The low-cost air carrier said the cuts are mostly focused on corporate and leadership roles. Some 1,750 employees are expected to be laid off. Southwest Airlines has announced that it will lay off 15% of its employees in an effort to reduce costs and maximize its efficiencies.

The layoffs, which the company expects to complete by the end of the second quarter, are estimated to net $210 million in savings this year.

CEO Bob Jordan called the cuts "unprecedented in our 53-year history" but said they come at "a pivotal moment as we transform Southwest Airlines."

The layoffs challenge Southwest’s philosophy that happy employees would lead to happy customers, profitability and happy Southwest shareholders.