Southwest Airlines announced its’ plans to expand their service to/from California. The airline plans to add several new routes to/from San Jose, CA and Sacramento to desitnations throughout the country. Additionally the ailirne plans to Saturday service to Cancun from both Columbus, Ohio, and New Orleans.

Per Southwest Airlines,

Southwest Airlines announced a substantial investment for its California travelers and communities served as it extended its bookable flight schedule through June 1, 2018. Carrying more passengers to, from, and within the great state of California1, Southwest is thanking its loyal Golden State Customers with even more flights including nearly 20 new nonstop routes and increasing frequency to 27 existing routes as well as opening new international gateways.

Effective March 10, 2018, new nonstop service will be offered on Saturdays between both California cities of San Jose and Sacramento and San Jose del Cabo/Cabo San Lucas, subject to requisite government approvals. Additionally, San Diego Customers will be able to enjoy nonstop service on Saturdays and Sundays to and from Puerto Vallarta, complementing daily international service between San Diego and San Jose del Cabo/Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Additionally, seasonal service begins on Sunday, April 8, 2018 between Houston and Portland, Ore. and weekend service between Denver and Charleston, S.C. Weekly service on Saturdays between Albuquerque and Orlando, and between Kansas City and Pensacola, Fla., will start on April 14, 2018.

Bottom Line

I’m thrilled to see that Southwest is adding more service down to/from California as well as more routes to Mexico. More routes means increased competition which could continue to help drive down flight prices.

If you’re looking to redeem Rapid Rewards points for these flights, remembers Southwest is a transfer partner of Chase Ultimate Rewards if you need to transfer over some miles.

What are your thoughts on these latest route announcements from Southwest?