Southwest Airlines introduces “Louisiana One”

Southwest Airlines on March 7 celebrated the state of Louisiana, thanking Customers and Employees for supporting its 39 years of service in New Orleans with the carrier’s latest state-dedicated aircraft—Louisiana One—a Boeing 737-700 (737-7H4 N946WN, msn 36918), emblazoned with an artist’s rendition of the Louisiana State flag.

Southwest began service to New Orleans in 1979, marking the airline’s first destination served beyond its home state of Texas. Southwest today honored Employees and Customers in true New Orleans fashion with a Mardi Gras-inspired celebration kicked off by local musicians. Kelly unveiled the state-dedicated aircraft during an event held at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, following a traditional second line band which led community members, partners, Employees and state and local government officials to where Louisiana One was secretly positioned.

Southwest began service in New Orleans on Jan. 25, 1979, with one daily nonstop departure to Houston (Hobby). The airline currently operates more than 50 daily nonstop departures to 21 destinations from New Orleans.

Louisiana One joins 11other 737s in the Southwest fleet that carry unique, state-themed paint schemes: Arizona One, California One, Colorado One, Florida One, Illinois One, Lone Star One (Texas), Maryland One, Missouri One, Nevada One, New Mexico One and Tennessee One.