southwest airlines gun travel policy

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Safe and Legal: The Complete Guide To Flying With a Gun [2023]

Christy Rodriguez

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Can I Be Armed on an Airplane?

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If you’re overwhelmed with the thought of traveling on an airplane with a gun, you might be surprised to know that it’s actually quite simple to travel with a firearm if you take the time to plan ahead.

As long as you’re well-informed of the requirements to safely and legally bring your firearm onboard, it doesn’t have to be complicated!

We’ll discuss which firearms are allowed on planes, how these items should be transported, all of the requirements so that you can appropriately check your weapon at the ticket counter, and best practices to expedite the declaration process.

TSA Firearms Policy

If you’re wondering whether you can bring a gun on a plane, the short answer is yes — with some caveats. If you’re traveling within the U.S. and are at least 18 years of age, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows travelers to transport unloaded firearms and/or ammunition in approved containers in their checked luggage only .

Bottom Line: Airlines typically defer to the rules of both TSA as well as the state/country you’re visiting.

Weapons TSA allows to be transported in checked luggage include:

• Starter pistols
• Compressed airguns
• Firearm parts — including magazines, clips, bolts, and firing pins
• Replica weapons

Hot Tip: Empty gun holsters and rifle scopes are allowed through TSA checkpoints in your carry-on and/or checked luggage.

Unless you belong to one of the groups listed below, you can’t bring your firearm on an airplane . These groups include:

• Trained, authorized air marshals
• Members of law enforcement who have passed the TSA Law Enforcement Officer Flying Armed Training Course
• Commercial pilots who have passed the Federal Flight Deck Officer Program and been granted specific authorization

For more information, see the TSA’s website for law enforcement .

TSA-approved Storage Carriers

The weapon must be secured in a container that prevents it from being accessed. The TSA says : “Locked cases that can be easily opened are not permitted. Be aware that the container the firearm was in when purchased may not adequately secure the firearm when it is transported in checked baggage.”

Be sure to remove all magazines and confirm also that there are no rounds chambered within your gun. In addition, all locks must be secured. For example, if your storage container has 4 locking points, all 4 need to be secured with a lock.

When choosing a TSA-approved case for your weapon, know that the TSA allows you to pack multiple guns into the same hard-sided case , however, this may not be true for all airlines. Be sure to confirm your airline’s rules before picking out the best case for your needs.

TSA-approved Travel Cases for Handguns

• Case Club 1 Pistol & Accessory Pre-Cut Waterproof Case
• Case Club 3 Pistol & 3 Magazine Pre-Cut Waterproof Case
• Pelican Storm iM2200 Case

TSA-approved Travel Cases for Pistols

• Eylar 48″ Inch Protective Roller Tactical Rifle Hard Case
• Pelican Protector 1700 Series Rifle Cases
• SKB iSeries Single Rifle Case

Hot Tip: Replica firearms must also be placed in your checked luggage, but do not need to be declared.

TSA-approved Locks for Firearms and Ammunition Cases

If your case does not come with a combination or other lock, you can purchase the locks you need separately. Keep this key on your person at all times . In this instance, you do not want a TSA-approved lock as you do not want anyone accessing your weapon except for you.

Per Title 49: Transportation, Part 1540 – Civil Aviation Security: General Rules, Subpart B – Responsibilities of Passengers and Other Individuals and Persons, 1540.111 (c) (iv) , “The container in which it is carried is locked, and only the passenger retains the key or combination.”

Here are a few recommended options:

• Master Lock Covered Aluminum Lock
• Master Lock Padlock, Set Your Own Combination Luggage Lock

Per the TSA website , there are certain weapons that would not be permitted in either checked or carry-on luggage , including flare guns, flares, gun lighters, gunpowder, and rocket launchers.

TSA Ammunition Policy

If you are wondering how to bring ammo on a plane, the rule is the same as firearms . Ammunition is only allowed in checked luggage, not in your carry-on. Ammunition must also be declared at the airport check-in counter .

Ammunition must be stored in either its original packaging or in a TSA-approved container. TSA notes that this container must include “a fiber (such as cardboard), wood, plastic, or metal box specifically designed to carry ammunition.” Ammunition cannot be loose in your luggage.

Shotgun shells of any gauge and ammunition of .75 caliber or less can be packed in this smaller ammunition case and then placed into your firearms case.

