Re: flight privileges
Not all flight bennies are free. Many carriers charge employees to travel and in some cases (AA/AE) as long as they have a seat in the cabin you cannot 'jumpseat' for free.
In addtion to non-rev flying, pilots can use their industry piviledge and jumpseat (bum a ride) with other airlines. Saves $$$ on industry tickets to go on other airlines. Many also have 'buddy passes' so you can bring pals that are not dependants.
Re:retirement fund matching
Pretty much everyone has a 401K. The match of course varies by carrier. Some also have profitsharing programs.
Do most airlines give their pilots an option to get healthcare through the airline? What about healthcare and dental?
Yes. Haven't heard of a carrier that doesn't offer it. The cost varies by airline.
I was also wondering about stock options - is that even heard of in this industry? Also depends on the airline and what was negotiated in the contract. If I remember right SWA pilots got them. They also offer a discount on employee stock purchase (as do most carriers) if you dare invest in airline stocks.
IMO, SWA has an excellent benefits package. Free medical & dental for employees, free flight benefits, profitsharing (30+ years of profitability and counting...) and dollar for dollar match on 401K after a given time.