Airlines

Southwest Airlines recalls over 2,700 flight attendants for summer

Key Points
  • Southwest Airlines said it is recalling over 2,700 flight attendants from leave to support its summer schedule, ending a voluntary furlough program introduced during the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Last week, the low-cost airline said it had recalled 209 pilots from a similar voluntary leave program.

In this article

A Southwest Airlines jet lands at Midway International Airport on January 28, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois.
Scott Olson | Getty Images

Southwest Airlines said on Thursday it is recalling over 2,700 flight attendants from leave to support its summer schedule, ending a voluntary furlough program introduced during the coronavirus pandemic as travel demand waned.

As more Americans become vaccinated, Southwest is among U.S. airlines signaling a recovery and trying to prepare for pent-up demand for domestic leisure travel.

Last week, the low-cost airline said it had recalled 209 pilots from a similar voluntary leave program.

Both recalls take effect on June 1.

The Dallas-based airline said it still has other employees participating in the voluntary extended time-off program, including 800 pilots.