Originally Posted by saturn

I would assume the average narrow body SW pilot makes more than an average narrow body DL pilot, but not leagues better. Some guys will never fly widebodys because of domicile, seniority, opportunity, etc. Payrates are close at 737, where 320/717/MD88/CS1 is lower, only ER and future NEO are greater domestic. Work rules governing min pay are much better at SW = more days off and/or more $ per duty period. SW pilots fly more per duty period. Retirement is the same. Profit sharing better at DL but not that far from each other. Medical much better at SW. Vacation better at SW. Premium pay is similar though easier to acquire at SW. SW greater schedule flexibility. Better RSV at Delta. SW has best scope in the industry. Both companies are low debt high profit.