Southwest Airlines is reporting third-quarter profits of $277 million on record revenue of $6.22 billion. Revenue is up more than 32% over the same period last year. Like JetBlue’s recent earnings call, Southwest predicted continued strong travel demand into the 4th quarter. The company expects operating revenue to jump 13% to 17% in the 4th Quarter. Higher fuel costs and the impact of Hurricane Ian squeezed operating margins for all airlines. The airline indicated delays in Boeing 737 deliveries are hampering expansion.
