"The TWU negotiating committee quickly grasped the potential benefits along with the added operational complexities associated with adding the -800 to our fleet. The fact that we can have these discussions over the course of a couple of meetings and quickly find a common ground that is a win for our Company and our Flight Attendants is a testament to the collaboration and long-term vision of the Flight Attendants' Union Leadership."  

If the Company pursues the -800, a joint committee would meet to work on the logistical details related to scheduling and bidding procedures that adding a fourth Flight Attendant will require.  If approved by a majority vote of the Flight Attendants, their current contract also will be extended by one year, becoming amendable May 31, 2013, and also include the potential for wage rate increases based on the Company's financial performance. Southwest Airlines current fleet consist of 175 Boeing 737-300, 125 Boeing 737-500 and 350 Boeing 737-700. 

"The decision to add the -800 still isn't final; we are still in discussion with our Pilots Union, SWAPA, and are continuing to evaluate network and configuration options. As such, any details regarding firm orders with Boeing, timing, and quantity of deliveries are still to be determined".  

Southwest Airlines is an American low-cost airline. The airline has its headquarters on the grounds of Dallas Love Field in Dallas, Texas. Southwest is the largest airline in the world by number of passengers carried per year (as of 2009). Southwest maintains the third-largest passenger fleet of aircraft among all of the world's commercial airlines. As of May 3, 2009, Southwest operates approximately 3,510 flights daily.