Long known for its devotion to its employees even in tough times, Southwest Airlines has joined the ranks of those making mass layoffs.
The airline cut about 1,750 jobs—15% of its corporate workforce—in February to rein in fast-rising costs, the Wall Street Journal reports.
This came as a surprise to Southwest staffers, who call themselves Cohearts. In past crises, employees pulled together, such as by chipping in to buy jet fuel when prices surged during the Gulf War, and donating part of their salaries to the company when revenue dried up after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Under pressure to improve financial results, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan outlined a plan to cut $500 million in costs by 2027, putting hiring and promotions on ice and scrubbing the popular festive rallies held for employees around the country as a welcome to the company.
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