Jose P., Flight Instructor in the Southwest Leadership Education Aircrew Development (LEAD) Center in Dallas, TX.
"As a first generation Mexican-American, the pathway to becoming a commercial pilot was challenging. I didn’t have a mentor, but as a Pilot mentor for Destination 225°, I'm able to guide others and make their dreams easier and more attainable."
- Marcella P.,
LAS-based First Officer and
Destination 225° Recruitment Team
"When I began my aviation journey, I knew one Latino in aviation. Almost 10 years into my aviation journey, I'm proud of how the Latino aviation community continues to grow. Now that I'm at my dream airline, I'm able to mentor and have community with pilots that grew up where I did. We stick together, and we support one another's journey."
- Jesus (Chuy) C.,
HOU-based Southwest First Officer
"At Southwest, you're given the opportunity to be who you are, a place where you can express your gratitude and appreciation for the industry and the people. A place where you bring the joy for your cohearts and the customers. A place where I can be the CEO = Chief Energy Officer. Every day when I put my uniform on, I feel so privileged to represent Southwest."
- Pablo O.,
MDW-based Captain
"The aviation community is much larger and more diverse than most think. There is a sense of community and acceptance for everyone regardless of their background. This makes me feel comfortable being who I am, because there are others like me. The networking and friendships I've developed have made me more confident in my career. I feel very fortunate to give back whenever and to whomever I can."
- Tanner M.,
LAS-based First Officer and
Destination 225° Recruitment Team
Minimum qualifications for First Officer.
Minimum qualifications for First Officer.
Certificates/Ratings
USA DOT/FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate, which display the following:
USA DOT/FAA First Class Medical Certificate and, if applicable, any necessary Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate (Authorization) or Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) issued by the Federal Air Surgeon.
- "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category and Class Ratings
- "English Proficient" limitation
USA DOT/FAA First Class Medical Certificate and, if applicable, any necessary Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate (Authorization) or Statement of Demonstrated Ability (SODA) issued by the Federal Air Surgeon.
Flight experience
- Preferred: 500 hours in a fixed-wing turbine aircraft or successfully completed all aspects of a Destination 225° pathway program
- Preferred: actively flying for two of the last five years
- Note: PIC time is defined as Captain or Aircraft Commander of record or pilot signing for the aircraft (not sole manipulator of the controls)
- Note: Only time in a fixed-wing aircraft is counted, which excludes simulator, helicopter, WSO, RIO, FE, NAV, EWO, and UAV specifically
Why Southwest Airlines?
Why Southwest Airlines?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
We’re committed to a work environment where everyone can be themselves and recognized for the unique perspectives they each bring forward. Diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords—they’re woven into how we run our business, and they’re reflected in our world-famous Culture.
Culture
Our unique Southwest Culture is woven into all aspects of our business, from how we treat each other to how we provide Next-Level Hospitality to our Customers. All Employees are responsible for preserving and invigorating our Culture, regardless of position or tenure, which strengthens our Culture of caring. It’s a source of pride among Employees and at the Heart of who we are.
Military
We’re proud to have more than 10,200 veterans and 1,800 military spouses in our Southwest Family. Our colors are red, yellow, and blue, but our support is for red, white, and blue.
Benefits
More than just a paycheck, a career at Southwest Airlines comes with several benefits, from our legendary Culture to travel privileges for Employees and their eligible dependents.