Southwest Airlines: flights and fares

**destinscuba** · 12-16-2009, 10:03 AM

Southwest announces four destination cities
Comments 5 | Recommended 1
December 16, 2009 09:24:00 AM
NEWS HERALD STAFF REPORT
PANAMA CITY BEACH � Southwest Airlines announced its four destination cities to and from the new airport this morning, along with special introductory fares.

The four cities are: Houston, Texas; Nashville, Tenn.; Baltimore, Md.; and Orlando. Service will begin May 23, 2010.

Bob Montgomery, Southwest vice president of properties, made the announcement during a press conference that began at 10 a.m. at the Breakers Restaurant in Panama City Beach.

Southwest announces destination cities | panama, announces, southwest - News - The News Herald

**DuneLaker** · 12-16-2009, 10:04 AM

Well, I couldn't tell the big "four+" cities. However, this schedule is now showing on the Southwest Airlines site. Wow! The choices. Going to go back in and select my first trip. Edit. You're good Destinscuba. Thanks. I really Luv the non-stop return from Orlando. Leave Orlando at 5 p.m. arrive home to SoWal's new area airport at 5:10 p.m. - due to time change from Eastern to Central!

http://www.southwest.com/pdf_schedul...0523R0.ecp.pdf

**Smiling JOe** · 12-16-2009, 10:05 AM

3 out of 4 on the rumor list is pretty good. I think that most people had St Louis in place of Orlando.

**SHELLY** · 12-16-2009, 10:42 AM

Interesting to note how Southwest is designating the destination of Florida Biyatches Airport as "Panama City Beach" on their website. I guess it was either that, or "In the midst of a Florida Panhandle Swamp and Pine Forrest."

**destinscuba** · 12-16-2009, 11:18 AM

from SUMMER, 2010: EVERYONE CAN PARTY! | Nuts About Southwest

First and foremost: we're adding our 69th airport, Panama City Beach, effective May 23rd! (Yes, this is a few days later than the rest of the May schedule additions.) We'll be the first new airline flying to a brand new eco-friendly airport serving the Northwest Florida Beaches, and the airport code assigned to the new city couldn't be more appropriate--ECP (Everyone Can Party!).

**passin thru** · 12-16-2009, 11:19 AM

Originally Posted by SHELLY

Interesting to note how Southwest is designating the destination of Florida Biyatches Airport as "Panama City Beach" on their website. I guess it was either that, or "In the midst of a Florida Panhandle Swamp and Pine Forrest."

So now Walton County destinations, and Panama City itself, get to start explaining to consumers that no, the new airport doesn't only serve PCB.

**bdub** · 12-16-2009, 11:21 AM

introductory fares start at $49 one way ---- YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

**scooterbug44** · 12-16-2009, 11:23 AM

Originally Posted by jhanes

Southwest website lists Nashville, Baltimore, Orlando, and Houston as the non-stop flights!!!!

Phooey! I was hoping for Chicago or Detroit or NY or something.

Tried to check out some of my fave routes, but Expedia doesn't recognize ECP as an airport code?

**beachmouse** · 12-16-2009, 11:25 AM

Originally Posted by destinscuba

We'll be the first new airline flying to a brand new eco-friendly airport serving the Northwest Florida Beaches, and the airport code assigned to the new city couldn't be more appropriate--ECP (Everyone Can Party!).

Fits in well with the movement for the area to be known as more than just a Spring Break college party spot, eh?

As for what descriptive name shows up on the airport computers, it's all and always has been the whim of the airline. I think every airline calls VPS something different, and there were airlines still using the Washington National name a decade-plus after the name officially changed to Reagan.

**kurt** · 12-16-2009, 11:40 AM

Grab your beach ball, it's on! Southwest Airlines brings FUN in the sun to Panama City Beach, Florida! Flights are on sale today for the much-anticipated May 23, 2010, start of service! The Dallas-based airline will offer a better way to the beach with a total of eight daily nonstop departures:

-- Panama City Beach (ECP) to/from Nashville (BNA) - two daily flights
-- Panama City Beach (ECP) to/from Houston Hobby (HOU) - two daily flights
-- Panama City Beach (ECP) to/from Baltimore/Washington (BWI) - two daily flights
-- Panama City Beach (ECP) to/from Orlando (MCO) - two daily flights

Southwest is offering these new flights with fares as low as $49 each way to Orlando and $69 each way to Baltimore/Washington, Houston, and Nashville with a 14-day advance purchase (see fare rules below). For more information on the new service see our blog post: blogsouthwest.com.

