The Dallas City Council has approved a long-term lease extension with Southwest Airlines, securing the carrier’s use of 18 gates at Dallas Love Field Airport through September 2040.
The current lease was set to expire in September 2028, but the Department of Aviation proposed early execution of a new Use and Lease Agreement to ensure financial and operational stability as passenger traffic continues to rise. In 2024, Dallas Love Field served over 16 million passengers.
“This renewed commitment ensures Dallas Love Field remains a strong hub for travel and economic development,” said Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson. “For over 50 years, Southwest has been a cornerstone of the airport and a key partner to the city.”
The agreement allows the city to maintain efficient operations, reduce congestion, and sustain reliable service for residents and businesses. Enplanements are projected to reach approximately 10 million annually by 2026.
“We applaud the leadership of Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson and City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert,” said Bob Jordan, CEO of Southwest Airlines. “The capital investments under this new agreement will help ensure our home at Love Field remains a premier airport with enhancements to the Customer experience for years to come.”
Southwest Airlines, which launched its first flight from Love Field in 1971, remains the dominant carrier at the airport. The early agreement establishes a framework for long-term planning and infrastructure investment to support continued growth.