The TSA doesn’t note specific limits for the amount of ammunition you can bring but states that it limits it to a reasonable amount for “personal use” during a trip. However, per the Federal Aviation Administration , “international ( ICAO / IATA ) regulations and some airlines in the U.S. limit this to 5 kg (11 pounds) gross weight per passenger.”

TSA-approved Ammo Boxes

• CASEMATIX Hard Shell 9mm Ammo Box
• Evergreen 100 Round Bullet Locking Storage Case
• MTM Multi Gauge 25 Round Shotshell Box
• Declare your items. Once you arrive at the airport, you must head to the agent at the check-in counter of your airline and inform them that you’re traveling with firearms and/or ammunition.
• Fill out and sign a Weapons Declaration Card. This card differs slightly for each airline but will contain your flight information, contact information, and an acknowledgment that you are adhering to the rules. A copy will be given back to you and you should place it inside the locked hard-sided case which contains your gun and/or ammunition.
• Prepare for inspection. You will be asked to open the case for inspection by the check-in agent. Open the item yourself, and be sure to lock it once the inspection is finished. Do not give your key or code combination to the agent.
• Pay fees. Pay any required checked baggage fees or special handling fees specific to your airline.
• Bring your firearm to the Oversized Baggage Drop area. A TSA agent will scan your case, and potentially inspect it again. TSA shouldn’t physically handle your firearms. If necessary, this should only be done by a law enforcement officer.
• Leave your case. At this point, your checked-in (and locked) weapon will be taken by TSA and will be inaccessible during the flight. You can collect it with the rest of your checked-in luggage once you land.
• Keep an ear out just in case. After you’ve finished declaring your firearm, it’s a good idea to stick around for 15 to 20 minutes in case another inspection is necessary. You may also be paged on the airport speaker if required.
• Collect your weapons and ammunition. Upon arrival, your weapon will likely end up in the Oversized Baggage area but may end up coming out with the regular luggage. Find an airline representative if you’re unsure where to look. Be prepared to show your baggage claim ticket and your photo ID, if necessary.

Hot Tip: Cases should not be marked that there is a weapon inside. Per 18 USC 922 , “No common or contract carrier shall require or cause any label, tag, or other written notice to be placed on the outside of any package, luggage, or other container that such package, luggage, or other container contains a firearm.”

If you have questions for a specific state — such as “Can I travel with my gun to Florida?” or “Can I fly out of California with a firearm?” — you probably already know that each state has different rules and regulations regarding weapons and ammunition.

Because each state is different, we recommend thoroughly researching these rules for the destination you are visiting before your trip. Don’t forget to look into any places you have a layover as well.

Here are some good resources:

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
• Concealed Carry Reciprocity by State
• Gun Laws by State

If you plan to travel internationally with a firearm in your checked baggage, you must take some additional steps.

• Check the U.S. Department of State’s website for any relevant notices for the country you are visiting.
• Check the  International Travel Country Information page for your destination to check requirements before travel. The country may have its own set of gun laws and forms to fill out when traveling with a gun. Some countries require submitting forms and paying fees in advance of your trip.
• Fill out CBP Form 4457   before traveling abroad . Filling out this form for guns and ammunition will expedite your trip through customs when returning to the U.S. (this form is also available in the Customs office at the airport).
• See the airline policies and procedures below before you book. Some airlines don’t allow firearms/ammunition on any international flights.

Hot Tip: Don’t forget about connecting flights. You must also adhere to the local gun laws of every place you land.

U.S. Airline-specific Gun Policies

To make it more complicated, each airline has its own slightly different gun policies. These differences typically relate to how many firearms are allowed per case, the maximum amounts of ammunition allowed, and how to check/retrieve your guns and ammunition. Be sure to read the fine print before you head to the airport.

As most airlines have similar policies, we’ll specifically call out anything that differs from the TSA policies we’ve noted above. We have also included the links to the gun policies for the major U.S. carriers.

Alaska Airlines allows 50 pounds of ammunition on most of its flights. There is no limit to the number or type of firearms (e.g. rifles, shotguns, pistols) per case and different firearm types may be in the same case.

The airline also requests that you have a baggage tag inside your luggage.