"Southwest Airlines is excited to bring to this brand new, top-notch airport an all-jet Boeing 737 fleet, our generous Bags Fly Free service where we don't charge you extra for your first two checked bags, and our outstanding Customer Service," said Bob Montgomery, Southwest Airlines Vice President of Properties. "We have been eyeing this region for a long time and have been extremely impressed by the amount of passion the community has put behind bringing Southwest Airlines to their hometown."

In addition to the eight daily nonstop flights, Southwest Airlines will offer direct or connecting service to more than 58 destinations from Panama City Beach, including Dallas and Chicago. Southwest Airlines will operate from Gate 3 at the new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport with approximately 30-35 Employees who will call the region home.
When shopping for Southwest online, it's important to know that Southwest Airlines' low fares are only available at www.southwest.com. Not only will Customers find Southwest's great rates online at www.southwest.com, but the site also hosts Southwest's Travel Guide where Customers can check out insider travel tips posted by those who frequent the Emerald Coast.

After over 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, currently serves 68 cities in 35 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest operates more than 3,100 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.

Fare Rules
The $49 each way fare between Panama City Beach and Orlando, and the $69 each way fare between Baltimore/Washington, Nashville, Houston Hobby, and Panama City Beach are available for purchase today (only on www.southwest.com or swabiz.com) through Dec. 18, 2009, for travel May 23, 2010, through Aug. 13, 2010. Fares are valid every day of the week. Fares are one-way and do not require an overnight stay. When combining fares, all ticketing restrictions apply. Seats are limited. Fares may vary by day of travel and will not be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Fares do not include a federal segment tax of up to $3.60 per takeoff and landing. Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9.00 one-way and U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fees of up to $5.00 one-way. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Tickets are nonrefundable but, if unused, may be applied toward the purchase of future travel on Southwest Airlines. Fares are valid on Southwest-operated published, scheduled service only and are not available through the Group Desk.

Schedule - http://www.southwest.com/pdf_schedul...0523R0.ecp.pdf

**Bernster** · 12-16-2009, 11:43 AM

It's Nashville, Orlando, Houston (HobbY), and Baltimore for two a day non stop direct flights each way. However ther are some other two a day direct flights (one stop with no plane change) from Dallas and Chicago that have a total elapsed travel time of a bit over 3 hours.

Introductory fares for Nashville, Houston, and Baltimore are $69 each way; Orlando is $49 each way.

**kurt** · 12-16-2009, 11:51 AM

So what's the deal with Baltimore? I have never been but I have been wanting to return to DC. Anyone experienced with flying in and out of Baltimore and the best way to get to DC hotel for sightseeing? Rent car, train? Any advice?

Any other interesting places or sights around Baltimore? If you were going to Philadelphia or NYC to see the sights would you rent a car or take a train, or a connecting flight?

**kurt** · 12-16-2009, 12:09 PM

I am surprised that our area is not yet represented at Southwest Vacations - Vacation Packages - Cheap Airline Tickets, Hotels, Rental Cars, Activities & Attractions

**NE SoWaller** · 12-16-2009, 12:09 PM

Originally Posted by jhanes

Southwest website lists Nashville, Baltimore, Orlando, and Houston as the non-stop flights!!!!

I'm a little disappointed that St. Louis wasn't the fourth city. Seems like a waste from Orlando. Get in the car and drive. I hope St. Louis is added. The mid-west is being ignored. It will be two stops to fly from Omaha now.

**NE SoWaller** · 12-16-2009, 12:16 PM

Does anyone know when all the cities can start booking. I have been checking to see what the fares will be from Omaha, it does not allow me to make any selections of flights to get prices.

Are they offering special fares everywhere, or just for the direct flights?

**Smiling JOe** · 12-16-2009, 12:22 PM

Can you say Disney World, which is the number one drive-to destination in the south eastern USA. PCB ranks second. Many people will drive 3 hours to PCB then fly to Orlando, given these discount fairs. Also, this may open up other cities flying into ECP, the ability to connect to Orlando. Hey, wasn't Peter Rummel former CEO at Disney and at St Joe (which donated the land for the new airport? hmmm???? Think he still has some pull?

**Buz Livingston** · 12-16-2009, 12:29 PM

Woo Hoo!

