OREANDA-NEWS.    Southwest Airlines announced today its decision to close three cities in the airline's network.  On June 7, 2014, Southwest will cease operations at Branson Airport (BKG), Key West International Airport (EYW), and Jackson-Evers International Airport (JAN). Southwest began service to Jackson-Evers International in 1997.  The airline added Branson Airport and Key West International Airport to its route map in 2012 as part of its integration with AirTran, a wholly-owned subsidiary.

"Unfortunately, the level of local demand no longer allows Southwest to profitably serve these markets," said Bob Jordan, Southwest's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "Southwest takes pride in becoming not only a great choice for air travel in the cities we serve, but we also become a member of the community. These decisions are never easy."

The Company's priority is to take excellent care of its dedicated Employees, Partners, and Customers in these markets. Southwest Employees at these locations have performed superbly and will have the opportunity to move elsewhere within the airline, after operations cease next year.