This specific designation refers to a particular scheduled air journey operated by Southwest Airlines. Airlines use flight numbers to uniquely identify their services, allowing for efficient tracking, scheduling, and passenger identification. Each number acts as a shorthand for a specific route, departure and arrival times, and aircraft assigned to a journey.
Utilizing these numerical identifiers provides significant organizational advantages for airlines and passengers. They facilitate clear communication, streamline booking procedures, and enable precise tracking of individual aircraft. Understanding this system is vital for travelers and those within the aviation industry, allowing for effective communication and efficient operations. This information is especially relevant when accessing specific flight information, such as schedules, gate assignments, or baggage tracking. Historical data associated with a specific designation may also offer insights into past performance and reliability.