over $300 to fly from Mpls to Chicago when I flew there last year from LA for $200 on Southwest! I hope Minnesotans appreciate the efficiency as well.

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:11

"Hallelujah" is all I can say! Can you get here earlier than March? :)

Also, to Kavijar - Humphrey terminal.

Dawn — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:15

"Hallelujah!" is all I can say. Can you get here any earlier than March? :)

And to the 1st poster: Humphrey terminal.

Dawn — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:18

luvswairlines
Southwest Airlines does fly to Buffalo so MSP's weather should be no problem!

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:40

Bill,

Thanks for letting us know about this, and a big congrats on the Media Day. I had a feeling you guys were going to let a big cat out of he bag, since it is the Dallas, Texan thing to do! I am excited to hear what terminal and what city pairings you guys are going to utilize. I hope, believe, and wish the best for you guys up in MSP, it is a pair of cities that truly need the Luv of Southern Ideals, and most importantly, the Luv of Southwest! YEEEHAW!

Joseph M.

Dallas, Texas

JoeDal — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:42

All I can say is HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am from Minneapolis. It's about time sombody took on Northworst. Let the Southwest Effect prevail. I have been fling southwest for 20 years, I am an A list member and this is great.

Dave Malenfant — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:53

Great!!! I am 68, we have not had a senior fare in Minneapolis. I am really looking forward to your having flights from Minneapolis.

Michael — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:56

Great news for Southwest! Not being afraid to fly into hostile territory (Northwest's headquarters) is clearly a sign of the leadership team taking hold of the reins on Denton Drive! First Denver, San Francisco, Dulles (Washington) and NOW Minneapolis!

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 20:58

I am sooooo excited for this! I've flown Southwest many times and HATED transferring from a "non-partner"!!

Sassy — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 21:15

This is WONDERFUL news!! My husband travels every (yes, every) week and, after living in Baltimore for four years where we were constant SWA flyers, we have missed the airline terribly in MSP. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I can't tell you how thrilled we are. We will be very very frequent travelers! Thank you!! Barbara

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 21:20

im soo excited!! i plan on applying! i was working for airtran in msp, and as we all know, they had cut their flight service out of msp quite a bit. ill keep checking southwest.com to apply!!

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 21:25

IF ITS HUMP TERM IT WILL ROCK NO MORE NWA INDUCED HIGH FARES CURBSIDE PICK UP IN UNDER 30 MIN SWA WILL RESHARE MSP INTO SOMETHING WORTH WHILE AND NEW JOBS IN ALL SECTORS WILL FOLOW HELL YES ABOUT TIME

ELWOOD — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 21:51

I'm so thrilled!! Keep up the good work!!! I love it when you add new destinations, not merely new airports. I'm predicting that one of the inaugural flights will be to Saint Louis. But that's just a guess...

Micah M. — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 21:51

I just want to complain that this wasn't even high on the Internal "rumor list"! ;-)

Whatever happened to seeing so-and-so in such-in-such, so we all knew in advance!?!?! ;-)

I personally can't wait to see how this initial announcement grows, which is something we seem to do at ole SWA.

Thanks for the post, Bill.

P.S. Does MSP really have worse weather than MDW and BUF??? I think I've seen some snow on Canyon Blue planes.

Will — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 22:02

Bring on the Luv.

Southwest - I have to say I am so pumped to have Southwest airlines coming to Minneapolis. Having moved here 14 years ago from Oklahoma, where Southwest had a great presence, I have missed the smiles, peanuts, and efficient service. I can tell you that Southwest will find a very loyal customer base in Minnesota. Yippee!!!!

TJ — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 22:14

I grew up flying Southwest in St. Louis and loved them. I moved to Minneapolis only to find they did not serve this market. Please expand to other cities, ASAP, although Chicago is a nice start! THANK YOU SO MUCH for finally coming to Minneapolis. I've never flown out of Humphrey, but I know they just redid it and expanded. I hear it is super easy to park and fly from there from those who have done it. I'm looking forward to it!! Yeah!!!! Finally!!!

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 22:33

This is great news, I just saw it on TV and can't hardly believe we finally have competition to the overpriced, poor service NWA. Welcome to the Twin Cities SWA. Please fight for as many gate as you can get so we can now get up and see the country at an affordable cost. I used to live in SLC and flew SWA several times a month and have missed your airline for 13 long years. Your service was always great, polite, enjoyable staff and great fares. Don't let Delta or NWA bully you around, they haven't paid the state (Taxpayers) back for the last bailouts and people here don't like them and the change has been long overdue. Please add warm climate locations first after Chicagoland, Florida, Arizona, San Francisco, and Cancun.

