Additional Security Measures Implemented for Washington, D.C. Area Operations

Update

The Safety and comfort of our Employees and Customers is always our top priority, both in the airport and onboard our aircraft, and Southwest continues monitoring current events in the Washington, D.C. area. The TSA and other local and federal law enforcement agencies have bolstered their presence in the region's airports, and we appreciate their leadership, guidance, and increased support. Additionally, while this is not an exhaustive list, here are a few ways Southwest is working to create a safe experience for our Customers and Employees during this challenging time for our nation:

  • Ongoing coordination with the FAA: We are in contact with the FAA regarding recent events. Yesterday, the FAA announced the Special Emphasis Enforcement Program (SEEP). The program issued an order to FAA inspectors and the FAA Counsel's office requiring that any issues of targeted passenger misbehavior that are reported to the FAA will receive priority, expedited handling, and resolution. For unruly Customers that fit this criteria, there will be no warning letters. Instead, the FAA will proceed directly to enforcement of monetary civil penalties against offending individuals. We welcome this increased action in support of our Crews and Employees.
  • Daily coordination with the TSA and Law Enforcement: In partnership with Airlines for America (A4A), the TSA convenes daily calls, which include Southwest Security Directors, and these calls will continue throughout the inauguration time period to ensure all air carriers are informed of ongoing developments. We are also working with local authorities to ensure situations where a law enforcement officer is needed are handled consistently throughout the system.
  • Checked Firearms: Southwest will temporarily stop accepting firearms for transport to/from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Ronald Reagan International Airport (DCA), and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) from Saturday, January 16 through Sunday, January 31, 2021, with the exception of credentialed Law Enforcement Officers and Military traveling on military orders. Southwest is taking this voluntary measure to bolster security practices in the wake of recent events in the nation’s capital. The Safety and security of Employees and Customers is our utmost priority at all times, and we appreciate the cooperation and compliance of all those who choose to travel with us over the coming days.
  • Review of No-Fly List: We are continuing to work with the TSA to adhere to any additions or updates on the Federal No-Fly List. We are staying in close coordination with the TSA to remain aligned on the list.
  • Alcohol Service Remains Suspended: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Southwest currently only offers ice and water on flights, and we do not serve alcohol.
  • Crew Hotels: For added security, we do not have any Crews slated to overnight in downtown D.C. area hotels.
  • Mask Compliance: We regularly communicate Southwest's requirement for face coverings, and Customers are sent pre-trip emails with reminders about this expected behavior. Additionally, all Customers are required to acknowledge Southwest's face covering requirement via the Customer Health Declaration that appears during the check-in process on our website, mobile app, mobile website, and airport kiosks. We've also increased our reminder announcements about this requirement in the gate areas prior to boarding and onboard our aircraft.

As always, we appreciate the spirit of cooperation and compliance among all those traveling with us as Safety and Security are of paramount importance to the entire Southwest Team.

Stay Connected

For Reporters Seeking
Answers to Questions

Phone 214-792-4847, Opt. 1

Email swamedia@wnco.com

Additional Contacts