Want to work as a Southwest Airlines flight attendant? This guide covers everything you need to know – including requirements, salary, training, and how to apply.
Quick summary
To become a Southwest Airlines flight attendant, you must be at least 20 years old, have a high school diploma, legal work authorisation in the U.S., and meet physical requirements. New hires start at $28.42 per hour, with top earners making over $70,000 per year, plus flight benefits, a 401(k) match, and profit-sharing. Hiring is competitive, but customer service experience and strong interview skills increase your chances of getting the job.
Southwest Airlines flight attendant requirements
To work as a flight attendant at Southwest, you need to meet these qualifications:
- Age: At least 20 years old
- Legal status: Must have the right to work in the U.S.
- Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent (college coursework is a plus)
- Passport: Valid and unexpired
- Physical requirements:
- Height & weight: Must be proportional for a neat appearance and to fit in the jump seat harness without modifications
- Mobility: Must fit through the overwing exit and walk comfortably down the aircraft aisle
- Lifting ability: Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds from the floor to shoulder level
- Appearance & grooming: Must meet Southwest’s professional image standards
- Background check & drug test: Required for all candidates
Southwest Airlines flight attendant salary & benefits
How much do Southwest flight attendants make?
- Starting pay: $28.42 per hour
- Average annual salary: $50,000 – $65,000
- Top earners: Over $70,000 per year
- Per diem pay: Extra for hours spent on duty but not flying
Flight attendant benefits at Southwest
- Free & discounted flights for employees and eligible family members
- Medical, dental & vision coverage (including mental health support)
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Profit-sharing program
- Paid time off (vacation, personal, sick leave)
- Parental leave & short-term disability
Southwest Airlines flight attendant hiring process (Step-by-step)
Step 1: Check for open positions
- Go to the Southwest Airlines Careers Page
- Look for “Flight Attendant” job listings
- If no openings, sign up for job alerts
Step 2: Submit an online application
- Fill out your personal details, work experience, and qualifications
- Attach your resume (tailored to highlight customer service experience!)
Step 3: Wait for a response
If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be contacted for the next step
Step 4: Interview process
- Virtual group interview – First round, conducted online
- In-person interview – Held at a Southwest hiring location
💡 Tip: Southwest values personality and customer service skills. Be friendly, engaging, and show you can handle difficult passengers.
Step 5: Job offer & background check
- If successful, you’ll receive a conditional job offer
- Southwest will conduct a background check & drug screening
Step 6: Flight attendant training
- Location: Dallas, Texas
- Duration: About 4 weeks
- Paid Training: Yes, Southwest pays trainees
- Training Includes: Safety procedures, emergency training, customer service, and inflight duties
What’s it like to be a Southwest flight attendant?
Wondering what a day as a Southwest flight attendant looks like? This video gives you a behind-the-scenes look at onboard duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Southwest flight attendants make?
New hires start at $28.42 per hour, with yearly increases. Experienced flight attendants can earn over $70,000 per year with seniority, bonuses, and extra hours.
How long is Southwest flight attendant training?
Training lasts about four weeks in Dallas, Texas. It covers safety procedures, emergency protocols, customer service, and inflight duties. Training is paid, and you must pass exams to continue.
Does Southwest require previous flight attendant experience?
No, but customer service experience is highly preferred. Hospitality, retail, and other customer-facing jobs improve your chances of getting hired.
What benefits do Southwest flight attendants get?
They receive free and discounted flights, health insurance, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and profit-sharing bonuses. Senior flight attendants often receive higher retirement benefits.
Can Southwest flight attendants have tattoos?
Yes, but they must not be visible while in uniform. That means no tattoos on the face, neck, or hands. Covering them with makeup or sleeves is allowed.
Where are Southwest flight attendants based?
Bases include Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Oakland, Orlando, and Phoenix. Your assigned base depends on company needs.
Is Southwest hiring flight attendants in 2025?
Hiring happens in waves, not year-round. Check Southwest’s official careers page for the latest openings.
Do Southwest flight attendants get paid during training?
Yes, training is fully paid. You also receive meal stipends and accommodations in Dallas.
What’s the biggest perk of working for Southwest?
The flight benefits. Employees and eligible family members can fly for free or at steep discounts, making it one of the best airline perks in the industry.