Southwest Airlines Lowers Minimum Pilot Requirements: Report

southwestern airlines It is reported that the number of hours that future pilots must spend flying jet and other aircraft powered by gas turbine engines is decreasing.

While the airline required applicants to spend at least 1,000 hours on such aircraft, The Wall Street Journal said Saturday it will now consider applicants with less experience of this kind.

The publication said the change would go into effect on February 7, citing message sent to pilots This week.

The carrier has reportedly noted an increased demand for highly skilled pilots in the industry.

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Pilot Authority listed on the Southwest website indicate that 500 hours in a fixed-wing turbine aircraft is “preferred”.

southwestern airlines told FOX Business in an emailed statement that it has exceeded its 2022 hiring target and is in the early stages of reaching its expanded 2023 target.

“Our robust and rigorous flight operations training program has not changed, and all current and future first officer candidates are required to complete all elements of the training program prior to flying to Southwest,” the airline said. “Because this change in recruitment is due to employment at or above FAA requirementswe will continue to select competitive world-class aviators who demonstrate great flying experience, professionalism and Southwest values.”

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The magazine emphasized that Southwest plans to expand its ranks by 1,700 pilots this year.

Read more about this story at FOX Business.