Welcome again!!

Happy to See SWA Coming to MSP — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 22:35

Well now I have fewer excuses to go up there in the winter to visit relatives... glad it is finally happening. Think of all the great international flights available from MSP too. I may very well go to Europe this summer WITHOUT passing through New York, Atlanta or Houston. NWA still can have a decent international flight (esp. when its KLM flying). Cheers!

Chris in NM — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 22:47

Phoenix to Rochester, MN, maybe via Las Vegas?
Would be a terrific route.

Bob Ganz — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 22:48

This is awesome! Great move Southwest! Chicago is a great city to connect it to as well because it offers connections from/to almost all of your network. Good luck and I hope it works out well for you(I can't imagine how it couldn't once everyone gets a taste of your great fares and customer service that all of us in your other cities have come to know so well).

Anonymous — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 23:33

Thank goodness. A trip to Minneapolis is a 11 - 12 hour drive from Oklahoma. We love and exclusively travel on SW, so this will make our trips to visit my wife's family a greater experience.

MStearman — Wed, 10/01/2008 - 23:39

wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo hhhhhooooooooooo

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 01:15

Good news never seems to cease at Southwest. Glad to know you are going to MSP next Spring, and hope it's into Lindbergh Terminal because of the majority of car rentals and hotel shuttle buses. Looking forward to the new schedule when it comes on line!

Bob — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 03:19

Hip-Hip-Horray! SWA saved the day!

Having family in the TC it's going to be easier to get back and forth.

BTW - It was always called the St. Paul Winter Carnival - when did it change to the Ice Festival?

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 04:17

Hip Hip Hooray!! This can't happen soon enough. I fly out of MSP 3 out of 4 weeks often on the so called hometown airline. They are not so Minnesota Nice! Can't wait til Southwest is here.

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 07:07

Hooray!!! This is FANTASTIC news. Thank you Bill!

We welcome the whole Southwest Family to Minesota. In fact...I'd love to have you all over for some Hotdish and Ice Fishing! How many can I expect???

Perhaps we can plan the party during the "Winter Carnival" in St. Paul. (Fabulous Marketing Idea) Let me know how I can help!

Carl — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 07:37

Ohhhhh Thank God. I am so tired of getting ripped off by Northworst. I have flown over a million miles with NW and I hate so many things about them. I fly a lot and get free upgrades on NW but I'm taking all my business to Southwest. They seem to actually care about the customer, what a concept. I can't wait for Southwest to get here. I was dancing in the streets when I heard the news. I'm sick and tired of Northworst and the little planes they seem to fly just about everywhere now. Good riddance to Northwest.

Tim D — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 08:44

YAY!! I moved to the Twin Cities two years ago from a city that has SW service and I've been eagerly waiting for this announcement. I've missed flying SW so I'm really looking forward to booking my first flight on SW next year.

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 08:47

The media in Minneapolis is saying Southwest will be at the Humphrey terminal with two gates but only flying to Chicago. This is unlike Southwest to do this (and costly.) Are you going to be flying to more cities? It would be nice to see Denver or Las Vegas to handle west cost traffic. As well as St. Louis or Nashville for people going to the Southeast and Florida.

Steve C — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 09:04

YAHOO!!! I fly to MN about 4 times to visit family and am thrilled about the fact there will now be three of you competing for my business!!!

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 09:19

Thank goodness! I'm originally from New England, and there is no affordable way to fly from Minneapolis to Manchester, NH. This is wonderful news!

Jared — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 09:29

July 1971 - Age 9 - flew 1st southwest flight from Dallas to Houston - flew in at night and amazed as a kid seeing the lights of such a huge city.

July 1999 - Age 37 - flew 1st scheduled commercial flight on Suncountry Airlines out of aging Humphrey Terminal (10 gates).

2001 - Favorite Airline (Suncountry) shuts down operations and I no longer have the option to fly 1st class, nonstop from MSP to Houston and DFW for $229 roundtrip. My 300,000 miles are useless and I get an apology letter from Corporate.

2000-2002 - Resorted to flying Vanguard Airlines from MSP to Kansas City and then on to DFW. Then catch the $16 bus over to Love Field to board a SWA flight to get to Houston, San Antonio or Austin.

