which is best regional if targeting SWA ?
 

Which is best regional, my sole target is SWA

I am hearing a lot of Skywest dudes go to SWA, but a lot of Skywest dudes go to a lot of airlines.

I already have 2500 multi-engine turboprop PIC, ATP, and college degree. But was told to "get some regional 121 time" to help my resume. I was told "the interview calls will start" after I do a year at the regionals

Which regional ? Looking for "pedigree" and (god forbid) if I have to stay there for 5 years+, looking for culture, QOL, etc.

** may get the B737 type, still not decided

Thank you

I would recommend looking for a regional that is the best fit for you, this is more important that which is best in the eyes of SWA. I would guess all regionals are weighted equally in SWA's selection algorithm. Many Skywest pilots get hired at Southwest because Skywest is the biggest regional.

While it is admirable that your "sole target" is Southwest Airlines, you might be setting yourself up for disappointment by putting all your eggs in one basket. Southwest hires people from varied backgrounds, many without any FAR 121 time as well. As far as FAR 121 regional airlines are concerned most of the top tier ones have excellent reputations. Where do you live? Try to get on with someone where you don't have to commute. If you wind up staying there for 5 years, then pick someplace that can offer you an upgrade, QOL and perhaps even a flow, just in case SWA does not come calling. Expecting an interview one year after joining a regional may not be realistic unless you are a former military or higher time civilian pilot.

The USAF. Definitely.

He said regional. He’s looking for a quick turnaround, not a decade obligation.

I think he’s looking at the OP’s numbers and guessing at the pedigree. If I were to register a guess, I’d guess Navy or Marine Corps. He said turboprops, not jets.

Civilian regional. I hear "lots of SW guys come from Skywest" also "back in the day" lots of guys came from Eagle.

special reason? or like someone said, Skywest pushes out a lot of regional pilots so math would dictate that yes, a lot of them go to SWA.

Go to the place that will help you build PIC time quickly, has a good training department, and help you become qualified for ALL the majors, not just SWA.

I was just being a smarta$$.....a little jab at the USAFcentric culture in our Flt Ops.

Now if you want me to be serious then I’d definitely say Skywest.

Ive been told by a SWA recruiter they like SkyWest because culturally they are similar. I wouldn’t base my regional on wanting to get on at Southwest, I don’t think it has much to do with it. I’d go where I can get tpic and where there’s solid movement that could open up other stuff like check airman, sim instructor, ground instructor.