Bellingham community members are circulating a petition to try to encourage Southwest Airlines to maintain its operations at the Bellingham International Airport (BLI) after the airline announced it would end its service there by August 4, 2024.
“We urge Southwest Airlines to reconsider this decision and continue providing its invaluable services to the residents of Bellingham beyond August 2024. We believe it’s crucial not just for us but also for countless other families who depend on their services to stay connected with loved ones,” the petition’s description states.
Southwest Airlines announced last week that it would no longer offer services in or out of the Bellingham International Airport based on the company’s 2024 first-quarter financial results, which showed a net loss of $231 million.
Southwest attributed the loss to changes in customer travel patterns and preferences, higher fuel prices, and Boeing’s aircraft delivery delays.
The Change.org petition was started by Anneke Palmerton and published April 27, two days after the announcement by Southwest.
More than 1,300 people had signed the petition by Tuesday afternoon, with a total goal of 1,500 signatures.
“Southwest Airlines is one of only three major airlines operating out of BLI. It stands out for its full flights, affordability, and reliability. Its departure would leave a significant void in our community’s transportation options. We would be left with expensive or unreliable alternatives that do not meet the needs of our vibrant community,” the petition states.
“The decision to discontinue service from BLI is a huge mistake that will affect many lives beyond ours. Every flight we’ve been on has been full — a clear indication of the high demand for their services here in Bellingham,” the petition states.
Many of the petition’s supporters left public comments on the petition expressing their concerns about the airline ending its local services.
“Southwest in Bellingham is vital for the community and our travelers and workers. I can’t imagine not having it,” said petition signer Dustin Jackson.
“I fly to Bellingham OFTEN to visit family! Taking SW flights out of the terminal is going to jack up all the Alaska flights forever. There’s not enough flights to Bellingham as it is. Your airplanes are full leaving Bellingham to Seattle. Those flights are very much needed,” said petition signer Karen Ott.
Southwest Airlines did not respond to a request for comment from The Bellingham Herald before publication. But the airline’s announcement about ending its operations locally labeled Bellingham International Airport, along with three other airports, as “underperforming markets” for the company.
Port of Bellingham Aviation Director Kip Turner previously told The Herald the airport intends to fill the loss in service with another airline, although he declined to offer specifics as no decisions had been finalized.
Southwest Airlines flies direct from Bellingham International Airport to Las Vegas, Oakland and Denver. It will continue to offer full service through August 4.
Bellingham International Airport still offers flights through Alaska Airlines, Allegiant and San Juan Airlines.
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