Southwest evaluates Boeing 787 for future international long‑haul service

Southwest Airlines is considering purchasing Boeing 787 aircraft for international long‑haul flights, with the final decision to be made by its board of directors, while the carrier currently operates only a Boeing 737 fleet.

Chief financial officer Tom Doxey said long‑haul routes are among several options under review, and the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association indicated that both wide‑body and narrow‑body options are being explored; the airline is also looking at leasing or used‑aircraft options to speed delivery, and a Boeing 787 would require new maintenance, training, regulatory approvals and union negotiations.