Southwest Airlines combats desert heat with new refrigerated trucks
- High summer temperatures in America have put 195 million people at risk due to extreme heat conditions.
- Southwest Airlines has reported issues with beverage cans bursting during flights, particularly in regions with intense heat.
- In response to these challenges, the airline has initiated multi-million dollar improvements, including new refrigerated trucks to protect ground products and crews.
In the United States, particularly across the eastern half, high summer temperatures have left 195 million Americans facing extreme heat as of June 2025. Among the industries challenged by this sweltering weather is air travel, with airlines like Southwest Airlines implementing measures to protect both their crew and passengers. Due to exceptional temperatures in Phoenix, which has seen several weeks exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit in recent summers, beverage cans have begun to burst, creating not only a nuisance but also safety hazards for airline staff. This situation escalated in 2024 when certain crew members reported injuries due to exploding cans during flights. In response to this troubling trend, Southwest Airlines initiated a multi-million dollar initiative to address the heat-related challenges posed to their operations. As part of this initiative, they acquired 60 new refrigerated provisioning trucks designed for their Phoenix and Las Vegas hubs, which are recognized as the airline's hottest operational areas. The older trucks lacked air conditioning, meaning that they could not adequately maintain product integrity. However, the new trucks maintain a cool temperature of 40 degrees, significantly enhancing the preservation of carbonated beverages. The airline's commitment to the comfort and safety of their staff, along with the integrity of their services, aligns with the changing dynamics of climate on operational logistics. Moreover, these refrigerated trucks serve as mobile hydration stations for ground crews, who often bear the brunt of high temperatures while loading and unloading aircraft. This follow-up on hydration and exposure management reflects a proactive stance on worker safety that predates the introduction of the new trucks. John Rawlings, a ground crew member at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, emphasized the importance of worker safety in extreme heat by sharing tips he follows personally. His advice includes staying hydrated and taking measures to minimize sun exposure, particularly during peak heat hours. With the looming challenges of rising temperatures—exacerbated by climate change—companies like Southwest Airlines recognize the urgent need to adapt operations to safeguard not only their business performance but also the health and safety of their employees. This strategic investment illustrates the impact of environmental changes on industry practices and could set a precedent for other airlines facing similar climatic challenges. As summers become hotter and longer, it remains imperative for businesses to evolve their operational responses effectively to ensure both employee welfare and customer service remain uncompromised.