Operational Costs Compared: SG&A Analysis of Southwest Airlines Co. and AerCap Holdings N.V.

A Tale of Two Airlines: SG&A Expenses Over Time

In the competitive skies of the airline industry, operational efficiency is paramount. This analysis delves into the Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses of Southwest Airlines Co. and AerCap Holdings N.V. from 2014 to 2023. Over this period, Southwest Airlines consistently outpaced AerCap in SG&A spending, with a peak in 2023 where its expenses were nearly 860% higher than AerCap's. Notably, Southwest's SG&A expenses surged by approximately 93% from 2014 to 2023, reflecting its expansive growth and operational scale. In contrast, AerCap's expenses showed a more modest increase of about 55% over the same period. The data highlights the strategic differences in cost management between these two aviation giants, offering insights into their operational priorities and market strategies. As the industry evolves, understanding these financial dynamics becomes crucial for stakeholders and investors alike.