Low Cost Airlines
Ready for Takeoff in India

A quick turnaround strategy was more relevant to Southwest than to its competitors as it had a point-to-point flight between cities rather than a hub-and-spoke network³ . A hub-and-spoke system was characterized by longer wait time for both passengers and airplanes, more planes, extra computer systems, extra salaries to ground staff and additional commissions to travel agents. In addition, the airlines had to pay rent for the gates, as the planes were kept idle at airports waiting for the connecting flights. Recognizing these disadvantages, Southwest persisted with its point-to-point flights between cities. However, according to industry sources, a hub generates up to 20% more revenue per plane than a comparable point-to-point flight. Airlines with point-to-point flights had to be extremely cost-effective. There are many ways of being cost-effective such as cheap labor and cheap equipment. But Southwest chose quicker turnaround of its aircrafts.

Southwest discovered different ways to speed the turnaround of its aircraft. It used only one type of aircraft - the Boeing 737. This ensured interchangeability of crews, furnishings and spare parts, and maintenance was more uniform. It also used less congested airports to avoid disrupting flight operations and to maximize aircraft time in the air. It also offered limited services: no in-flight meals - only beverages and snacks. This reduced cost and turnaround time.

[2] A registered trademark for a certain kind of aircraft loading bridge, which allowed passengers direct access to an aircraft from the terminal.
[3] A system for deploying aircraft that enables a carrier to increase service options at all airports covered by the system. It uses a strategically located airport (the hub) as a passenger exchange point for flights to and from outlying towns and cities (the spokes).