Southwest Airlines Pilot Career Guide
Southwest's single-type fleet (Boeing 737) and point-to-point model create a unique operational environment. Known for great company culture and work-life balance.
First Officer Salary
$85,000 - $180,000
Captain Salary
$220,000 - $360,000
Salary Progression
Year 1 FO
$98,000
Year 5 FO
$188,000
Year 10 Captain
$310,000
Year 20 Captain
$358,000
Bonuses & Perks
Profit sharing historically strong, averaging 8-12% of pay in good years.
Retirement
9.3% company match on 401(k) plus profit sharing contribution.
Pilot Reviews & Ratings
Based on pilot forum data
Pros
- Legendary company culture that genuinely values employees
- Single fleet type (737) simplifies training and bidding
- Profit sharing creates strong alignment with company success
- Point-to-point flying means fewer overnights and more home time
- No international ops means no extended trips away from home
Cons
- Single fleet type means no widebody or international long-haul flying
- Pay slightly below AA/DL/UA at top of scale
- Rapid growth has stressed operational systems
- No premium cabin or international routes limits variety
- Boarding process can make turns stressful
Fleet & Routes
| Aircraft | Count | Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737-700 | 210 | Domestic short-haul |
| Boeing 737-800 | 378 | Domestic medium-haul |
| Boeing 737 MAX 8 | 165 | Domestic all routes |
Interview & Selection Process
Online application through Southwest careers portal
Phone screen with HR recruiter
In-person interview at Southwest HQ in Dallas
Panel interview with chief pilots and HR (behavioral and technical)
Simulator assessment in Boeing 737
CJO with background check and medical verification
Pilot Lifestyle
Work Schedule
Traditional line bidding. 15-17 days/month typical. Known for family-friendly scheduling with trip trading.
Home Base
Point-to-point model means many bases with large pilot groups. DAL and MDW are most senior.
Travel Benefits
Unlimited free standby travel on Southwest for pilot and family. Guest passes available. No alliance partner travel.
Commutable?
Yes — most bases are commutable
Hubs & Pilot Bases
Main Hubs
Pilot Bases
Cadet Program
Destination 225°
Partnership pathway program with select universities and flight schools providing a guided path to Southwest Airlines.
Union & Representation
Pilots at Southwest Airlines are represented by Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA).
Latest Developments
New pilot contract in 2023 brought significant pay increases and improved work rules
Southwest announced assigned seating and red-eye flights as part of business model transformation
Continued MAX deliveries expanding fleet capacity despite Boeing production challenges
Pilot Requirements
ATP certificate
2,500+ hours total time
1,000+ hours turbine PIC
FAA Class 1 medical
No degree requirement
Compare Southwest Airlines With
Plan your Southwest Airlines career
See what Southwest Airlines pilots earn at every career stage, estimate training costs, and test your FAA theory knowledge.