Southwest Airlines Settles $140M Fine with DOT for 2022 Holiday Meltdown

Southwest Airlines has reached a $140 million settlement with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) following the chaotic holiday season in 2022 when nearly 17,000 flights were canceled, leaving over two million travelers stranded. The settlement includes a $35 million fine, the largest in DOT history, which will primarily be used to compensate affected passengers. The DOT found that Southwest violated consumer protection laws by failing to provide adequate customer service assistance and prompt flight status notifications. Southwest will also receive credit for compensation already provided and will distribute $90 million in vouchers to future travelers.