Southwest reports profitability decline

SOUTHWEST Airlines is believed to be one of the few remaining profitable airlines worldwide, however, according to reports, the carrier is not without its own troubles. The airline reportedly announced a $102m profit for the second quarter of this year, 41.8% less than the $175.6m it made in the same period last year. In addition, reports say that the carrier has lost many of its full-fare passengers, with only 32% of its passengers in the second quarter of this year having paid a full fare, a decline from the 39% during April-June last year. (Heather Ruddock)