Our baby girl lives in Houston!

**kurt** · 12-16-2009, 12:31 PM

Originally Posted by NE SoWal'r

Does anyone know when all the cities can start booking. I have been checking to see what the fares will be from Omaha, it does not allow me to make any selections of flights to get prices.

Are they offering special fares everywhere, or just for the direct flights?

The press release says "Southwest is offering these new flights with fares as low as $49 each way to Orlando and $69 each way to Baltimore/Washington, Houston, and Nashville".

The new flights meaning the new non-stop flights from the 4 cities.

I believe booking will be allowed online some time today.

**kurt** · 12-16-2009, 12:33 PM

Originally Posted by Buz Livingston

Woo Hoo!

Our baby girl lives in Houston!

That's great Buz.

I am curious if anyone reading this post from outside the area is going to jump on board a Southwest jet and come visit us.

**Smiling JOe** · 12-16-2009, 12:34 PM

Booking has already began for those four cities, but that's it thus far. I'm guessing that they wanted this to take the headlines first, then, they will roll out the other cities over time.

**Smiling JOe** · 12-16-2009, 12:35 PM

I have family in DC, so BWI (Baltimore) is indeed a good route for me!

**BeachSiO2** · 12-16-2009, 12:46 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

So what's the deal with Baltimore? I have never been but I have been wanting to return to DC. Anyone experienced with flying in and out of Baltimore and the best way to get to DC hotel for sightseeing? Rent car, train? Any advice?

Here's my two cents and hopefully others will chime in. It is a little challenging to reach the city from BWI but with lower fares may be worth it.

As far as public transportation, you have three options, bus to metro, MARC train to union station (metro), Amtrak to union station (metro). With the Bus to Metro and MARC to Metro, each way would take about an hour and cost should be no more than $10. Amtrak depends on which train you catch (not unlike Europe). Cost vary but have an overall shorter time around 30 minutes. The Express trains run more than $30, but you can get a regional train in the $12-18 range depending on time of day (one way)

Taxi fairs will vary but can run somewhere on the order of $80+ one way.

Car rental is available but then you have issues of paying for parking (Driving distance is about 33-35 miles depending on where you are going in DC). I love the public transportation once I reach the city so wouldn't choose car rental. There is the Metro and the Circulator bus that will hit just about everything you need in Downtown. Plus, cab fares aren't too bad if something isn't convenient for you.

**beachmouse** · 12-16-2009, 12:48 PM

Though unless you're booked directly through the Evil Mouse directly and use their airport shuttle services, you can have some pretty significant transportation costs in Orlando if you don't have your own car. And going the other way, it's going to take some work to convince Disney visitors to spend the beach part of their vacations in PCB when the Space Coast and Tampa areas are both easier to get to and have better weather than the Panhandle.

I think that if the route succeeds, it's going to be because a) it catches on with business travellers who need to make a quick overnight trip to the Panhandle or Central Florida area, and/or b) people from around here using the SWA hop to take advantage of cheap international or specialty flights out of MCO.

**Bobby J** · 12-16-2009, 01:46 PM

Ticket to Orlando for $49!!!!! Round trip to Costa for around $260.00 once in Orlando! My life just changed again!

**SWGB** · 12-16-2009, 01:50 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

So what's the deal with Baltimore? I have never been but I have been wanting to return to DC. Anyone experienced with flying in and out of Baltimore and the best way to get to DC hotel for sightseeing? Rent car, train? Any advice?

Any other interesting places or sights around Baltimore? If you were going to Philadelphia or NYC to see the sights would you rent a car or take a train, or a connecting flight?

If you like crabs it's worth it. It's also home to film maker John Waters.

**Just Curious** · 12-16-2009, 01:54 PM

Originally Posted by scooterbug44

Phooey! I was hoping for Chicago or Detroit or NY or something.

Tried to check out some of my fave routes, but Expedia doesn't recognize ECP as an airport code?

Chicago and NY, maybe, but why Detroit

. Who wants to go to Detroit.

**scooterbug44** · 12-16-2009, 01:57 PM

I don't want to go to Detroit, but it's a hub and near some Sowallers.

**Paula** · 12-16-2009, 02:08 PM

I was really hoping for Detroit because we live about 30 minutes from the Detroit airport. So, maybe Delta will come through with some direct flights or at least less expensive flights. Lately, Delta has had some fantastic airfare sales from Detroit to Fort Walton Beach and I hope they keep that up. Lowest fares I've seen since I've started coming to SoWal.