2002 - Moved to Minnesota from Houston and experienced the NWA monopoly. Purchased many tickets for $649 to fly from MSP to MDW and then pick up SWA at Midway to complete my business travel. A Minnesota resident who hated NWA and all of their whining employees.

2003-2006 - ATA is my new option for MSP to MDW and once again, my business travels duck the nonsense that is dished out by NWA. Doesn't matter if I stay over a saturday night or book 5 months in advance, I still can't afford/justify flights on NWA.

2006-2008 - I fly MSP to MDW on Airtran for $39 each way for 2 years. Of course I always jump on SWA at Midway to get to my final destination. 3 airports and 2 carriers to get to my destination but save 10's of thousands of dollars over 3 year period by NOT flying NWA.

May 2008 - I fly the final flight on Airtran from MSP to MDW for $109.

June 2008 - The only way to get cheap airfare is to take Airtran from MSP to Atlanta and then fly west or north out of that obnoxious airport in Georgia. Why? Because now that there is no longer ATA, Airtran, Vanguard or a reasonable city/flight on Sun Country (which came back by the way) MY ONLY OPTION TO GET TO CHICAGO IS ON NWA AND AS SOON AS AIRTRAN PULLED OUT, Suddenly, THE FLIGHTS ON NWA THAT WERE $59 EACH WAY IN APRIL OF 2008 ARE NOW $499 ROUNDTRIP FROM MSP TO MDW. Criminal NWA! Just wrong of you to do such a thing. Supply and demand huh?

October 2008 - The long awaited announcement wakes me up at 6:38 in the morning. I'm sleeping soundly but the Minneapolis newscast is blaring in the background. I think I'm having a dream and that SWA has announced that after 15 years of "thinking about it" they ARE FINALLY GOING TO BITE THE COST OF DOING BUSINESS in a monopoly market and set up shop in St. Paul! I put my feet on the ground beside my bed, grab the remote and hit rewind on the DVR. This is REAL ! I'm not having a dream! Finally the favorite airline of North America is going to allow naive Minnesotans the opportunity to discover that you DON'T have to pay $1012 to fly from MSP to Hartford with 3 weeks advance notice and an overnight stay on Saturday.

My 1st airplane ride was on Southwest and now that my home airport will be serviced by Southwest, this will probably be my last plane ride. As my team of Doctors keep telling me that lung cancer survival won't be an easy road, my days ahead are brightened with the opportunity to travel each week on an affordable airline. I will actually get to see friends and family across the country next year.

THANK YOU SOUTHWEST! This announcement brings great joy!

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 09:38

Great news! I moved from Minneapolis to Dallas 5 years ago and having to fly Northworst back there is the worst part. You should really look at flying from MSP to MCI or STL to make it easier on your hometown faithful (well, until Wright is fully gone anyway)!!!

Plano Gopher — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 09:52

This is KILLER!!! Have been waiting 9 years for this to happen. Fire up the STL-MSP route and drinks are on me!!!!!!

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 09:59

Humphrey terminal is so much more convenient than Lindbergh. That's great news. But, Why do we have to wait until March? And why only to/from Chicago? We want SW nationally AND RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!

Michele Erwin — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 10:36

Hooray! We are grandparents living in NH, with family in MN. I was getting increasingly depressed about the cost of flying to see our grandchildren...even to the point of reducing our trips from 4 to 3 per year! Now, we may be able to fly even more often. Thank you, thank you!

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 11:12

this has put a smile on my face ever since i heard the news. i live in amarillo tx and have family in the twin cities. every time i want to go visit them (or vice versa) i have to drive 16 hours to see them because i don't want to pay an outrageous amount to fly another airline! the timing of this could not be better! as my sister is due to have her first baby in april. as soon as it's available, i will buy a ticket for my wife and i to travel to msp! i can't wait to hit mystic lake casino for seafood buffet night!!!

minesotans you guys really lucked out, oh yeah, ya bet 'cha. i remember years ago when us texans had to defend their beloved little airline (swa) to the "big dogs" making fun of our peanuts. ha! who's laughing now? yeah, we still get peanuts but at least they're free! lol. and not having to pay to travel with luggage is not only awesome but also a no brainer. normally, if you're traveling by plane, it means you're going to be staying a while right? so how do they expect people to go on a trip without luggage? doesn't make sense. basically, they're penalizing people for wanting to travel by air.

living in amarillo we've really lucked out as southwest is one of only three airlines that serves our city. a couple of years ago we had five. a couple years from now, we may only have one. but you better believe that if that day comes, southwest will be the last one standing.

please southwest, nyc next!

