Southwest Airlines celebrates 15 years of service today at Orlando International Airport (MCO) with a special anniversary party at the airport. Employees and Customers enjoyed food, FUN, games, and special giveaways from Southwest Airlines! Fifteen Southwest Employees who worked for the airline when it originally began its operation at MCO in 1996 were recognized for their continued service and loyalty to the airline and to the Orlando community.

“For 15 years Southwest Airlines has been giving the people of the greater Orlando area the Freedom to fly with low fares and superb Customer Service. Just as importantly, Southwest Airlines has providedjobs for the people of Orlando, and our Employees are proud to live and work in this great community,” said Orlando Station Manager Stan Cielak.

Since 1996, Southwest Airlines and MCO have been able to create and sustain an important and beneficial partnership. Starting with just 12 daily departures to seven cities, MCO is now the ninth busiest Southwest airport with 110 daily nonstop flights to 33 cities.

“Congratulations, Southwest Airlines, on 15 years of growth here at Orlando International Airport and here in the Central Florida community. Over the past 15 years, Southwest and MCO have shared common interests and goals such as corporate responsibility and excellent customer service and as a result, we’ve both benefitted. Southwest has become the largest carrier at MCO, and MCO has become one of the largest airports in the state of Florida . We look forward to continued growth for both of us in the years to come,” said Executive Director of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Phil Brown.