It is with a heavy heart that we report the passing of Herb Kelleher, the legendary founder of Southwest Airlines. Kelleher, a true visionary and maverick in the airline industry, died on January 3, 2019, at the age of 87. His innovative approach to air travel, characterized by low fares, friendly service, and a unique corporate culture, revolutionized the industry and made air travel accessible to millions. Kelleher's legacy extends far beyond just an airline; he built a company known for its passionate employees, unwavering commitment to customers, and a fun-loving spirit that permeated every aspect of the business. His death marks the end of an era, but his impact on the world of aviation and business will continue to be felt for generations to come.

A Maverick's Vision: Herb Kelleher's Impact on Aviation

Herb Kelleher wasn't your typical airline executive. A lawyer by training, he had no prior experience in the aviation industry when he and Rollin King sketched out the idea for Southwest Airlines on a cocktail napkin in 1967. Their vision was simple: to create an airline that offered low fares and frequent flights within Texas, making air travel more affordable and convenient for everyone. This was a radical idea at the time, as air travel was still considered a luxury for the wealthy.

Kelleher's genius lay not only in his business acumen but also in his understanding of people. He recognized that the key to success was to create a company culture that valued employees, customers, and fun. He fostered a work environment where employees felt empowered, appreciated, and encouraged to be themselves. This, in turn, translated into exceptional customer service and a loyal following.

Southwest Airlines, under Kelleher's leadership, pioneered many innovative practices that are now commonplace in the industry. These include point-to-point routes, which allowed for faster turnaround times and more frequent flights; a single aircraft type (the Boeing 737), which simplified maintenance and training; and a focus on secondary airports, which often had lower fees and less congestion. These strategies allowed Southwest to keep its costs down and offer fares that were significantly lower than those of its competitors.

Kelleher's impact on the aviation industry is undeniable. He proved that it was possible to create a successful airline by prioritizing customers, empowering employees, and challenging the status quo. His legacy continues to inspire airlines around the world to adopt similar strategies and to focus on creating a positive and engaging customer experience.

The Birth of an Icon: Southwest Airlines' Early Days

The journey of Southwest Airlines wasn't without its challenges. Herb Kelleher and Rollin King faced numerous legal battles from established airlines who sought to prevent them from entering the market. These airlines argued that Southwest's low fares would disrupt the industry and threaten their profitability. However, Kelleher, a skilled litigator, fought tirelessly to defend Southwest's right to fly, ultimately winning a landmark Supreme Court case that paved the way for the airline's launch.

Southwest Airlines officially began operations on June 18, 1971, with flights between Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. From the outset, the airline distinguished itself with its friendly and unconventional approach. Flight attendants wore hot pants and go-go boots, and passengers were encouraged to have fun. Kelleher himself was known for his quirky personality and his willingness to poke fun at himself and the airline. This created a unique and memorable experience for passengers, helping Southwest to quickly gain a loyal following.

In its early years, Southwest Airlines faced numerous financial challenges. However, Kelleher's leadership and his unwavering belief in the company's mission helped to steer it through these difficult times. He made tough decisions, such as selling one of the airline's four aircraft to raise capital, but he always remained committed to his employees and his customers.

Despite the challenges, Southwest Airlines continued to grow and expand throughout the 1970s and 1980s. The airline's low fares and friendly service attracted passengers from all walks of life, and its innovative business model allowed it to thrive in a highly competitive industry. By the end of the 20th century, Southwest Airlines had become one of the most successful and admired airlines in the world, a testament to Herb Kelleher's vision and leadership.

More Than Just an Airline: Kelleher's Unique Corporate Culture

Herb Kelleher's greatest achievement may not have been building a successful airline, but rather creating a unique and enduring corporate culture. He believed that the key to success was to treat employees with respect and empower them to make decisions. He fostered a work environment where employees felt valued, appreciated, and encouraged to be themselves. This, in turn, translated into exceptional customer service and a loyal following.

Kelleher famously said, "Your employees come first. And if you treat your employees right, guess what? Your customers come back, and that makes your shareholders happy. Begin with employees and the rest follows from that." This philosophy permeated every aspect of Southwest Airlines' operations. Employees were given considerable autonomy and were encouraged to use their own judgment to solve problems and satisfy customers. This created a sense of ownership and pride among employees, who were highly motivated to provide exceptional service.

Southwest Airlines' culture was also characterized by a strong sense of fun and camaraderie. Kelleher himself was known for his playful personality and his willingness to participate in company events. He often dressed up in costumes, told jokes, and even arm-wrestled employees. This created a relaxed and informal atmosphere that helped to break down barriers between management and employees.

The unique corporate culture at Southwest Airlines became a major competitive advantage. It attracted and retained talented employees, fostered innovation, and created a strong sense of loyalty among customers. Other companies have tried to replicate Southwest's culture, but few have been successful. This is because Kelleher's vision was not just about implementing specific policies or programs, but about creating a fundamental shift in the way employees were treated and valued.

A Lasting Legacy: Remembering Herb Kelleher

Herb Kelleher's death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of business leaders. He was a true visionary who challenged the status quo and proved that it was possible to create a successful company by prioritizing people, having fun, and doing things differently. His impact on the aviation industry and the world of business is immeasurable.

Kelleher's contributions have been widely recognized. He was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2008 and was named one of the "World's Greatest Leaders" by Fortune magazine in 2011. He received numerous other awards and accolades throughout his career, but he always remained humble and down-to-earth.

Beyond his business achievements, Kelleher will be remembered for his generosity, his sense of humor, and his genuine love for people. He was a mentor to countless individuals and a friend to many. He leaves behind a company that is not only successful but also deeply admired for its commitment to its employees, its customers, and its community.

As the aviation industry mourns the loss of Herb Kelleher, it is important to celebrate his extraordinary life and his lasting legacy. He was a true original who changed the way we fly and the way we do business. His spirit of innovation, his commitment to people, and his unwavering belief in the power of fun will continue to inspire us all.

Rest in peace, Herb. Your legacy will forever soar high above the clouds.