Southwest Airlines Considers Boeing 787 Order for Long-Haul International Expansion

Southwest Airlines is considering the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as it explores long-haul international flying. No decision has been made, and Southwest has not confirmed any plans.

Reuters cited individuals familiar with Southwest’s fleet planning. One source said the airline has considered a fleet of “dozens” of 787s, and another said long-haul flights are being discussed with a target of roughly three years from now. 

Southwest is reportedly leaning toward the 787 for its first widebody aircraft, but any decision would need board approval. The airline set up a fleet oversight committee last year.

Southwest has also explored ways to get aircraft sooner, including leasing 787s through leasing companies and buying on the secondary market. The reports do not say whether any agreements have been signed or which 787 variant is under consideration, and they do not report talks with Boeing itself.

Southwest told Reuters it had no news forthcoming on its fleet plans. 

A Major Break From Tradition

Southwest’s fleet has long been built around the Boeing 737. The airline began flying on June 18, 1971, with service between Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, and it has relied on the 737 ever since, apart from a brief period operating 727s in the 1970s and 1980s. Its fleet today stands at about 800 aircraft, all 737s, and the airline aims to be an all-737 MAX operator by 2031.

A single type has helped keep training, maintenance and scheduling costs low. Adding a widebody like the 787 would require different pilot training, spare parts and maintenance arrangements, as commentators have noted.

Airbus Is Pitching Too

Boeing is not the only manufacturer in the conversation. According to the reports, Airbus is pitching Southwest on the A321XLR, A330neo and A220. Airbus said it does not comment on discussions with airlines.

How Big Could the Long-Haul Plan Be?

Southwest has previously said it does not intend to build a network like those of Delta, United or American. In May, CEO Bob Jordan said eight to 12 long-haul destinations could cover a significant share of where customers want to travel.

The reports name no specific destinations. Commentators have raised questions about how a low-fare carrier would make long-haul flying work year-round, noting that transatlantic demand is stronger in summer and that many established carriers operate through joint ventures.

Part of a Wider Overhaul

The idea arrives as Southwest changes how it operates under pressure from investors. Activist investor Elliott Investment Management took a stake of about 11% in June 2024, and in September 2024 the airline unveiled a plan called “Southwest. Even Better.” It included assigned seating, which Southwest scheduled to begin with flights on January 27, 2026, as well as premium seats with extra legroom and overnight flights.

What Happens Next

Because Boeing’s 787 production is sold out through the end of the decade, Southwest could need to rely on leased or second-hand aircraft to fly sooner, or wait for delivery slots. A long-haul launch would also depend on decisions the airline has not yet made, including aircraft type, cabin layout and where to base the flying.

For passengers, nothing changes for now. Until Southwest says more, the 787 remains one of several options under study.