Southwest Airlines adding more Florida routes in major expansion

Southwest Airlines is expanding its Florida network starting next March, announcing a record number of departures at Orlando International Airport as part of a major next-spring rollout. In a July 16 release, the Dallas-based carrier said it will add 19 new routes and expand several others. The new services connect Orlando with New York three times daily and with Pensacola once per day, while Las Vegas will gain service to Miami. Southwest also said departures at Orlando on Saturdays will reach a record high of 214. Beyond Florida, the airline is increasing service in Las Vegas, Austin, Nashville, San Diego, and adding more routes for Hawaii and the Caribbean. The plan includes six new routes this year, service increases to 17 markets, and the return of 28 seasonal routes this winter. Competitors also disclosed Florida growth plans, including Allegiant, American, Avianca, Breeze, and Delta.