-chad

txisgr8 — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 11:43

Thank God! Finally.....

Brock Noland — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 12:25

I have been waiting for a long time for Southwest to come to Minneapolis! :) I've flown Southwest twice in my life, and it was the best treatment I've ever received on a flight. I can tell y'all have a lot of fun working for Southwest, and it's so exciting Minnesota finally gets to feel the Luv.

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 13:13

Great news!!

PHX-MSP please!!!

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 14:40

Halleluujah! Please hurry, rescue us from the big bad airline that lives here! I am 50 - 75,000 miles each year and I'm ready to switch.

isoopto — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 15:44

What great news!

I just moved to St. Paul from Detroit and have been dreading having to fly NW all the time to visit family back home. I would rather take a connecting flight through MDW with Southwest than any NW flight anywhere. Thanks Southwest, and the sooner you start, the better!

Matt — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 15:52

You can rely on 2 NWA passengers to switch to Southwest even with a stop in Chicago at every opportunity...many of us have waited a long time to see Southwest to come to MSP

Anonymous — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 15:55

You rock, SWA!!! I echo the sentiments of all who are beside themselves with this long overdue news!! You have made a family of native Arizonans and New Mexicans very happy!! Where can I get a job application?!

Mardo — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 16:33

This is best news I've heard in awhile. Fares on NWA to MDW have been sick since ATA and AirTran pulled out. We look forward to your service and FAIR prices. Lookout Dougie!!

John R — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 16:33

Welcome, with open arms! Looking forward to seeing you.

Bryan — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 17:01

This is the best news ever!! Welcome to the Twin Cities!! I moved here from Texas a number of years ago and have been waiting for you to make your way here. I'll be checking the site often to see when I can start booking flights. Thank you Southwest!! You'll be a great addition to MSP.

kristina — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 17:28

This is fantastic news! I asked a counter agent less than two months ago if you would ever go to MSP. This is some of the best travel news I have heard in a long time! Thanks!

Pat — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 18:47

Thank you!
I work out of Chicago and Minn-St Paul has been the one market I could not get to on SWA. This really made my day -Thank you!
Bill

Bill — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 19:50

OMG, I am SOOOO excited!!! I have been waiting for this---finally some competition and some reasonable fares!!! I love my family and will finally get to see them more often!! THANK YOU SO MUCH, BIG HUGS TO WHOEVER DECIDED THIS!!! Deb

deb — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 21:14

Bill - I haven't had the chance to talk to you yet - we'll save the conversation for when I'm less emotional. Thanks - to you, and Gary, and Pete, and Brook, and Adam, and Nicholas - thanks for giving this girl a ride home.

SMS (Mer) — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 21:49

THANK YOU Southwest for finally coming to the 'Land of 10,000 Lakes' . . . . God Bless Ya! We're so sick of NWA. You will love the twin cities and our loyalty. We can't wait!

James B and Pamela P — Thu, 10/02/2008 - 23:03

Always great to see a new city added to the LUV network...and I can definitely
tell that this particular destination has awaited WN service for years.
Best of luck on the new service at MSP, and hope to see LAS nonstop at some
point in the future!

VegasLUV

VegasLUV — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 00:07

Words can't express how glad I am to see that Southwest is coming to MSP. I can't add anything new here to what has already been said. I'm tired of being more or less forced to use NWA, an airline that used to be enjoyable to fly but has since become a chore.

TimboTiki — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 09:53

Please add Wisconsin cities too! Like Milwaukee, Green Bay/Appleton, and Madison!
Then our Grandpa come come and visit us.

Anonymous — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 10:52

Thank you, thank you, thank you -- you heard my wish! as a prior resident of Mpls, I was always frustrated with the monoply of another airline. I regularly travel to ca and always book on SW. Thanks again for the Mpls flights!

Anonymous — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 13:45

Hooray. A great metro area finally gets a great airline. I live in Chicago, and MSP is the only place I travel to regularly that I couldn't fly SWA to. I hope you expand service there like you did for Denver. They're ready for you.

