Form: S-8

Initial registration statement for securities to be offered to employees pursuant to employee benefit plans

November 20, 1998

CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Published on November 20, 1998


Exhibit 23.1


CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8) pertaining to the Southwest Airlines Co. Deferred Compensation Plan for
Pilots of our report dated January 23, 1998 with respect to the consolidated
financial statements of Southwest Airlines Co. included in its Annual Report
(Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1997 filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.


/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Dallas, Texas
November 19, 1998