How's about affordable and simple. While possibly not the most popular airline among the pilot fraternity, they have provided a huge number of jobs, they have kick-started quite a number of local economies and have provided air travel to hundreds of thousands of people who couldn't have dreamt of affording air travel 15-20 years ago.
Which is precisely what Southwest have done, in case you havent noticed
There are huge differences between Ryanair and Southwest, however a couple of key things come to mind from a SLF's point of view.
1. Dont expect any customer service from Ryanair, at Southwest you receive a similar level of service to a full-service airline..
2. Most of the Cabin crew speak english as a FIRST language unlike Ryanair.
3. A genuine attempt is made by Southwest to provide a pleasant experience (within the confines of a Lo Co model)..anyone here felt the same way about Ryanair?
As employees...the difference becomes more like night and day, and without going into tedious detail..I know who I would prefer to work for...and the name doesnt start with "R"
Southwest are perfectly entitled to castigate Ryanair...after all, they are bigger than Ryan..and can afford better lawyers.