Like a spurned suitor, Colorado Springs officials tried in vain for more than 20 years to woo much-coveted Southwest Airlines and its discount airfares to the city.
But after years of rejection and disappointment, everything changed for Colorado Springs in just a matter of a few weeks. Now, Southwest is poised to launch service in March from the Colorado Springs Airport.
As unlikely as it might seem, air travelers looking forward to Southwestâs discount fares can thank the COVID-19 pandemic, in part, for opening the door to the carrierâs decision to consider Colorado Springs. Then, signs of growth around the Springsâ airport and an array of new city amenities and public improvements helped dazzle Southwest officials, who also were given a promise of $2.5 million in public and private incentives to help seal the deal.