Southwest Airlines offers competitive compensation for its pilots, with pay determined by experience and flight segments flown. In 2024, First Officers at Southwest start with an annual salary ranging from $127,680 to $240,960, while Captains earn between $320,640 and $343,680. On an hourly basis, First Officers start at approximately $110 per hour, increasing to over $200 per hour after 12 years, while Captains start at $291 per hour, reaching up to $317 per hour after a decade of service.

If you’re curious about what Southwest Airlines pays its pilots and the requirements to become one in 2024, this guide will provide all the details you need, including salary breakdowns, job requirements, and steps to apply to become a pilot at Southwest.

Table of Contents

• First Officer Salary Overview
• Captain Salary Overview
• Hourly Pay Breakdown for Pilots
• Where Southwest Airlines Pilots are Based
• Aircraft in Southwest’s Fleet
• Hiring Requirements for Southwest Pilots
• Steps to Apply for a Southwest Pilot Position
• About Southwest Airlines
• Pilot Benefits at Southwest
• Recent Contract Changes
• Training Opportunities at Southwest
• Legal Dispute Involving Pilot Union

First Officer Salary Overview for Southwest Airlines in 2024

First Officers at Southwest Airlines earn competitive pay based on their experience and the number of flight segments completed. In the first year, a First Officer is paid $75.77 per segment, which increases each year. By year three, it rises to $121.98, and by year 12, a First Officer can earn $171.95 per segment.

Here is a summary of annual salary expectations for First Officers:

For pilots working the minimum reserve, the first-year salary can be around $79,104, while a 12-year First Officer may earn up to $179,516 annually.

Captain Salary Overview for Southwest Airlines in 2024

Captains at Southwest Airlines are compensated based on their years of service and the number of flight segments flown. A first-year Captain can expect to earn $216.49 per segment, which increases to $245.64 per segment by year three. By year 12, a Captain can earn up to $317.25 per segment.

Here is a breakdown of the annual salary for Captains:

A senior Captain flying the minimum reserve could earn approximately $256,448 annually.

Hourly Pay Breakdown for Southwest Airlines Pilots in 2024

Southwest Airlines pilots are paid on a flight-segment basis rather than strictly by the hour. However, here’s an estimate of the hourly pay for both First Officers and Captains based on their flight segments and experience levels:

First Officer Hourly Pay:

• Year 1: ~ $110/hour
• Year 2: ~ $115/hour
• Year 3: ~ $120/hour
• Year 4: ~ $125/hour
• Year 5: ~ $130/hour
• Year 6: ~ $135/hour
• Top Rate (Year 12): ~ $200/hour

Captain Hourly Pay:

• Year 1: ~ $291/hour
• Year 2: ~ $295/hour
• Year 3: ~ $299/hour
• Year 4: ~ $303/hour
• Year 5: ~ $307/hour
• Year 6: ~ $311/hour
• Top Rate (Year 12): ~ $317/hour

Where are Southwest Airlines Pilots Based?

Southwest Airlines has pilot bases across major U.S. cities. As of 2024, these include:

• Atlanta (ATL)
• Baltimore (BWI)
• Chicago Midway (MDW)
• Dallas Love Field (DAL)
• Denver (DEN)
• Houston Hobby (HOU)
• Las Vegas (LAS)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• Oakland (OAK)
• Orlando (MCO)
• Phoenix (PHX)

Additionally, Southwest plans to open a new base in Nashville (BNA) by 2025.

Aircraft in Southwest Airlines Fleet

Southwest Airlines exclusively operates a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft. The following models are part of the fleet:

• Boeing 737-700 (143 passengers)
• Boeing 737-800 (175 passengers)
• Boeing 737 MAX 7 (150 passengers)
• Boeing 737 MAX 8 (175 passengers)

With over 800 aircraft, Southwest is the world’s largest operator of Boeing 737s. The airline is also increasing its fleet of Boeing 737 MAX planes to improve fuel efficiency and expand capacity.

What Are the Hiring Requirements for Southwest Airlines Pilots?

To be considered for a pilot role at Southwest, applicants must meet several essential qualifications:

• Certificates/Ratings: A valid U.S. FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
• Age: Applicants must be at least 23 years old.
• Flight Experience: A minimum of 2,500 flight hours, with at least 1,000 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC) of turbine aircraft.
• Additional Requirements: A current FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate, valid U.S. driver’s license, and U.S. passport.

Candidates must also pass background checks and demonstrate strong communication abilities.

Steps to Apply for a Southwest Pilot Position

To apply for a pilot job with Southwest Airlines:

Training: If selected, you’ll undergo training at Southwest’s LEAD Center in Dallas.

Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the experience and certification requirements.

Visit the Careers Page: Go to Southwest’s official career website to view open pilot positions.

Submit Application: Complete and submit the application, including required documentation.

Prepare for the Interview: If your application is shortlisted, prepare for the interview by researching Southwest’s values and culture.

Consider the Destination 225° Pathway Program: If you’re building hours toward a commercial flying career, this program helps aspiring pilots gain the experience needed to qualify for Southwest positions.

The post Southwest Airlines Offers Competitive Pay for Pilots in 2024 and the Salary Ranges for First Officers and Captains: Know More appeared first on Travel And Tour World.