Shawco9 — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 15:49

I am stoked! I moved to CA 8 years ago and fly Southwest as often as I can. Being a former NWA Gold/Silver Elite member for years I thought NWA was good. SWA IS GREAT! Unbeatable service, on time departures, a FF program that is based on flights flown (not total miles like the rest) and did I mention great service!!!! My family and I can not wait....thank you SWA answering our repeated requests!!!!

rancho cucamonga dude — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 16:55

Hallelujah! Ever since close family moved to MSP I've had to push a bunch of my travel to other airlines to get there (eating some change fees along the way). This closes that big network hole for this A-lister. It will be nice to see all the nationwide SWA advertising aired in MSP put to good use now, too. Nice!

Robert S — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 18:36

At last, MSP! Hope they have connecting service to MSP from ABQ and TPA. I make 2 trips each year out of ABQ to/from MSP and have family in FL that do the same out of TPA.

lincco — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 18:43

I am trying to find an email address to send a resume for a Flight Attendant position. Is there an email address for this? I do not find that SWA is hiring however I would like to put an application on file. I am an experienced flight attendant presently flying with a legacy carrier.
Thanks for the help.

Anonymous — Fri, 10/03/2008 - 19:24

I am so glad to see Southwest going into MSP. I have been flying them to Vegas and New Hampshire for a few years. Have family in MSP and had to use other airlines from Florida. Come on Southwest we need service from Fl to Msp.
Thank you
Jeanette

Jeanette — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 07:11

Can we make it sooner then March 2009??? I am so tired of paying $500 - $800 for a ticket form MSP to Chicago for a one hour flight. I hope the other airlines between MSP and CHI will loose all of their customers to Southwest!

Anonymous — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 11:59

There is no need for a testing basis. I can guaranty that all the flights will be filled. All the AA flights to MSP are always overbooked. I have been dreaming of the day Southwest would open a route there. Now we can visit the parents in Minnesota for less.

THANK YOU, SOUTHWEST!!!!

Anonymous — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 12:46

Becoming a new grandma in March, thought I wasn's going to see the new baby to often but thanks to SW Airline that will change.
Thanks again,
New Grandma to be

Anonymous — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 15:37

This totally just made my day! No more change fees and baggage fees! I'll be able to get home from Nashville for less than $500 now (at least I hope)!

Sairey — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 16:54

You guys are THE BEST!!! Thank you so much for adding Mpls/St. Paul to your list of destinations - It is about time somebody come ito town and show NWA how to service customers!!! It is goodbye NWA for me!!!!!!!! YEHHH!!!!

Amy — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 17:48

PBI to MSP or HHH please!! No more NWA WOO HOO!

Hawkins — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 18:32

That's great news.....when will South Dakota be added to the Southwest market?? Rapid City, needs more of a variety of airlines...there is so much growth here with Mt. Rushmore and Sturgis....Southwest would eat up the competition. We are ready for you.

theladiesman — Sat, 10/04/2008 - 22:00

Anony mous (FA Candidate),
You can apply olnline at www.southwest.com/careers. Fill out your resume there when we are accepting them for Flight Attendant.
Brian

Brian Lusk — Sun, 10/05/2008 - 11:00

OUTSTANDING!!!!! I fly from MCO to PHL every other week on SWA! You have been great!! I am very excited to see you go to MSP!! I hope to see a non-stop flight from MCO to MSP!!

Thank you Southwest!!

Brad — Sun, 10/05/2008 - 19:05

How about the cheese heads in Wisconsin? Milwaukee definitely needs Southwest Airlines

Tlegree — Sun, 10/05/2008 - 19:11

This is great!!!!!! I'm in Vegas now, and I'm sooooooo glad SW will be going to my home state!

Julie — Mon, 10/06/2008 - 13:10

Welcome to Minnesota!!!!
As someone who is always looking for a better, less expensive airline, I literally applauded the news when I heard it. I travel for work and pleasure and LOATH having to fly through ORD, ATL, and DTW. Being able to use an airport like Midway as a gateway to the rest of the country is outstanding! I wouldn't worry about the winter weather up here. We are FAR better at handling the winter snows than Chicago is! Also, you will find a pool of talented, seasoned pilots up here once the Delta/NWA merger hits.

In closing, Welcome! I know you will love the move here as much as I did when I moved to the MSP area almost four years ago!

Cheers!
Brad

Brad J — Mon, 10/06/2008 - 16:25

Thank you thank you - - this opens a world of travel that is not currently available to us here. When I lived on the East Coast, I could do "get out of Dodge" weekends all the time because your fares made it possible. I think I will make my first flight out of MSP airport in full clown costume just to celebrate the sprit of SWA!! Honk Honk!!

