“This added service further bolsters BWI Marshall Airport’s position as a leading airport for low fares and excellent customer service,” said Governor O’Malley. “Travelers in this market have long enjoyed the benefit of extensive air service with competitive fares. The State of Maryland welcomes the additional flights from Southwest Airlines, one of the best, most successful low cost carriers in the business.”
Southwest is the largest airline partner at BWI Marshall, with 53 percent of the passenger market share. BWI Marshall is the airline’s fourth largest market overall, and its largest on the east coast. Southwest Airlines currently offers 159 daily departures to 41 destinations from BWI Marshall Airport. In addition to the added level of flights, Southwest Airlines also announced a new destination from BWI Marshall Airport—Panama City Beach, Florida via the new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.
“The added service from Southwest in 2010 will provide both business and leisure travelers with more travel options,” said Timothy L. Campbell, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Maryland Aviation Administration. “BWI Marshall Airport remains an important gateway for Maryland and the National Capital region.”
In 2009, BWI Marshall Airport has welcomed two new airline partners, and has seen an increase of flights by a number of other carriers. Passenger traffic has increased at BWI Marshall for six of the past seven months, dating back to April 2009.