“Southwest Airlines has only operated at MSP since March 2009, beginning with service to Chicago, but already it has added or announced service to three additional cities as well as increased flight frequencies,” Hamiel said.  “At a time when airlines have been reducing operations across the nation due to economic pressures, it is gratifying to see Southwest continue to grow its presence in Minnesota.”

Beginning August 15, 2010, Southwest will offer twice daily non-stop flights between Minneapolis and Phoenix.  The airline already provides service between MSP and Chicago, Denver and St. Louis.