SheBD — Mon, 10/06/2008 - 21:52

yay yay yay! i am from mn but live in chicago now and have been waiting for SW to go to MSP for forever! thanks!

Sally Carlson — Mon, 10/06/2008 - 22:08

Thank you, thank you!! I have been 3-4 flight per month Southwest flyer for about the past six years, and the only time I have to take another airline is when going to MSP. This is great news!

Russell — Tue, 10/07/2008 - 12:14

This is fantastic...not perfect until there is a direct from KC, but fantastic nontheless. I want to "short" Northwest stock

Anonymous — Tue, 10/07/2008 - 13:15

We've been waiting for something like this since AirTran stopped servicing Chicago and Midway...since we've started to drive the 6+ hours!! Driving is for the birds. I hope the pricing is in the same range as what AirTran offered. Any ideas on the price range of tickets??

Marc — Tue, 10/07/2008 - 15:21

It can't get any better. I just relocated to Minneapolis from Texas, and not being able to fly on Southwest had disappointed me.. Congratulations, I'm happy to being flying with the airline that cares again.

Anonymous — Tue, 10/07/2008 - 17:59

This is great. I am tired of paying sky high fares of all the other airlines. NW fares have been untouchable. Great news for the twin cities.

singh — Wed, 10/08/2008 - 09:07

This is Great NEWS!!!!!!! To bad there not starting before the holidays start. But anyway It would be nice to see another airline come in and maybe cheaper prices.

Anonymous — Wed, 10/08/2008 - 13:22

Fantastic News! I'm born and raised in MSP, but lived near Nashville and then Tampa for a few years. I travel weekly for business and LUV SWA service. Unlike NWA, SWA makes money, has happy employees and happy customers. Truely, SWA is the gem of the industry and so very happy they are coming to MSP. My prayers are answered! Thank you SWA and wish you all the very best success. I am sure you will receive very warm welcome response from the people in the Twin Cities.

PLK — Thu, 10/09/2008 - 08:03

Congratulations!! ... to both SWA and MSP. As a native Californian now living in Minneapolis, this is FABULOUS news. My wife and I are excited about the new flight opportunities that will be available to us via the best airline in the business.

Brent — Thu, 10/09/2008 - 14:30

Well yeah, sure, you betch' a. Finally a friendly way to get to MN. Long overdue!!!! Certainly hope you give N'worst a kick in the hold. I have been flying SWA forever and now MN-how cool is this? I bet those flights from MDW to MSP will sell out. We have family in MN and have had to pay dearly to visit them. Now we will be able to go more often! Hope that your fares will be fair. Do you think the powers that be at NW will read this blog and get the picture? March??? Why not tomorrow? Love ya LUV!!!!!!

CA — Fri, 10/10/2008 - 09:15

Yeah!!! My family lives in Minnesota, but I live in Houston, TX. Fares between Minneapolis and Houston have been getting SO expensive. I am very excited to see Southwest enter the market and add more competition. I can't wait to book my first visit home on Southwest!

Anonymous — Mon, 10/13/2008 - 08:41

I really hope that Southwest flies to and from BWI (Baltimore Washington.) That route is MUCH needed.

Anonymous — Mon, 10/13/2008 - 15:49

Life just doesn't get any better! First I move back to my home state - and now you're going to be taking off and landing here. I'm thrilled to be able to travel with you again - after a 2 year hiatus. We'll all do our best to give you a Minne-snowta welcome!!

Anonymous — Mon, 10/13/2008 - 22:31

When can we buy tickets??

Mike D — Tue, 10/14/2008 - 08:39

Hi Bill!

We are thrilled to have SWA come to Minnesota! I work for a company whose headquarters are in Baltimore. We send many employees there weekly. If you can add a non-stop or two to BWI every weekday, it would be fantastic! (Not to mention, it would eliminate NWA's stranglehold on the MSP-BWI nonstop market.)

We can't wait for SWA to start flying out of the Humphrey terminal!

Anonymous — Tue, 10/14/2008 - 12:42

Back in May 2008 when AirTran dropped their MSP to MDW flight, the other 3 airlines (AA, NWA, United) increased their prices by 400% (no exaggeration!). Did I mention I go to school in Chicago, and make the round-trip EVERY weekend? Driving is an inexpensive but inconvenient option. Southwest, the sooner you coordinate this route, the sooner you'll get my money. I won't go back to the other airlines, no matter how many price wars they play with you. There are 30+ of us who make the round-trip to Chicago each week, to go to school. Although we’re a small group, I’m sure we’ll be a dedicated revenue stream for you. I know Southwest has a sophisticated strategy when entering and pricing the market, but this couldn't have happened soon enough. Many many thanks!

