Ever dreamed of soaring through the skies, assisting passengers, and being part of a dynamic team that embodies "LUV"? Becoming a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines is a popular career choice for many, offering not just an exciting lifestyle, but also competitive compensation and a fantastic benefits package. But the big question on everyone's mind is often: "How much does a new flight attendant make at Southwest Airlines?"
Well, let's embark on a journey to uncover the financial landscape of a new Southwest flight attendant.
Step 1: Let's Talk About Your Sky-High Aspirations!
Are you curious about the starting salary, or the overall compensation package including benefits and perks? Understanding what goes into a flight attendant's pay at Southwest is crucial. It's not just a flat hourly rate; it involves a combination of factors that evolve with your career. So, let's dive in and demystify the numbers!
Step 2: Breaking Down the Initial Compensation
When you first join Southwest as a flight attendant, your earning potential is primarily based on an hourly rate, which then translates into an annual salary depending on the hours you fly.
Sub-heading: The Starting Hourly Rate
As of May 2024, new Southwest Airlines flight attendants can expect to earn around $33.55 per hour. This is a positive change, as a recent contract stipulated an immediate 22.3% raise for all flight attendants, effective from May 1, 2024. This shows Southwest's commitment to competitive pay in the industry.
Sub-heading: Estimated First-Year Annual Salary
Based on this hourly rate and assuming a full-time schedule, the estimated first-year salary for a new Southwest flight attendant generally falls within the range of $35,500 to $42,499. Some sources even indicate an estimated first-year salary of approximately $36,000. It's important to remember that flight attendants are paid for their actual flight hours, so this annual figure can fluctuate based on your assigned schedule, routes, and the number of hours you fly.
Sub-heading: The Training Period – What to Expect
It's worth noting that initial training for flight attendants at Southwest is typically unpaid. However, upon successful graduation from the training program, new flight attendants usually receive an initial training stipend, which is around $1,200 (minus applicable taxes and benefit deductions) and is paid within five working days of graduation. This helps offset some of the initial expenses.
Step 3: Understanding the Southwest Pay Scale and Progression
Your earnings as a Southwest flight attendant won't stay stagnant. The airline has a structured pay scale that rewards experience and seniority.
Sub-heading: Hourly Rate Progression
Entry Level (<1 year): As mentioned, around $30.75 – $33.55 per hour.
Entry/Mid Level (1-3 years): You can expect to see your hourly rate increase to approximately $36.75 – $39.55.
Mid Level (3-5 years): The hourly rate can further climb to around $44.00 – $47.00.
Experienced (5-10 years): For more seasoned flight attendants, hourly wages can range from $60.00 – $72.80.
Veteran (10+ years): The most experienced flight attendants at Southwest can earn upwards of $77.43 – $84.42 per hour, and even higher.
Sub-heading: Annual Salary Growth with Experience
Correspondingly, annual salaries see significant growth with experience:
Entry Level (<1 year): $35,500 – $42,499
Entry/Mid Level (1-3 years): $42,500 – $50,499
Mid Level (3-5 years): $50,500 – $66,500
Experienced (5-10 years): $67,500 – $85,000
Veteran (10+ years): $84,000 – $100,000+
It's clear that a career as a Southwest flight attendant offers a substantial path for financial growth.
Step 4: Beyond the Base - Additional Compensation and Benefits
A flight attendant's total compensation package at Southwest Airlines extends far beyond just their base salary. The company is known for its employee-friendly culture and offers a robust suite of benefits.
Sub-heading: Flight Hour Pay and Per Diem
Flight Hour Pay: As mentioned, flight attendants are primarily paid for their actual flight hours. This means that while there's a base hourly rate, your total monthly and annual earnings will be influenced by the number of hours you spend in the air. This can vary month to month.
Per Diem: When you're on duty and away from your home base, you'll receive a per diem to cover expenses like meals and incidental costs. This is an additional, untaxed payment that contributes to your overall take-home pay.
Sub-heading: Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Southwest Airlines offers a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes employee well-being.
Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, and Vision Coverage: These benefits typically start from your first day of employment, with various plan options to choose from.
Company-Provided Life Insurance and AD&D: Essential coverage for your peace of mind.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Providing support for mental health and various life challenges.
Sub-heading: Retirement and Investment Opportunities
Southwest is committed to its employees' long-term financial security.
401(k) with Generous Company Contributions: Southwest offers a strong 401(k) plan, including a generous company match contribution, potentially up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings. This is a significant perk that helps you build a strong retirement nest egg.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): After six months of continuous service, employees can purchase company common stock at a 10% discount, allowing them to become stakeholders in the company's success.
Profit-Sharing Contributions: When Southwest profits, employees often profit too! This annual contribution, subject to a vesting schedule, recognizes your hard work and contributions to the company's success.
Sub-heading: Unparalleled Travel Privileges
This is often one of the most attractive perks of being a flight attendant!
Free or Reduced-Rate Travel: Flight attendants and their eligible dependents (spouse/partner, dependent children, and sometimes even parents) can enjoy free or reduced-rate travel on any open seat on all Southwest flights.
