Southwest returning to Jackson airport in 2021

Southwest Airlines will be returning to the Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport after more than six years.

The Jackson Municipal Airport Authority announced Thursday that Southwest intends to restore its legendary service to Jackson in 2021. The airline previously served JAN from 1997 until 2014.

Southwest Airlines is the largest domestic carrier with an impressive international route network as well.

“It’s great news for our city and great news for travelers throughout the region who have been missing access to Southwest’s accessible flights and low fares,” said Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba in a statement. “I want to applaud the JMAA Board of Commissioners and CEO for their hard work and vision. JAN has become a strong regional competitor and Southwest’s return is the most recent evidence of their efforts.”

“The JMAA is thrilled to welcome back Southwest Airlines,” said JMAA Board Chairman Robert E. Martin, “and I feel sure that the citizens of Jackson and central Mississippi will find this news very exciting. As U.S. travel recovers in 2021, we look forward to hosting more and more passengers at JAN.”

More details regarding startup dates, fares and routes will be released as they become available.