Southwest Airlines (Southwest) has announced the resounding approval of a new collective bargaining agreement by its pilots, represented by the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA).
Adam Carlisle, Vice President Labour Relations at Southwest Airlines, stated, “Our Pilots are world-class aviators who uphold Southwest’s commitments to safety, hospitality and connecting people to what’s important in their lives. This agreement justly rewards our pilots and supports our operational needs.”
Covering nearly 11,000 Southwest pilots over five years, the agreement offers industry-leading compensation, adjusted scheduling practices and quality-of-life improvements, including paid maternity and parental leave, with the possibility of extended bonding leave. Additionally, the contract maintains Southwest’s operational advantages, including a new process for recovering the pilot network if necessary.
Since October 2022, nine union-represented workgroups have ratified new agreements. Southwest continues negotiations with two union-represented workgroups, aiming to recognise and reward those employees for their contributions to the company.