Discounts on Other Airlines, Hotels, and Rental Cars: Through reciprocal agreements and partnerships, you can often secure discounts for travel on other airlines, as well as reduced rates on hotels, rental cars, theme parks, and more. This significantly enhances your travel opportunities both for work and leisure.
Sub-heading: Paid Time Off and Other Benefits
Paid Leave: The new contract includes paid maternal and paternal leave.
Vacations, Personal Time, and Sick Time: Southwest provides ample paid time off, allowing for a good work-life balance.
Holidays and Disability Benefits: Additional forms of paid time off and support for unforeseen circumstances.
Recognition Programs: Southwest values employee recognition, often utilizing programs like "SWAG points" that can be redeemed for merchandise, gift cards, or unique experiences.
Step 5: Factors Influencing Your Earnings
While the figures above provide a solid overview, several factors can influence a Southwest flight attendant's exact earnings.
Sub-heading: Seniority
Seniority is King (or Queen)! In the airline industry, seniority is paramount. The longer you've been with the airline, the more preferential treatment you get in terms of: * Higher Hourly Rates: As seen in the pay scale, hourly rates increase significantly with years of service. * Better Schedules: More senior flight attendants often have access to more desirable routes, bases, and work schedules, which can lead to more consistent flight hours. * Choice of Base: Seniority can influence your ability to be based in your preferred city.
Sub-heading: Location (Base City)
While the core pay scale is consistent, the cost of living in your assigned base city can impact your overall financial comfort. Some cities may have a slightly higher average salary due to higher living expenses.
Sub-heading: Number of Flight Hours
Your pay is directly tied to the hours you fly. Some months you might fly more, and some less, which will directly affect your monthly income. Flight attendants can often pick up additional trips (known as "open time") to increase their hours and earnings.
Sub-heading: Additional Responsibilities
Taking on roles such as a Lead Flight Attendant or Inflight Trainer can come with additional pay or stipends.
Conclusion: A Rewarding Career with Room for Growth
Becoming a new flight attendant at Southwest Airlines offers a competitive starting salary, typically in the range of $35,500 to $42,499 annually (around $33.55 per hour as of May 2024), but this is just the beginning. The career path at Southwest is designed for substantial financial growth with experience, potentially reaching over $100,000 annually for veteran flight attendants.
Beyond the salary, the comprehensive benefits package, including excellent health coverage, robust retirement plans with generous company contributions, and unparalleled travel privileges, makes a career with Southwest truly rewarding. It's not just about the money; it's about being part of a company with a strong culture, a commitment to its employees, and the exciting opportunity to explore the world while helping others.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to become a Southwest Airlines flight attendant?
To become a Southwest Airlines flight attendant, you typically need to be at least 20 years old, have a high school diploma or GED (college coursework preferred), authorization to work in the U.S., and a valid passport. You must also meet physical requirements, including the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. The hiring process involves online application, assessments, interviews, and a training program.
How to apply for a flight attendant position at Southwest Airlines?
You can apply for a flight attendant position directly through the Southwest Airlines Careers website (
How to prepare for a Southwest Airlines flight attendant interview?
Preparation for a Southwest flight attendant interview often involves researching the company's culture ("LUV"), reviewing common behavioral interview questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time you handled a difficult customer"), practicing your responses, and ensuring you present a professional and friendly demeanor.
How to pass Southwest Airlines flight attendant training?
To pass Southwest Airlines flight attendant training, you must be dedicated, highly motivated, and able to quickly learn and retain a large amount of information, especially regarding safety procedures. Punctuality, a positive attitude, and teamwork are also crucial.
How to get hired by Southwest Airlines as a flight attendant?
Getting hired by Southwest Airlines as a flight attendant is highly competitive. Focus on highlighting your customer service skills, safety consciousness, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Emphasize your alignment with Southwest's "LUV" culture.
How to maximize earnings as a Southwest Airlines flight attendant?
To maximize your earnings, focus on building seniority, which will give you access to higher pay rates and more desirable schedules. Additionally, picking up extra flight hours (open time) when available and potentially pursuing leadership roles can boost your income.
How to understand the Southwest Airlines flight attendant seniority system?
The Southwest Airlines flight attendant seniority system is based on your date of hire. The earlier your hire date, the higher your seniority. Seniority dictates everything from bidding for routes and bases to vacation accrual and promotion opportunities.
How to utilize Southwest Airlines flight attendant travel benefits?
Southwest Airlines flight attendant travel benefits allow you and your eligible dependents to fly free or at a reduced rate on Southwest flights, typically on a "space available" basis. You simply list for a flight and board if there are open seats.
How to maintain a good work-life balance as a Southwest Airlines flight attendant?
Maintaining work-life balance as a flight attendant can be challenging due to irregular schedules. Utilizing your paid time off, carefully bidding for schedules that suit your lifestyle as your seniority grows, and actively engaging in self-care are key strategies.
How to advance your career as a Southwest Airlines flight attendant?
Career advancement typically involves gaining experience and seniority to move up the pay scale. You can also explore opportunities to become a Lead Flight Attendant, an Inflight Trainer, or transition to other roles within the airline, such as in operations or training departments.
