I fly an MD-11 international now. I also have an interview coming up with SW. The flying doesn't sound appealing, but it's a rock solid company and great pay by current standards. Besides, I think they put something in the water to make everyone so happy---I want some of that.

Don't limit yourself to SW vs CAL---if you want a real lifestyle and money---UPS or FedEx!

 

I just interviewed with them on Monday and they are a happy bunch! They made me feel like they wanted to hire me right when I walked in the door. I asked one of their 10-year captains about the contract negotiations and what the pilot "cornerstone issues" were. She just thought for a second and said that she wasn't aware of any pilot complaints and as far as the negotiations, she "just isn't worried about it."

Something in the water indeed...(I hope they hire me! )

 

Dave,

Read your posts for some time--you seem like a very decent yet somewhat idealistic guy. (Quote Seinfeld...not that there's anything wrong with that...)

The "happy" seems real, but 2/10 will be lucky to get the call. On average, 75-80% will get told "no thanks..."

And of course there aren't any cornerstone issues at SWA...everything is just "perfect". I'm sure if I asked your squadron commander he'd say the same thing about your current squadron.

You'll need to fork over some cash for your type rating if you haven't gotten it yet. If you'll do it at Higher Power at least the SWA folks will be around to cheerlead and encourage more people to apply--dropping another 8k or so into the hopper of the SWA HR department heads brother-in-law. Since you'll already have the job you can be a spectator and enjoy the show.

Also--since you are retired and won't be burdened with ANG or Reserve duty you won't get to see another interesting side of SWA...the constant push for productivity. Productivity means working...not mil leaving...and if you cannot work your duties into ONE dropped 3 day a month be prepared to "discuss" or "explain" why to your local CP. Of course--SWA "luvs" the military and wants to support our boys--but a call at home while you are on probation sends a signal...overt or not. Board regulars can argue with me on this if they'd like--but I've already stood up for one my guys on his 1 year + 1 day anniversary...he was too spooked to bring it up prior. There are currently some issues with BWI and a new FO...but don't sweat that...you are retired and won't have to see any of this.

Your past posts indicate you think airline pilots are a bunch of whiners and unions want to kill the golden goose. Not yanking your chain--seriously--hope you get the job and enjoy flying the line a couple years. Then I'd like to hear your perspective after you've flown the line a while. SWAPA has some hard working SOBs fighting for YOU. It also has some guys who will roll over and let mangement suckle the milk from their teats whenever the company says "boo" about a scary future. Your job will be to filter that info and support guys who can help take care of YOUR family and not just the company.

Those captains that are so "nice" will explain to you why you shouldn't be greedy and expect a raise or increase in benefits...as they rush for the exits with their stock. The pension you'll never have and the 401k that is tax limited are the price they paid for taking a chance on a stock bet that paid off handsomely. Do some math and see how well YOUR options will have to do for the next 17 years to come close to those returns. Then go reread Brad's posts...he's looking out for you too....

And when the kool aid wears off you'll wake up and realize that this whole dirty game is nothing but a business. SWA lobbys Congress to remove the WA--not for "luv" but for money. AA fights them not for Ft Worth, but for market share.

All that aside--if I was starting this business tomorrow SWA would be very close to the top of my list. They make money. They have fun. They know their business. But geez...don't let the beverages and smiles fool you. They'll send you flowers when your mom dies, and you can drink beers with some great crews--but this is nothing but a brutal business.

Enjoy your second career. I'd also look for a side gig...

 

Well hell, why even have negotiations then. Just let the company ink the same deal they have right now if they're so damn happy...

 

And SCABS to fly with too. I would go to SWA if you have the choice.

 

I wouldn't be asking questions about contracts until you get the job. Not a smart thing to do.

 

There are "scabs" everywhere"!

 

Been there, done that! They do seem to be a happy bunch. SWA always made me feel like they wanted to hire me right when I walked in the door. But they didn't.

I hope that you get the call, but don't fool yourself into believing that the atmosphere in the GO will translate into a sure thing. 75% of those who walk into LL's territory walk away disappointed.

 

Yes, but the concentration level varies.

Good Luck

 

Yep. Talked to the LOI guys after we were done, about 28% of the applicants get hired! There were 22 guys at my interview just on Tues. alone!
Now wait 4-6 weeks to hear.