It is not unusual for us to interview more than 100 people to fill a single position. We intentionally spend an inordinate amount of time on the recruiting and hiring process. Since we believe that our employees are the key to our success, we hire tough at Southwest.

Getting a job at Southwest Airlines is considered highly competitive due to its legendary corporate culture and extensive employee benefits. In 2026, Southwest continues to receive hundreds of thousands of applications annually for only a few thousand open positions, often boasting a lower "acceptance rate" than some Ivy League universities. The hiring process is designed to find individuals with a "Warrior Spirit," a "Servant's Heart," and a "Fun-LUVing Attitude." Candidates typically undergo a multi-stage screening process that includes a resume review, phone or virtual interviews, and sometimes rigorous in-person group assessments to evaluate teamwork and cultural fit. For highly technical roles like pilots or flight attendants, the requirements are even more stringent, involving background checks and physical assessments. While the barrier to entry is high, Southwest emphasizes partnership and long-term career growth, making the effort well worth it for those who resonate with their unique, people-first philosophy.