DALLAS - Southwest Airlines announced today its decision to close three cities in the airline's network.  On June 7, 2014, Southwest will cease operations at Branson Airport (BKG), Key West International Airport (EYW), and Jackson-Evers International Airport (JAN). Southwest began service to Jackson-Evers International in 1997. 

The airline added Branson Airport and Key West International Airport to its route map in 2012 as part of its integration with AirTran, a wholly-owned subsidiary.

Bob Jordan, Southwest's executive vice president and chief commercial officer, said: "Unfortunately, the level of local demand no longer allows Southwest to profitably serve these markets.

"Southwest takes pride in becoming not only a great choice for air travel in the cities we serve, but we also become a member of the community. These decisions are never easy."

According to a company press statement: the Company's priority is to take excellent care of its dedicated employees, partners, and customers in these markets. Southwest employees at these locations have performed superbly and will have the opportunity to move elsewhere within the airline, after operations cease next year.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) is the world's largest low-cost carrier, headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The airline was established in 1967 and adopted their current name in 1971. 

The airline has more than 46,000 employees.

As of June 5, 2011, it carries the most domestic passengers of any U.S. airline. As of August 2013, Southwest Airlines has scheduled service to 89 destinations in 42 states and Puerto Rico.

Southwest Airlines has solely operated Boeing 737s, except for a few years in the 1970s and 1980s, when they operated a few Boeing 727s.

As of August 2012, Southwest is the largest operator of the 737 worldwide with over 550 in service, each operating an average of six flights per day.