- by foxnews
- 06 May 2026
The airline announced the launch of "Independence One," a specially designed plane featuring red, white and blue elements tied to the nation's founding.
"With our new 'Independence One' and 'Liberty One' aircraft, we honor this important milestone in our nation's history," Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said in a statement.
The airline also announced a partnership with America250, the organization leading the nationwide celebration of the country's semiquincentennial.
The funding builds on more than 180,000 hours of volunteer service logged by Southwest employees in 2025, according to the company.
"As America marks its 250th anniversary, Southwest Airlines' legacy of connecting people and communities reflects the spirit of freedom and opportunity that defines our nation," Rosie Rios, chair of America250, said in a statement.
The aircraft will continue to fly routes across the country throughout the year as part of the broader America250 celebration.
Fox News Digital reached out to Southwest Airlines for further comment.
A viral social media post captured an unruly passenger opening a plane's emergency door after hours on the tarmac on a Chicago-bound flight leaving Atlanta.
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