**passin thru** · 12-16-2009, 02:16 PM

If ECP becomes a busy airport, and if the Emerald Coast continues to grow & succeed, then I would imagine an intelligent carrier like Southwest would want to add some more routes.

This list of four is the initial list, we hope, right? ..... the airport doesn't even open for another six months.

**Surfrider28** · 12-16-2009, 02:18 PM

Kind of disappointment, no real big cities expect for Baltimore/DC. Just small to medium cities.

**beachmouse** · 12-16-2009, 02:23 PM

Other than Houston being the 4th largest city in the United State, I guess. Or isn't that big enough?

**Will B** · 12-16-2009, 03:12 PM

Originally Posted by scooterbug44

I don't want to go to Detroit, but it's a hub and near some Sowallers.

It's a NW / DAL hub but not a hub for anybody else. You have to keep in mind, though, that Southwest does not operate on a hub and spoke model like the major carriers. They are point to point. The reason they have chosen the four cities is because their research shows that they are the most likely to bear fruit.

Time will tell...

**destinscuba** · 12-16-2009, 03:32 PM

Originally Posted by singinchicken

It's a NW / DAL hub but not a hub for anybody else. You have to keep in mind, though, that Southwest does not operate on a hub and spoke model like the major carriers. They are point to point. The reason they have chosen the four cities is because their research shows that they are the most likely to bear fruit.

Time will tell...

I would also think that not having the hub & spoke model would make it easier to add/change/remove routes as needed to better serve their customer base flight habits.

**Minnie** · 12-16-2009, 05:09 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

So what's the deal with Baltimore? I have never been but I have been wanting to return to DC. Anyone experienced with flying in and out of Baltimore and the best way to get to DC hotel for sightseeing? Rent car, train? Any advice?

Any other interesting places or sights around Baltimore? If you were going to Philadelphia or NYC to see the sights would you rent a car or take a train, or a connecting flight?

There is a lot to see and do in Baltimore and great food. Here is a synopsis.

The crown jewel of downtown Baltimore, our vibrant and beautiful waterfront is home to dozens of shops, eateries and attractions, all within walking distance of more than 20 major hotels and the expansive Baltimore Convention Center. Take advantage of the diversity of Baltimore’s downtown attractions. In just a few city blocks, you can explore wildlife from the deep and Down Under at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, have a 360-degree Imax experience at the Maryland Science Center, submerge yourself in the courageous journey of African Americans at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture or wander through the pop culture icons of your past at the new Geppi’s Entertainment Museum. Other attractions not to be missed are the one-of-a-kind American Visionary Art Museum, Sports Legends at Camden Yards and Port Discovery, the Children’s Museum. After you’ve worked up a healthy appetite, stop in for a bite to eat at the staggering array of restaurants, eateries and food vendors scattered throughout Harborplace and the surrounding area. With so many delicious options, we are confident that you will find something to satisfy any taste. But wait! Your Baltimore experience only begins at the Inner Harbor. Hop on the Baltimore Water Taxi when the weather is warm or set out on foot to explore other downtown neighborhoods and head off in the direction of your next adventure.

**Johnrudy** · 12-16-2009, 05:17 PM

Originally Posted by SWGB

If you like crabs it's worth it. It's also home to film maker John Waters.

John Waters

**kurt** · 12-16-2009, 06:11 PM

I like John Waters and crabs. Thanks for the info - keep it coming!

**scooterbug44** · 12-16-2009, 06:25 PM

Never been to Baltimore - direct flight at a cheap price may change that!

**SWGB** · 12-16-2009, 06:25 PM

There's the Ravens too, but I've never met anyone that was a fan.

**beachmouse** · 12-16-2009, 06:44 PM

Just don't watch the David Simon tv series before going to Baltimore.

**DuneLaker** · 12-16-2009, 06:58 PM

Originally Posted by SWGB

There's the Ravens too, but I've never met anyone that was a fan.

But, what if we could get free tickets to the game from a favorite local ref?

**aggieb** · 12-16-2009, 07:13 PM

Originally Posted by kurt

I am curious if anyone reading this post from outside the area is going to jump on board a Southwest jet and come visit us.

hails yeah!!! DC would be closest for me.
wait i'm confused (like freakin' always) not so sure 'bout it. they need to put raleigh on that list, stat!! pleeease.

