Southwest Airlines joined Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter and other dignitaries February 16th at a ribbon cutting ceremony officially opening Southwest’s new home in Terminal E at PHL. Recently completed by Hunt Construction Group, the $45 million Terminal E Expansion features seven new aircraft gates, a 500-seat holding area, new restrooms, a mini-food court with new concessions, and a fantastic new piece of permanent artwork installed as part of the City’s Percent for Art Program.

“This new facility, that now allows us to operate out of one concourse, is a wonderful example of both Southwest Airlines and the City of Philadelphia working together in a public-private partnership to enhance air travel for the entire City,” stated Bob Montgomery, Southwest Airlines Vice President of Properties. “I know all of our hard-working Southwest Employees here in Philadelphia can’t wait to continue providing our legendary Customer Service from our new home in Terminal E.”

During the ceremony, Montgomery also announced a new and exciting destination for Philadelphians. Beginning June 27, 2010, the carrier is starting new service between Philadelphia and Boston Logan (BOS). Southwest will start with five daily nonstops between the two cities.

“Southwest’s new Philadelphia – Boston route is yet another excellent addition to Philadelphia International Airport’s existing non-stop air service lineup. Competition on any of our routes is wonderful news for our patrons as it typically provides a greater choice in product offerings, flight schedules and lower fares. We applaud Southwest’s decision to inaugurate this service and are looking forward to its success,” said Mark Gale, CEO of Philadelphia International Airport.

“We are thrilled that Southwest loves Boston and is continuing to grow here,” said Ed Freni, Director of Aviation for the Massachusetts Port Authority. “We want to make sure their passengers are as comfortable here as they are in the air, so we are working to expand Southwest’s gate area to accommodate these new flights.”

Southwest has been a regular repeat client for Hunt Construction Group and after more than 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation’s leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines–offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation’s largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, currently serves 68 cities in 35 states (with additional service to Panama City Beach, Fla., in May). Based in Dallas, Southwest operates more than 3,100 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.