Southwest Airlines announces as much as $15 million loss from government shutdown

Southwest Airlines announced Thursday that the ongoing government shutdown has cost the airline an estimated $10-$15 million in revenue.

While the cost is relatively small, the company is anxious about the impact of the shutdown as it continues.

Marking its 46th consecutive year of profitability Southwest took in $5.7 billion in revenue during the last quarter as travel demand remains high, according to an earnings release.

“Based on current revenue trends, our cost outlook, and energy futures, we are currently expecting a strong first quarter 2019 financial performance. We are well-positioned to generate stellar annual after-tax returns on capital in 2019, barring any unforeseen events,” the company said.

The company noted that expanding its service to Hawaii is still a focus for 2019 pending authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration. FAA workers that oversee the operation were furloughed during the shutdown, dragging out the yearlong process.

“We are anxious for the government to resolve this shutdown so we can bring low fares and a boost to Hawaii’s travel and tourism industry,” Southwest said.