**DuneLaker** · 12-16-2009, 07:24 PM

I've sent an email to the million or so people I know in Houston. They are on the way. (Houston, Texas population 2,245,108 as of Jan. 1, 2009.) Perspective. Walton County population is around 55,000.

**SHELLY** · 12-16-2009, 08:15 PM

Originally Posted by DuneLaker

I've sent an email to the million or so people I know in Houston. They are on the way. (Houston, Texas population 2,245,108 as of Jan. 1, 2009.) Perspective. Walton County population is around 55,000.

You may need to order an extra sofa bed and stock up on toilet paper.

(I personally breathed a sigh of relief when I found out that there were no flights out of Philly or NY)

.

**Minnie** · 12-16-2009, 08:30 PM

Originally Posted by SWGB

There's the Ravens too, but I've never met anyone that was a fan.

Me,

we follow the Ravens because we know Michael Oher (the Blind Side) also have a very good friend that lives in Baltimore.

She is very interested in the flights, as she can come to SoWal now on her way to Orlando.

**DuneLaker** · 12-16-2009, 08:59 PM

Minnie, You being the resident expert on traveling between SoWal and Orlando -- Give us some tips and suggestions on how and when you would make a reservation. Where would you suggest staying? What transportation would you suggest from airport to Orlando destination? What is a good time schedule for trip 3, 5 days, etc.? If people visiting Orlando want to come to the best beaches in the world, I can't imagine them going anywhere else but SoWal. Any suggestions for them?

**30atelevision** · 12-16-2009, 10:26 PM

Watch "Panama City Airport Update Dec 16th"
Transmitting daily 6-10pm Channel 8
After January 1st full time. Look for all new shows and frequent updates

**Minnie** · 12-16-2009, 11:25 PM

Originally Posted by DuneLaker

Minnie, You being the resident expert on traveling between SoWal and Orlando -- Give us some tips and suggestions on how and when you would make a reservation. Where would you suggest staying? What transportation would you suggest from airport to Orlando destination? What is a good time schedule for trip 3, 5 days, etc.? If people visiting Orlando want to come to the best beaches in the world, I can't imagine them going anywhere else but SoWal. Any suggestions for them?

It really depends on what you want to see and do in Orlando, there is so much. Disney, Universal, Sea World etc.

If you are going to Disney, they provide transportation from the airport to any Disney resort hotel included with your room reservation. If you are going to do a little of it all, I really recommend renting a car.

If you are going to see Universal or Disney there are benefits to staying in their hotels.

As to the length of stay it really depends on how much you want to accomplish or just get a taste of it.

The only time I would avoid the area is during the summer, its hot as blazes and very crowded.

**SWGB** · 12-16-2009, 11:54 PM

We were discussing it tonight and it seems like a single person going to Disney (what's the point in that) would be cost effective and easier than renting a car, but the rates are one way so once you get 2 or more people it would seem that driving would be as, or better, economically than flying. Of course if time is an issue I can understand it.

**TreeFrog** · 12-17-2009, 07:05 AM

So, how many folks will want to fly FROM those towns to vacation in SoWal or PCB?

Nashville - Lots of folks there coming here already, so there's some promise, particularly for weekends. For longer visits, seems unlikely - you do get to bring all your stuff in the car/SUV.

Houston - Could be possible. But, we're competing with the Texas beaches, which are much closer.

Baltimore - Does anyone there know we exist? Sounds like a ripe prospect for a PR campaign.

Orlando - Say what? Come FROM Orlando to vacation where?

**bdub** · 12-17-2009, 07:10 AM

As someone who owns on 30A -- but lives most of the year in DC, I can't tell you how excited I am about all this. I can now get to the beach door to door in about 4 hours -- and only 2 hours and ten minutes of that is flying time.

Kurt, I think you would enjoy a trip to Baltimore -- but, remember BWI is only about 35 minutes from your nation's capital. There is plenty to do here -- the smithsonian etc (and you can see where all your hard-earned tax money goes.)

I can tell you, THIS is why we bought in Sowal two years ago. We had heard this might be coming and knew it would be a game changer for the region. This is going to be a huge boost economically. You wanna know why? Cause once people get a load of how wonderful it is -- you won't be able to keep them away.

We are celebrating in DC -- and cannot wait for the Spring -- and direct service.

Bdub