---
title: "Southwest leads satisfaction survey after sweeping policy shifts"
type: "News"
locale: "en"
url: "https://longbridge.com/en/news/286222624.md"
description: "Southwest Airlines has topped J.D. Power’s economy and basic economy rankings for the fifth consecutive year, despite undergoing significant operational and policy changes. These changes include the introduction of assigned seating, baggage fees, new fare types, layoffs, and expanded sales channels due to investor pressure. Additionally, the airline industry is grappling with a pilot shortage caused by lengthy training requirements, limited school capacity, and an aging workforce."
datetime: "2026-05-13T08:23:18.000Z"
locales:
  - [zh-CN](https://longbridge.com/zh-CN/news/286222624.md)
  - [en](https://longbridge.com/en/news/286222624.md)
  - [zh-HK](https://longbridge.com/zh-HK/news/286222624.md)
---

# Southwest leads satisfaction survey after sweeping policy shifts

Five-year streak: Southwest topped J.D. Power’s economy and basic economy rankings for the fifth straight year despite significant operational and policy changes. Policy overhaul: Changes included assigned seating, baggage fees, new fare types, layoffs, and broader sales channels following investor pressure. Pilot supply challenge: The industry faces a pilot shortage tied to lengthy training requirements, limited school capacity, and an aging workforce.

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