Comprehensive interview intel — history, fleet, compensation, hiring, culture, and strategy. Know the company inside and out before you walk in.
Southwest is the largest low-cost carrier in the world, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and operating an all-Boeing 737 fleet of approximately 803 aircraft. It was co-founded by Herb Kelleher and Rollin King in 1967 as an intrastate Texas airline, is not a member of any global alliance, operates approximately 4,000+ daily flights to 123 destinations in 42 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, and employs approximately 11,409 active pilots. Bob Jordan has been CEO since February 1, 2022.
For interview purposes, the simplest way to frame Southwest is this: it is a company undergoing the most dramatic transformation in its 54-year history. In 2025-2026, Southwest ended its legendary open seating policy, introduced assigned seats and extra-legroom seating, began charging for checked bags for the first time ever, and restructured its fare classes — all under pressure from activist investor Elliott Investment Management. This is not a company coasting on its heritage. It is a company reinventing itself while preserving the cultural DNA that made it the most admired low-cost carrier in aviation history.
Southwest's model is fundamentally different from the Big Three (Delta, United, American). It operates a single fleet type (Boeing 737), uses a point-to-point network model with rolling hubs rather than traditional hub-and-spoke, does not offer international long-haul service, and has historically differentiated through low fares, no baggage fees, and a fun, employee-first culture. Understanding these structural differences — and how they are now evolving — is essential for any interview.
Sources listed at the end of each profile. Data compiled from public filings, airline newsrooms, AirlinePilotCentral, Glassdoor, FAA records, and industry publications.