The average salary for a Southwest Airlines pilot ranges from $90,000 to $290,000 per year. First officers typically earn between $90,000 and $150,000, while captains earn between $200,000 and $290,000 annually, depending on seniority, flight hours, and aircraft type.
Southwest Airlines Pilot Salary Overview
Southwest Airlines pilots earn between $90,000 and $290,000 annually, based on position, seniority, and flight time. First officers start closer to $90,000. Senior captains with decades of experience reach up to $290,000.
The airline uses a seniority-based system. Pay increases with time on the job and active flying hours. All pilots fly the Boeing 737, as Southwest operates a single-type fleet. This streamlines training and pay structure compared to other major carriers.
Southwest’s hourly pay rates are among the highest for U.S. airlines in 2025. The company also uses a unique “trip-for-pay” system, discussed in the FAQ section.
Southwest Pilot Pay by Rank and Experience
First officers at Southwest earn an average of $236 per hour, while captains earn $347 per hour. Starting pay for a first officer is $133/hr. Senior captains reach up to $364/hr.
✈️ Southwest Airlines Pilot Salary Table
| Position | Starting Hourly Rate | Average Hourly Rate | Top Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Officer | $133/hr | $236/hr | $255/hr |
| Captain | $334/hr | $347/hr | $364/hr |
Seniority is the key factor in pay increases. Pilots with over 15 years at the airline can earn top-tier salaries. New hires with prior military or regional airline experience may advance faster within the system.
Southwest first officers typically upgrade to captain roles after several years of service, depending on open positions at pilot bases like Las Vegas and Dallas Love Field.
How Southwest Compares to Other Major Airlines
Southwest Airlines pilot salaries are competitive with United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta. However, Southwest differs by flying only domestic routes with a single aircraft type, which simplifies scheduling and training.
| Airline | Avg. Captain Pay | Avg. First Officer Pay | Fleet Complexity | International Routes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest | $347/hr | $236/hr | Single (B737) | No |
| United Airlines | $360/hr | $250/hr | Multiple Types | Yes |
| American Airlines | $355/hr | $245/hr | Multiple Types | Yes |
| Delta Airlines | $365/hr | $255/hr | Multiple Types | Yes |
While Southwest doesn’t operate long-haul flights, it offers predictable schedules, efficient routes, and fewer overnight stays—important for many pilots seeking work-life balance.
Factors That Affect Pilot Salary at Southwest
The biggest salary drivers at Southwest are rank, flight time, flight segments, and seniority. Other influences include base location and union agreements.
- Flight hours: More hours flown = higher total pay.
- Seniority: Captains with 15+ years earn the most.
- Base assignment: Pilots based in busy hubs like Dallas or Las Vegas fly more segments.
- Monthly Reserve Guarantee: Ensures pilots get minimum pay even with lighter flight schedules.
- Union contracts: Negotiated by the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA).
Because Southwest operates only Boeing 737s, there is no aircraft-based pay difference, unlike Delta or American Airlines.
Additional Compensation and Benefits
Southwest pilots receive comprehensive benefits in addition to hourly pay. These include:
- 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
- Profit-sharing program that increases annual pay
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Free and discounted travel benefits for family
- Per diem for meals and expenses while away from base
Many pilots use bonuses and profit-sharing to boost their retirement contributions. The airline also offers flexible bidding systems and vacation scheduling based on seniority.
Southwest is known for strong overall compensation and an efficient, pilot-friendly contract structure.
Pilot Salary Trends and Outlook for 2025 and Beyond
Pilot salaries are rising due to increased demand, a pilot shortage, and competitive hiring across major carriers.
According to Boeing and ICAO, the U.S. will need over 60,000 new pilots in the next 20 years. This pressure has already pushed pilot wages up in 2024 and 2025. Many pilots are also retiring, opening up senior positions.
Southwest continues to recruit from:
- Military pathway pilots entering civilian life
- Cadet pathway students in flight schools or university programs
- Regional airline pilots seeking better pay and schedules
The Southwest Airlines pilot job remains in high demand. Most applicants meet eligibility requirements by holding a four-year aviation degree or equivalent flight experience. The company also works with pathway partners and select flight schools to fill its pipeline.
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know About Southwest Pilot Pay
- Southwest first officers earn $90,000–$150,000.
- Southwest captains earn $200,000–$290,000.
- Pay increases with seniority, segments flown, and active flying.
- The airline pays by flight segment, not just hours.
- All pilots fly the Boeing 737—no pay difference by aircraft.
- Monthly reserve guarantee protects income during low-activity months.
- Strong retirement and travel benefits enhance total compensation.
This makes Southwest a top choice for many seeking a stable, high-paying airline career with predictable schedules and domestic routes.
Popular Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
How does Southwest’s “trip-for-pay” system work?
Southwest pilots are paid per flight segment, not just hourly. A standard segment is 243 miles. For every 40 miles beyond that, pilots earn an extra 10%.
Does Southwest offer a guaranteed minimum income for pilots?
Yes. Pilots are guaranteed 89 segments during a 31-day month and 87 in shorter months. This is part of the monthly reserve guarantee.
Are there differences in pay based on aircraft type?
No. Southwest operates a single fleet of Boeing 737s. There is no pay variation based on aircraft.
What is the retirement plan for Southwest pilots?
Southwest offers a 401(k) with company matching. Pilots can direct bonuses into the plan, maximizing long-term savings.
Who Can Become a Southwest Pilot?
To qualify for a Southwest Airlines pilot job, you must meet these hiring requirements:
- Hold an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) license
- Accumulate 1,500+ total flight hours
- Complete a four-year college degree (aviation preferred)
- Be able to apply directly or enter via university or cadet pathway
Many candidates are former military pilots, regional airline pilots, or graduates of select universities offering financial aid and pilot training.
