How Much Does a Southwest Pilot Make an Hour?
As one of the largest and most popular airlines in the United States, Southwest Airlines has a fleet of over 750 aircraft and operates more than 4,000 flights daily. With a strong presence in the domestic market, Southwest pilots play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and comfort of millions of passengers each year. But how much do these pilots make?
Direct Answer: How Much Does a Southwest Pilot Make an Hour?
According to the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA), the average hourly wage for a Southwest Airlines pilot is around $145.51 per hour. However, this figure can vary depending on the pilot’s rank, experience, and type of aircraft they fly.
Pilot Ranks and Hourly Wages
Southwest Airlines has a hierarchical system for its pilots, with different ranks corresponding to different levels of experience and responsibility. Here is a breakdown of the different pilot ranks and their average hourly wages:
- First Officer (FO): $125.21 – $135.11 per hour
- Captain (CO): $145.51 – $155.41 per hour
- Captain (CO) with Over 10 Years of Service: $155.41 – $165.31 per hour
- Captain (CO) with Over 20 Years of Service: $165.31 – $175.21 per hour
Factors Affecting Hourly Wages
In addition to pilot rank, several other factors can affect an individual pilot’s hourly wage. These include:
- Type of Aircraft: Pilots flying larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737-800, tend to earn higher hourly wages than those flying smaller aircraft, such as the Boeing 737-700.
- Years of Service: Pilots with more years of service tend to earn higher hourly wages than those with fewer years of service.
- Seniority: Pilots with higher seniority tend to earn higher hourly wages than those with lower seniority.
- Flight Hours: Pilots who fly more hours per month tend to earn higher hourly wages than those who fly fewer hours.
Benefits and Perks
In addition to their hourly wages, Southwest Airlines pilots also receive a range of benefits and perks, including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Pilots and their families are eligible for comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Retirement Plan: Pilots are eligible for a 401(k) retirement plan with a company match.
- Travel Perks: Pilots and their families receive free or discounted travel on Southwest Airlines, as well as access to special travel programs and services.
- Professional Development: Southwest Airlines offers a range of professional development opportunities, including training programs, mentorship, and leadership development.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hourly wage for a Southwest pilot can vary depending on their rank, experience, and type of aircraft they fly. While the average hourly wage for a Southwest pilot is around $145.51 per hour, pilots with more years of service and higher seniority can earn significantly higher wages. In addition to their hourly wages, Southwest pilots also receive a range of benefits and perks, including medical insurance, retirement plans, and travel perks.
