It’s not Herb’s Southwest anymore

Layoffs are awful for people who lose their jobs. But are they bad for business? Also: JetBlue's loyalty push, and United apparently is paying more for food.

Dear readers,

Before I left on my trip to Bangkok,¹ I generally agreed with the widespread commentary about Southwest's layoffs: that the airline’s abrupt and aggressive approach (1,750 people at once) would disrupt the company's revered culture, which we know is a big reason for its long-term success. But by the time I reached my destination, I had changed my mind. I now understand (and mostly endorse) Southwest’s decision.