Ask around to the guys that have been here 20+ years
EVERY year at Training Center.

Just stencil EXPLOSIVE GROWTH on slide#1.

Every. Year.

2014 Annual Reporthttps://www.southwestairlinesinvestorrelations.com/~/media/Files/S/Southwest-IR/documents/company-reports-ar/ar-2014.pdf

"We project to end 2015 with approximately 700 aircraft in our fleet, all Boeing 737s."

2021 Annual Reporthttps://www.southwestairlinesinvestorrelations.com/~/media/Files/S/Southwest-IR/LUV_2021_Annual%20Report.pdf

"We continue to plan for 114 new aircraft deliveries from Boeing in 2022, with 28 retirements. That would mean we end the year with 814 aircraft in the fleet—a record."

So 84 new plane count "growth" in 2022. 10% "growth" is the goal for 2022. THE MOST explosive plans ever in recent history. Anyone really think that's going to happen with the recent trends in empty new hire class seats?

114 new plane growth from 700 to 814 in 8 years. About 2.0 to 2.5% "growth" per year as averaged over the past 8 years.

Just to put some definitions to what is being called "Explosive Growth". Don't hold your breath

Got the invite on May 2. Schedule Virtual for May 18th.

I was a sim CKA type in a previous life, took part in the initial type AQP rollout for a new airplane (we already had it on others). It was a mess, and this was with throttled back hiring to accommodate and at a company that had a very strong training department (aka not SWA).

About half the class unsat various gates and eventually things were straightened out, but it took some time and effort. I fully agree and understand what you're saying that this should've been done at SWA a decade ago, but attempting it at 140+ a month hiring with an already wounded training pipeline would be an unmitigated disaster. Our initial training is so fragmented and oddly paced. I think this timeframe pushback might be in the best interest of all involved.

I'd heard that the AQP upgrade footprint will be extended to pair up with newhires? I hope this isn't true...what is the difference at other carriers?

Until we developed a “short course” upgrade under AQP, yes… that’s how it went down. Entire course even for current and typed existing company FO’s upgrading.

hope they take their time then...

According to briefing at CQT this week, average newhire has 4500 TT of which 2500 is turbine.

Still planning on a total of around 1200 this year and 2000 next year plus another 75 or so instructors this year. Instructors are still the bottleneck.

Have CJOs gone out this morning from yesterday’s interviews?

We may have crossed paths out there!

I thought the 600 upgrades this year and 800 next year was an interesting forecast.

You left out that they all are considered plumbers by the CEO, now chairman of the board. The hate for pilots just gets stronger everyday at this place .