Student Flyer — Tue, 10/14/2008 - 17:08

Hi, Bill!

I am SO excited that Southwest is flying our way! I LUV Southwest Airlines' warmth, friendliness and company spirit. It is so obvious that your employees are treated like part of a team. That is what makes your company successful.

Northworst has crapped on its customers (and employees!) for way too long and Minnesotans are so ready for a change.

So welcome to Minnesoooota, Southwest...... when can we start booking?!?!

Jane H. — Tue, 10/14/2008 - 20:08

I am very glad to see southwest coming to MSP, I flew one time on SWA and enjoyed the short flight from Vegas to Reno. Hey I hope SWA will gradually have a flight going out west to (NV, reno , CA , San jose and like WA, seattle even) cause right now to go to Reno, it takes s-oooo long to get there like triple the time; going through Chicago, SLC , dallas or vegas first. ..NWA use to have a straight flgt to Reno at one time.......thanks its a start for more options for MSP travel..u betcha SWA we're looking forward to flying with U!!

Anonymous — Wed, 10/15/2008 - 00:36

YES !! & thank you Southwest; I'll be able to visit my sister et family and not go broke. Next question - will there be direct flights from Lambert St Louis to Minneapolis St Paul.?

Auntie H from STL — Wed, 10/15/2008 - 09:56

This is great. I am stoked. Going to colledge in OMA, I have friends and family in MSP, STL, OMA, MDY, and MCO. Although I hear A LOT of people requesting direct flights from MSP to one of these cities, keep in mind that Southwest has an obligation to Chicago to board a set number of people at each of the gates they purchased from ATA. If they cannot do this they will be subject to a penatly. If the economics justify it, they will bypass Midway, but having connections in Midway keeps it simple increases traffic through one of their de facto hubs. However, if we are going to make suggestions, I think either a MSP to MCO or STL and MSP to DEN and MSP to LVS will be the natural choices. (I personally think OMA to MCO is a good option too if gas prices remain under $2.50 for Jet A. Just my 2 cents.

RDU Flier — Thu, 10/16/2008 - 13:18

Gary:

Congratulations on the announcement of Minneapolis-St. Paul. I think the question of which terminal will SWA be serving at MSP is a fair one. The main Lindbergh Terminal or the Humphrey Terminal, which serves primarily the charter airlines which fly into and out of MSP.

Northwest Airlines -- NWA (soon to become Delta) have three of MSP's four main concourses pretty much to themselves, with the exceptioin of "C" where the rest of the airlines that serve MSP are sandwiched into. If SWA will be using the main Lindbergh Terminal, it would seem to me that NWA would need to be willing to give up a number of their gate slots in order for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which operates MSP, to accommodate the Southwest service.

There has been some talk of adding a mid-field concourse at MSP for a number of years, and plans have even been drawn up for it, but the local politicians and the Metropolitan Airports Commission board have been holding off on that for a while. There's even been discussion of replacing MSP with an even larger airport out further into the suburbs. No action on that either, particularly since MSP just added a fourth runway within the last couple of years.

I think everyone's holding their breath to see how the Northwest-Delta merger plays itself out. Everything's been approved for the most part, so now it's just down to the integration of the two systems into one and they'll be ready to launch.

At any rate, welcome to the Twin Cities and good luck with the new service.

Rick Olson — Thu, 10/16/2008 - 14:07

since 1985 Houston Hobby to Kansas City - 200 miles from MSP now and often times I go to Chicago Midway when I need to Move About The Country. This is awesome news and a long time coming.

D Burton — Thu, 10/16/2008 - 20:13

This is truly divine intervention at it's best. All I can say is what a wonderful bit of news this has been, obviously not to just a few but to many. You will have 2 non-stops a day from PHX to MSP and back within the first 6 months. More will come before the end of 09'. Can't wait to see the first schedule as I'm going up there this coming summer. Great job everyone!!! The very best of all, to the very best of them all.

