s also minimizes the lengthy check-in processes by eliminating physical transactions between customer service representatives and the consumer. All that is a reservation number and a form of identification to receive a reusable boarding pass, which enables the customer to board quickly.Southwest's no-frill approach reduces preparation time by eliminating the time required for three optional services. The first service to be bypassed is the meal distribution by flight attendants. Southwest does not serve meals on any flight regardless of duration. This severely reduces the time required of planes while sitting at the terminal. Second, Southwest does not offer reserve seating on any of its flights. Passengers are asked to select the first available seat. This reduces boarding time by allowing all customers to board in an orderly fashion, but not mandating a seat. The last technique used by Southwest to enhance on-time departure is a single class, seating array. Associated with the last service, this does not give any passenger special boarding privileges, delaying the departure.Southwest Airlines has increased its profitability through a strategic alliance with Icelandair. This agreement has expanded Southwest's service to Europe. This new international capability of the airline has allowed the company to enter a new market. Although they are not yet fully competitive in the international market, their steady growth will likely produce an increase in market share in the years to come. This is a huge step considering the youth of the company.Southwest has consistently offered airfares that are substantially cheaper than its competitors. Larger competitors are unable to meet the prices of Southwest without incurring substantial losses. "For example, in the first quarter of 1991, Southwest's operating costs per available seat mile were fifteen percent lower than America West's costs, twenty-nine percent lower than Delta's, thi...
