Breaking Down SG&A Expenses: Southwest Airlines Co. vs Curtiss-Wright Corporation

A Tale of Two Giants: SG&A Expenses in the Aviation and Defense Sectors

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate finance, understanding the nuances of Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial. This analysis juxtaposes the SG&A expenses of Southwest Airlines Co. and Curtiss-Wright Corporation from 2014 to 2023. Over this period, Southwest Airlines, a leader in the aviation industry, saw its SG&A expenses soar by nearly 1,800%, peaking in 2023. This reflects the airline's aggressive expansion and marketing strategies. In contrast, Curtiss-Wright, a stalwart in the defense sector, maintained a steady SG&A growth of around 16%, highlighting its focus on operational efficiency. The stark difference in these trends underscores the diverse strategic priorities of these two industry giants. As we delve deeper into these figures, it becomes evident that SG&A expenses are not just numbers; they are a window into a company's strategic soul.