Southwest Airlines Launches First-Ever Global Innovation Centre Outside the U.S. in Hyderabad

Southwest Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the United States, has launched its first India Global Innovation Centre in Hyderabad through its wholly owned subsidiary, Southwest Airlines India Private Limited. Shri Duddilla Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, Communications, Industries & Commerce, and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana, inaugurated the new office.

The Hyderabad facility represents “Southwest Airlines’ first-ever Global Innovation Centre outside the United States,” highlighting the company’s commitment to Hyderabad and Telangana as a global innovation destination.

The center will serve as a strategic hub supporting technology, engineering, and enterprise capabilities for secure, scalable aviation operations. The Hyderabad Global Innovation Centre will scale to over 1,000 high-skilled engineers and technology professionals, driving capabilities across deeptech, AI/ML, data science, data analytics, digital engineering, cybersecurity, enterprise platforms, digital operations, and next-generation product development.

During inauguration discussions, leadership met to discuss the company’s long-term growth plans in Hyderabad and Telangana’s expanding role as a global hub for travel, hospitality, aviation technology, and enterprise innovation.

Hyderabad today hosts over 450 Global Capability Centers employing more than 1.35 lakh professionals across technology, financial services, healthcare, aerospace, semiconductors, mobility, and advanced engineering sectors.