Southwest Airlines has taken legal action against San Antonio, accusing the city of unfairly allocating terminal space at San Antonio International Airport. The airline claims officials predetermined the new terminal’s gate assignments, leaving Southwest stuck in an outdated and cramped facility. Internal documents suggest that city officials made decisions behind closed doors, ensuring that Southwest Airlines remained in Terminal A, which is too small to meet demand.
The airline believes the city is sidelining its passengers based on travel habits. San Antonio reportedly sees Southwest’s customers as less desirable because they do not use lounges or book premium seats. As a result, the city plans to build a modern terminal while forcing 37% of airport travelers—who fly Southwest Airlines—to stay in an outdated facility. Despite being the airport’s leading airline, Southwest Airlines is facing higher fees that help fund the new terminal, which the city refuses to allocate fairly.
Southwest Airlines is urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to step in and hold San Antonio accountable. The airline outlined multiple violations, including excessive fees and unfair contract terms. The city classified Southwest as a non-signatory airline during negotiations, worsening the financial burden. Additionally, the city failed to consult airlines properly and ignored Southwest’s expansion plans.
The airport’s new terminal is part of the ELEVATE/SAT expansion, expected to open by 2028. It will feature 17 new gates and more lounge space, accommodating projected passenger growth through 2040. However, without FAA intervention, Southwest Airlines argues that unfair policies will set a dangerous precedent for future airport expansions.
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