In what year did Southwest Airlines go public?

Southwest Airlines went public in 1971, making this the correct answer. This year is significant as it marked the beginning of the airline's expansion beyond its initial markets in Texas and facilitated its ability to raise capital through public investment. Going public allowed Southwest to finance growth and development initiatives, ultimately leading to its rise as a major player in the airline industry. The process of becoming a publicly traded company played a crucial role in the airline's strategic plans, allowing it to enhance its operational capabilities and expand its route network. This was a pivotal moment in the company’s history that helped shape its future direction.