Allegiant’s contract of carriage notes that “there is no limit to the number of firearms or corresponding accessories a passenger can carry in the locked hard-sided container.” The rest of the guidelines follow the TSA policies noted above.

There is no limit to the number of items you can carry in your rifle, shotgun, or pistol case. Different types of weapons can be placed together as long as they are secure. American Airlines specifically notes that cable locks can’t be used.

Delta has specific information about guns and ammunition for certain countries that it flies to, notably, South Africa, the U.K., and South Korea.

Frontier does not allow weapons on any international flights, even in checked luggage.

JetBlue says it may have pistol cases available for purchase at any JetBlue ticket counter for a nonrefundable fee of $55, but notes that quantities are limited. JetBlue does place limits on what constitutes a checked bag.

One item of shooting equipment equals:

• 1 rifle case containing no more than 2 rifles, with or without scopes, 1 shooting net, noise suppressors, and a small rifle toolset
• 1 shotgun case containing no more than 2 shotguns
• 1 pistol case containing no more than 4 pistols

With regards to ammunition, JetBlue requires it to be in a separate container that can be placed in the same checked bag, but is “completely separate and distinct from the firearms locked box.” Ammunition is not allowed on international flights — even in your checked luggage.

Southwest Airlines generally follows the TSA policies noted above but also gives specific guidance for paintball and airsoft guns.

Firearms and ammunition are not allowed on international flights.

Each checked bag may only contain 5 firearms, however, there is no limit to the number of cases or bags you can check (excess luggage fees will apply).

United Airlines also provides detailed guidance for firearms and ammunition for many of its foreign destinations on its website.

If you take the time to prepare before you leave for your trip, you can be sure you can have the correct storage containers, appropriately factor in extra time at the airport check-in counter, expedite your time declaring your gun, and avoid any costly fines.

It’s important to remember that when you’re flying with a gun, there are some specific rules you need to follow. The TSA, your airline, and your travel destination(s) all have policies and regulations you need to be aware of. As long as you familiarize yourself with these requirements before you head out on your next trip, flying with a gun doesn’t have to be complicated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you travel with a concealed carry.

You cannot bring a gun with you onto a plane, except in your checked luggage. The TSA requires that weapons be unloaded, stowed in locked hard-case luggage, and declared at the check-in counter. You cannot bring a concealed carry weapon through TSA security checkpoints.

Do you need a permit to fly with a gun?

You do not need a permit to transport your gun with you on a plane, but you cannot bring it in your carry-on luggage (unless you qualify for one of the limited exceptions). Your gun will need to be in your checked luggage. You will need to declare your luggage at the airport check-in counter and sign any paperwork mandated by the airline.

Can you fly with a gun?

You can fly with a gun in your checked luggage as long as you follow TSA regulations, the policies of the airline you are flying, and local, state, and federal laws. This normally requires that guns are unloaded, locked in a hard-sided case, and declared upon check-in. There may also be limits related to how these items are packed or the number of guns/ammunition you can travel with as well.

Can I bring a gun in checked luggage?

Yes, you can travel with a gun in your checked luggage. Be sure to declare your gun at the airport check-in counter and be sure to follow all policies that we’ve noted above related to TSA, your airline, and local gun laws. If you plan ahead and know the rules, flying with a gun doesn’t have to be painful!

What happens if TSA finds a gun?

TSA may impose civil penalties of up to $14,950 per violation per person. Specific violations may also warrant a criminal referral.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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How to Travel with a Firearm on Southwest Airlines: A Guide

Traveling with a Firearm on Southwest Airlines: A Guide

Air travel is a convenient way to get around, but it can be tricky if you’re traveling with a firearm. Southwest Airlines has specific rules and regulations for transporting firearms, and it’s important to be aware of them before you book your flight.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of traveling with a firearm on Southwest Airlines. We’ll cover everything from what types of firearms are allowed to how to properly pack your firearm. We’ll also provide tips for making your trip as smooth as possible.

So if you’re planning on traveling with a firearm on Southwest Airlines, read on for all the information you need.

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How To Travel With Firearm Southwest?

Legal Requirements

Federal Laws

The federal government regulates the transportation of firearms in interstate commerce. The Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) sets forth the basic federal requirements for transporting firearms. These requirements include:

• Firearms must be unloaded and in a locked container.
• Ammunition must be in a separate locked container.
• The person transporting the firearm must be at least 18 years of age.

