Passenger Service: Southwest Entertainment primarily served as a charter carrier transporting personnel, executives, and equipment associated with the oil and gas industry. The airline also offered occasional cargo flights.
Aircraft Fleet: Southwest Entertainment initially utilized small planes, such as the Douglas DC-3, for charter services. As it expanded operations, the airline incorporated larger aircraft, including the Fokker F27 Friendship and the Convair 640.
Business Model: Southwest Entertainment focused on providing reliable, efficient, and personalized charter services to its oil and gas clients. It prioritized safety and customer service while adapting its operations to meet specific industry needs.
Destinations: The airline mainly operated within Texas and the surrounding states, including cities like Dallas, Houston, Midland-Odessa, Shreveport, and Tulsa. However, it also occasionally ventured into other regions of the United States, particularly during busy travel periods.
Merger and Closure: In 1985, Southwest Entertainment merged with a larger regional carrier named Air Central. The merger resulted in the creation of Southwest Airlines, which is now a major U.S. low-cost carrier known for its "Wanna Get Away" fares and friendly customer service.
The legacy of Southwest Entertainment lies in its contributions to the oil and gas industry during its active years. The airline's reputation for safety, reliability, and customer focus allowed it to successfully navigate the competitive aviation industry until its eventual merger and transformation into the popular Southwest Airlines.