ODee22 — Fri, 10/17/2008 - 17:31

I've lived in ELEVEN states/cities served by SWA and flew you guys a lot. Now I live in the great state of Texas, in the greatest city in Texas - Austin - and am still flying you a lot! But, I am FROM the great state of Minnesota and I am so happy to FINALLY be able to travel HOME, to the TWIN CITIES, on the greatest airline in the USA! Thank you SWA - it's long overdue but better late than never! :) You guys ROCK!

Jon in Austin — Mon, 10/20/2008 - 10:58

IM GLAD THE FLYING PUBLIC IS EXCITED FOR SWA AIRLINES TO COME TO MSP!!! BECAUSE THAT SHOWS HOW MUCH THE WONDERFUL PEOPLE OF MINNESOTA REALIZE WHATS NEEDED THERE. AS A BIG FAN OF SOUTHWEST AIRLINES, THAT HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO FLY IN THE SW STATES ON SWA. SOUTHWEST AIR WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND ALLOW MORE PEOPLE TO FLY OUT OF MSP AT A RESONABLE PRICE AND GREAT SERVICE!

Anonymous — Mon, 10/20/2008 - 15:28

THANK YOU!!!

MSP is the first place I've lived with ridiculously high plane tickets, and I truly believe with your entry into this market, it will really help us get back in the air again for reasonable prices.

NWA has a monopoly on this market and it will be nice to see another company come in and get the pricing back to where it should be.

Bring on the Chicago lane and please, for the sake of us Minnesotans, please quickly add other lanes.

Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
KB

Kristen — Mon, 10/20/2008 - 21:57

I am excited!! Most of my family is in Minneapolis and it will be so very nice to get there on a great priced airline! SWA you are my favorite airline, my preferred airline! Thanks!

Anonymous — Tue, 10/21/2008 - 10:52

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I say that from my family here in LA and my family in St. Paul - Grandma and Grandpa and the two grandsons are SOOOO happy they will have more, (and cheaper) choices to visit each other! Bring on that LAX -- MSP leg as soon as you can please! Keep up your success!

Anonymous — Tue, 10/21/2008 - 16:44

Yay!! I worked for Southwest for six years in Salt Lake City and loved every minute of it. I just relocated to the Twin Cities and I am happy to hear that Southwest will be joining me here. I would love to work fo you again someday.

You're the greatest Southwest and I miss your postively outrageous service!

Heart,

Kristen

Kristen — Tue, 10/21/2008 - 21:06

How about a Minneapolis, MN - SIoux Falls, SD - Las Vegas, NV run

Mike - Sioux Falls, SD — Fri, 10/24/2008 - 22:15

I have connected at Midway before to fly southwest. I am happy to see you arrived in the Twin City market giving folks of Minnesota options. I fly quite a bit to PHX, PDX, CLE, and PBI. I will gladly lay over in chicago not to give NW any more money, They have taken enough from flyers in the twin cities market. Good luck and much success.

Bill — Sat, 10/25/2008 - 14:07

Thanks for coming to MSP. I won't be flying with you but I will enjoy cheaper fares.

Anonymous — Sun, 10/26/2008 - 00:43

This is the best! I hate Northwest and am so looking forward to a professional group flying this route from Midway. Can you start November 1?

Randy — Sun, 10/26/2008 - 08:04

YIPPEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Grandkids, here I come! : )

Anonymous — Sun, 10/26/2008 - 20:23

It will be great to have a real airline in the Twin Cities. When are you going to announce you schedule so we can plan our flights. It will be nice to have some connections to the southwest.

DJ — Tue, 10/28/2008 - 23:04

Thank you Bill!!!

This is great news and believe me we're all waiting for Southwest to arrive. Please open routes to Chi ago, California, and the rest of the U.S.

Again I say, excellent news!!

Rick — Thu, 10/30/2008 - 08:32

Welcome to Minnesnowta!

I too vote for a Minneapolis, MN - SIoux Falls, SD - Las Vegas, NV run. I'm pretty sure you can offer round-trip between Mpls and Sioux Falls for less than the exhorbitant $900 Northworst recently quoted!

We'd also like to see a direct gateway to the SW U.S., for making other connections. Thanks!

TimC — Fri, 10/31/2008 - 20:39

WILL YOU START FLYING TO ATLANTA , GA...........

Freddy — Sun, 11/02/2008 - 09:38

Thank you for coming and welcome! It will be great to have a company that is
down to earth at the MSP! I look forward to my first trip to the Southwest!

Barb - Victoria MN — Fri, 11/14/2008 - 09:07

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