Southwest Airlines seeks approval for more flights at Reagan Airport

Southwest Airlines is asking the Department of Transportation for more landing rights for flights at Reagan Washington National Airport.

Gate space for flights at Reagan airport, or "slots," is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) because of airplane traffic congestion in the northeast. The FAA similarly manages flights at New York's LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports.

Southwest said Friday it was seeking slots for flights to Houston's William P. Hobby (HOU) that were previously used by Spirit Airlines.

The airline said on its application to the FAA that its service on the ground would lower fares between Houston and Washington, D.C.

"Houston is one of Southwest Airlines' three original cities, and this proposed new service is another example of our strong commitment to continue adding value to the community," Southwest CEO Gary Kelly said in a statement touting a petition to support the airline's application.

"By taking action now at www.Southwest.com/HOU-DCA, Houstonians and all travelers can make their voices heard that competition is a good thing, and lower fares are vitally important in these challenging economic times," Kelly said.

Southwest currently flies to Houston for the Thurgood Marshall Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI).

The airline said it expects a decision on its slot application for Reagan early in 2013.

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