Southwest Airlines is buzzing with rumors of a potential acquisition of another major US carrier. Recently, board member Chris Click set the social media abuzz with speculation after hinting at this possibility in a post on February 14, 2025. Click, who also represents the flight attendants’ union, sparked curiosity with an online poll on his Facebook page asking followers to guess which airline Southwest Airlines might be eyeing for a takeover.

The idea of Southwest Airlines making a strategic move like an acquisition is not entirely new, as industry experts have been musing about potential mergers or acquisitions involving the airline since early 2024. The Southwest Airlines Pilots Association has reportedly sought legal advice, preparing for the potential implications such a deal could have on their members.

JetBlue and Breeze Airways emerged as the top contenders in Click’s poll, with industry insiders viewing them as likely candidates for a merger or acquisition by Southwest Airlines. As of February 16, 2025, there has been no official confirmation from Southwest Airlines regarding these speculations.

Though Southwest Airlines is known for pioneering the low-cost airline model and maintaining solid financial performance for years, activist investor Elliot Investment Management has recently voiced displeasure. Elliott Investment Management acquired a significant stake in Southwest Airlines, pushing for changes in top management and the adoption of industry best practices to enhance the airline's performance.

The airline has since seen transformations in its board structure, introducing new ancillary services like seat selection and implementing operational enhancements such as optimizing flight schedules and reducing turnaround times. Additionally, Southwest Airlines has made strategic shifts by withdrawing from non-core markets to focus on more profitable routes.

The aviation industry in the US has seen considerable corporate activity in recent months, with notable events such as JetBlue’s unsuccessful bid to acquire Spirit Airlines due to a federal ruling, and Alaska Airlines successfully sealing a $1.9 billion deal to acquire Hawaiian Airlines. Frontier Airlines has also made efforts to acquire Spirit Airlines, with the latest attempt rejected by Spirit Airlines on February 10, 2024.

Exciting developments are on the horizon for Southwest Airlines as the potential acquisition of another US carrier looms large, stirring up anticipation and speculation within the aviation community. Stay tuned to Pilotcenter.net News for updates on this unfolding story.