Timmee,
I am sure there are improvments on the original LCC model, but they all try and mold themselves on SWA because it is such a sucessful formula. If Jet Blue can do it and do it well that is great news because it means that another company has 'cracked' the SWA code.
Many have tried to use the model and failed because the basic underlying factor is that you have to empower and entrust your emplyees. SWA employees all profit share and are encouraged to think outside the box.
SWA has turned a profit every year since 1975 and that includes 2001 when all the rest suffered enourmous losses.
It sounds great, but name one airline in Oz that would be prepared to do that?
So well done to Jet Blue, to be honest I didn't realise they were that far advanced.