Southwest pilots overwhelmingly approve new 5-year deal

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Southwest Airlines announced today that its Pilots, represented by the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA), have overwhelmingly approved a new collective bargaining agreement.

“Our Pilots are world-class aviators who uphold Southwest’s commitments to Safety, Hospitality, and connecting People to what’s important in their lives,” said Adam Carlisle, Vice President Labor Relations at Southwest Airlines®. “This agreement justly rewards our Pilots and supports our operational needs.”

The newly ratified five-year agreement encompasses nearly 11,000 Southwest® Pilots, offering them leading industry compensation, modified scheduling practices, and improvements to their quality of life. These enhancements include paid maternity and parental leave, along with the option for additional extended bonding leave. Furthermore, the contract preserves Southwest’s operational strengths, incorporating a new process for recovering the Pilot network if necessary.

As of October 2022, nine union-represented workgroups have successfully ratified new agreements, spanning various roles within the organization such as Appearance Technicians, Customer Service Agents, Customer Representatives, Source of Support Representatives, Dispatchers, Facilities Maintenance Technicians, Flight Instructors, Material Specialists, Mechanics and Related Employees, and Meteorologists.

While these negotiations have concluded positively, Southwest remains engaged in discussions with two union-represented workgroups. The airline is committed to securing agreements that recognize and reward the contributions of its employees to the success of Southwest.

« Back to Page

• Southwest Airlines secures new labor deal for 18,000 workers, enhancing compensation and benefits