Southwest Airlines employees fear it's becoming just any other airline: Big job cuts eat away at its culture, they say.
1. Southwest Airlines cuts 15% of its HQ staff in its first mass layoff. Employees express concern over diluted company culture. 2. Core culture teams, including hospitality and training units, face significant staff reductions. Worries arise about losing its unique, fun identity. 3. Operational changes include ending open seating for assigned seating next year. This shift may erode the airline’s renowned customer experience. 4. Activist investor Elliott drives sweeping cost-cut measures and fleet upgrades. These moves spark debate on long-term brand implications.