ACTIVELY HIRINGUnited StatesPermanent, seniority-based

Southwest Airlines Pilot Recruitment Process 2026

Everything you need to know about the Southwest Airlines pilot hiring process, from application to final assessment. Updated 2026-03-01.

Application Process

Online Application

1-2 weeks

Apply via Southwest career site. Higher hour requirements than other US majors.

Invitation to Interview

4-8 weeks

Selected candidates invited to Southwest HQ in Dallas.

Interview Day

1 day

Full-day at Dallas Love Field: panel interview, personality assessment, group exercise.

Simulator Evaluation

1 hour

B737 simulator check evaluating hand-flying and CRM.

CJO & Training

8-10 weeks

Job offer followed by B737 type rating and IOE.

Assessment Stages & Tips

Culture-Fit Panel Interview

Southwest-famous culture-focused interview. Heavy emphasis on personality, humor, and warrior spirit.

Preparation Tips

Show genuine enthusiasm and positivity
Research Southwest mission and values deeply
Be authentic - they detect fake personality instantly

Group Exercise

Collaborative problem-solving with other candidates. Evaluators watch for leadership and teamwork.

Preparation Tips

Be inclusive, encourage quiet participants
Facilitate, do not dominate
Show servant leadership values

Simulator Assessment

B737 sim testing hand-flying, instrument approaches, and crew coordination.

Preparation Tips

Practice B737 profiles
Expect single-engine ILS
Stay calm and methodical

Common Interview Questions

Tell me about outstanding customer service.

Describe using humor to defuse tension.

What does Southwest culture mean to you?

Tell me about going above and beyond for a coworker.

How would crew members describe you?

Why Southwest and not another major?

Tell me about working with someone difficult.

Minimum Requirements

Requirement	Detail
Certificates	FAA ATP certificate
Total Flight Time	2,500 hours minimum
Turbine PIC	1,000 hours turbine PIC
Medical	FAA Class 1 medical
Education	No degree requirement (unique among US majors)

Fleet & Type Ratings

Type Ratings Accepted

B737

Fleet Types

B737-700B737-800B737 MAX 7/8

Available Pilot Bases

DALHOUMDWBWIDENLASPHXOAKATL

Insider Tips

Only US major not requiring a 4-year degree

Culture fit is more important than flight hours

Single-type fleet means faster captain upgrade

Profit sharing historically 10-15% of salary

Research warrior spirit, servant heart, fun-loving attitude

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Southwest Airlines hiring pilots in 2026?

Yes, Southwest Airlines is actively hiring pilots in 2026. Check their official careers portal for current openings.

What are the minimum requirements to fly for Southwest Airlines?

Certificates: FAA ATP certificate. Total Flight Time: 2,500 hours minimum. Turbine PIC: 1,000 hours turbine PIC. Medical: FAA Class 1 medical. Education: No degree requirement (unique among US majors).

What is the Southwest Airlines pilot interview process like?

The Southwest Airlines recruitment process involves 5 stages: Online Application, Invitation to Interview, Interview Day, Simulator Evaluation, CJO & Training.

What aircraft types does Southwest Airlines operate?

Southwest Airlines operates: B737-700, B737-800, B737 MAX 7/8.

Where are Southwest Airlines pilot bases located?

Southwest Airlines pilot bases include: DAL, HOU, MDW, BWI, DEN, LAS, PHX, OAK, ATL.