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Southwest Adds Two Daily Nonstop Flights Between Sarasota–Bradenton (SRQ) and Orlando (MCO) Starting August 5, 2025

| Suncoast Post Staff |

Southwest Airlines has announced a major addition to its Florida network: beginning August 5, 2025, travelers can enjoy two daily nonstop flights between Sarasota–Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Flight Schedule:

  • SRQ → MCO: Morning departure at 7:05 a.m. and late afternoon at 5:50 p.m.
  • MCO → SRQ: Return flights at 10:45 a.m. and 7:45 p.m.
  • Flight time is approximately 55 minutes .

Pricing & Booking:

  • One‑way fares start at just $49.
  • Tickets are currently available via Southwest’s official website

🚀 Why It Matters for Travelers and the Region

  1. Skip the Traffic — Not The Fun
    Driving between SRQ and Orlando often means battling Interstate 4 congestion. These nonstop flights offer a smooth, stress-free alternative—just 55 minutes in the air.
  2. Strengthening Florida Connectivity
    This route is part of Southwest’s four-new intra-Florida services launching in August 2025, which also include Orlando to Miami, Palm Beach, and Fort Myers — all operating twice daily.
  3. SRQ’s Growth Continues
    Sarasota–Bradenton International welcomed a record 4.25 million passengers in 2024 and recently upgraded its facilities, adding a new concourse and observation deck in early 2025 to meet rising demand.
  4. Single Competitive Carrier
    Southwest will become the exclusive airline offering nonstop service from SRQ to Orlando, undercutting drive-time alternatives and bypassing connecting flights that add expensive and time-consuming layers to travel.

Additional Highlights & Context

  • As a boost to convenience, SRQ recently opened a spacious observation deck with live ATC audio, a playground, and scenic views—it’s a new local draw for aviation fans.
  • Southwest is also preparing substantial corporate updates, including assigned seating in 2026 and a new Basic fare tier with baggage fees starting May 28, 2025.
  • Despite the airline’s network expansion in Florida, Southwest will reduce approximately 1,750 corporate positions nationwide as part of its cost-saving measures.

What You Should Do Next

  • Ready to book? Visit Southwest.com and search SRQ → MCO to unlock early $49 fares—availability may vary, so act fast.
  • Plan ahead: With two round trips daily, this route opens great opportunities for weekend getaways, Disney excursions, business day trips, or visiting friends and family in Central Florida.
  • Stay informed: If you’re a Rapid Rewards member, booking now locks in early pricing and lets you accumulate those valuable loyalty points.

In summary, Southwest Airlines is launching two daily nonstop flights between Sarasota–Bradenton and Orlando starting August 5 for as low as $49, offering a fast and convenient alternative to I‑4 traffic. These flights are part of a sweeping intra‑Florida expansion from Southwest, and coincide with recent improvements at SRQ that make it an even better airport to fly from.

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