What type of maintenance does Southwest Airlines perform on its fleet?

The correct answer highlights the importance of adhering to FAA regulations, which mandate the standards and frequency of maintenance for commercial airline fleets. Southwest Airlines, like all carriers, is required to maintain their aircraft to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance with federal aviation standards. This involves conducting regular scheduled maintenance and inspections.

Regular scheduled maintenance ensures that all aircraft are systematically checked for functionality and safety, minimizing the risk of mechanical failures. Inspections include comprehensive checks of key systems, engines, airframes, and components, thereby extending the operational lifespan of the aircraft and maintaining high safety standards for passengers and crew.

Focusing solely on emergency repairs would neglect the preventative measures that are essential in aviation safety. Moreover, while external contractors may be used for various tasks, the primary maintenance responsibility falls on the airline itself to ensure compliance and operational integrity. Lastly, while customer requests might influence some aspects of service, they do not dictate the core maintenance practices that airlines must follow to operate safely and legally.