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Destination 225° Cadet Pathway

Destination 225° Cadet Pathway


Designed for both internal and external candidates, the Destination 225° Cadet pathway is an ab initio—“from the beginning”—program. If you don’t have previous experience as a pilot, this four- to five-year program is for you. 

There’s no “typical candidate” for the Cadet pathway. You might be…
  • Out in the workforce and ready to make a change in your career
  • A high school or college graduate who is ready for a rewarding career
  • Transitioning out of a non-pilot role in the military

The Cadet pathway will provide the competency-based training you need as you work toward an opportunity to sit in the right seat of a Southwest® aircraft. Southwest is proud to offer the Cadet pathway in a partnership with CAE, a worldwide leader in training for the civil aviation, defense and security, and healthcare markets. 

If you’ve ever dreamed of a career at 35,000 feet, set your course for 225°.

The program


Interested in learning more about what the Cadet pathway looks like? Below is an overview of the different milestones of the program as each of the various stages are successfully completed.​​​​​​​
The Cadet pathway: from application and selection (3-6 months) to initial training (12 months) to flight experience (approximately 3 years)The Cadet pathway has three main stages: Application & Selection, Initial Training, and Flight Experience.

Thinking of joining?
Take a look, take control, and take off!
To participate in the Cadet pathway, you must:

  • Possess a USA DOT/FAA First-Class Medical Certificate
  • Have or be able to obtain a valid passport with the ability to travel in and out of the U.S.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalency 
  • Possess a valid driver’s license
  • Be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis without the need for company sponsorship of an employment-based visa now or in the future
  • Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application
  • Demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English
  • Be able to pass the prescreening requirements needed for employment at Southwest Airlines® (e.g. drug testing and background check)
  • Be able to relocate for the duration of the program and future job opportunities
  • Maintain any physical requirements necessary to complete new and ongoing Pilot training throughout the duration of the Destination 225° program
  • Demonstrate the ability to pay out-of-pocket or secure financing for the total amount of the program (The Southwest Airlines Federal Credit Union has established the Destination 225° Student Loan Program. More information about this program, and how to apply, can be provided upon acceptance into the Destination 225° Cadet pathway.) Please note: The Cadet pathway is designed for someone without previous flight experience, so prior flight time does not provide any advantages during the application process or reduce the cost of training.

Application & selection process
Once you’ve applied, your application will be carefully reviewed, and you will receive follow up communication from CAE. This process may take a few months, and we appreciate your patience as the best aspiring aviators are selected for participation in the program!

Here’s a checklist to complete as you’re awaiting communication from Southwest and CAE:
  • Obtain an FAA First-Class Medical Certificate
  • Explore financing options and prequalify for any financial aid you may need. 
  • Complete a discovery flight, if you haven't already, at your local airport.

If you are selected to move forward in the process, you will be expected to complete an aptitude assessment, and potentially, an in-person interview. (Candidates are responsible for all costs associated with the selection process.)

You’ll hear from us post-interview either way, but if you’re selected for the program, you can expect to receive a class date, Southwest Airlines letter of intent, and more information regarding the financial aid process.

Ready to set your course for 225°?
Apply now

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