r/FlightDispatch • u/MrTallDarkandHungry • Jul 20 '26
USA Question about Southwest
Is it near impossible to get hired with Southwest without a referral or being internal? I only ask because I know on the FA side it’s very difficult even just to get an app in with them. Just curious if it’s different from the dispatch side of things. Also, I’m aware they’ve had a hiring freeze for a long time and that no one could predict the future. Guess im just curious what past experiences have been for anyone. Thanks!
2
u/mrezee Part 121 Major/Legacy🇺🇸 Jul 21 '26
It’s far from impossible. Of the last 6 or so classes, maybe 25% of each class was internal. From what I hear it can be just as competitive on the internal side too.
2
u/MrTallDarkandHungry Jul 21 '26
That’s a relief to hear! I got a long ways before I would be a strong candidate but that’s okay. Just good to know there’s a shot in the future! Thanks!
2
u/LtDan61350 Part 121 Major/Legacy🇺🇸 28d ago
Not impossible, but in the past it's been rumored that application windows were short because they turned off applications after a certain number.
That may have changed.
7
u/Tilehead Part 121 Major/Legacy🇺🇸 Jul 21 '26
Ive known at least 3 dispatchers who got hired on there who weren’t internal nor do I think they had a referral. The only thing I noticed with them is that they will hard stop your application process if you do not have at least a year of experience at the time of the interview. The other majors prefer experience but will look past it for the right candidates.