It was a great event! We were told 800-900 in attendance but many were not currently qualified. They went over the history of the company, milestones, accomplishments, etc., then had a series of speakers including cheif pilots, training dept, people dept, etc. They stressed honesty and accuracy on the applications, and just be yourself if you get an interview. Planning to hire 3000 in the next 5 years. Interviewing about 20% non-typed people right now but may go up in the future. 1300 PIC turbine is a hard number it seems. SWA referral is not required, but you will need 3 letters from people who have flown with you recently (anybody).

They talked about potential upgrade time is about 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 years, and that it has been this way for quite a while. Could slow down a little if age 60 gets changed as many think will happen soon. Oakland and Midway are the junior bases but should be able to transfer quickly if desired. I was told on a break by a seasoned SWA pilot that more pilots are hired these days on a first interview than was the case years ago, but it is still probably 20-30% in his estimation. They try to hire about 50% civilian and military.

For those who have interviewed previously, keep trying as a large number of their pilots have interviewed 2 or 3 times before getting hired. All in all it was very informative and light hearted as you would expect. Good Luck!