In addition to the GCA, there are a number of other federal laws that may apply to the transportation of firearms. These laws include:

• The National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA) regulates the possession of certain types of firearms, such as machine guns and short-barreled shotguns.
• The Arms Export Control Act (AECA) regulates the export of firearms and ammunition.
• The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) further regulates the export of firearms and ammunition.

In addition to the federal laws, each state has its own laws regarding the transportation of firearms. These laws can vary significantly from state to state. It is important to be aware of the state laws in the states you will be traveling through when transporting a firearm.

Southwest Airlines Requirements

In addition to the federal and state laws, Southwest Airlines has its own requirements for transporting firearms. These requirements include:

• Firearms must be checked in at the ticket counter.
• The person transporting the firearm must present a valid photo ID.

Packing Your Firearm

When packing your firearm for travel, it is important to take the following precautions to ensure safe transportation:

• Use a sturdy, hard-sided case that is specifically designed for transporting firearms.
• Lock the case and keep the key with you at all times.
• Pack the firearm unloaded and separate from the ammunition.
• Label the case with the words “Firearms” or “Contains Firearms”.

Items Prohibited From Being Packed With Your Firearm

The following items are prohibited from being packed with your firearm:

• Blasting caps

By following these tips, you can safely transport your firearm when flying Southwest Airlines. However, it is always best to check with the airline before your flight to ensure that you are in compliance with all of their requirements.

• Use a sturdy, hard-sided case that is specifically designed for transporting firearms. The case should be large enough to accommodate the firearm and all of its accessories, and it should be strong enough to withstand rough handling.
• Lock the case and keep the key with you at all times. This will help to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm.
• Pack the firearm unloaded and separate from the ammunition. This will help to prevent accidental discharge.
• Label the case with the words “Firearms” or “Contains Firearms”. This will help to alert airport security personnel to the presence of the firearm.

By following these tips, you can safely pack your firearm for travel. However, it is always best to check with the airline before your flight to ensure that you are in compliance with all of their requirements.

3. Checking Your Firearm

When you’re checking your firearm at the airport, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

• First, you need to make sure that your firearm is unloaded and that the ammunition is stored separately. You can do this by removing the magazine from the firearm and ensuring that the chamber is empty. The ammunition should be stored in a separate, locked container.
• Second, you need to declare your firearm to the airline at check-in. You will need to present your firearm and the ammunition to the airline employee, and you will be given a firearm declaration form to complete. The firearm declaration form will ask for information such as the make, model, and serial number of your firearm, as well as the number of rounds of ammunition you are carrying.
• Third, you need to pack your firearm in a hard-sided case that is locked. The case should be large enough to accommodate your firearm and the ammunition, and it should be securely locked. You should also make sure that the case is clearly marked as containing a firearm.

Here are the specific steps for checking your firearm at the airport:

1. Unload your firearm and remove the ammunition. 2. Place your firearm and the ammunition in a hard-sided case that is locked. 3. Complete the firearm declaration form. 4. Present your firearm and the declaration form to the airline employee at check-in. 5. Follow the airline’s instructions for checking your firearm.

What Documents Do You Need to Present When Checking Your Firearm?

When you’re checking your firearm at the airport, you will need to present the following documents:

• Your firearm declaration form
• Your driver’s license or other government-issued ID
• Your boarding pass

Additional Information

• You may also be required to present a copy of your concealed carry permit, if you have one.
• The airline may charge you a fee for checking your firearm.
• You may not be able to check your firearm if you are flying to or from a state that has certain restrictions on firearms.
• It is always a good idea to check with the airline in advance to make sure that you understand their firearm policies.

4. Traveling With Your Firearm

When you’re traveling with your firearm, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

• First, you need to make sure that your firearm is unloaded and that the ammunition is stored separately. This is the same rule that applies when you’re checking your firearm at the airport.
• Second, you need to pack your firearm in a secure location. The best place to pack your firearm is in a locked suitcase or gun safe. You should also make sure that the firearm is not visible to other passengers.
• Third, you need to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding firearms. Some states have stricter laws than others, so it is important to make sure that you understand the laws in the state you are visiting.
• Fourth, you need to be respectful of other passengers. When you’re traveling with your firearm, it is important to be aware of the fact that other passengers may be nervous or uncomfortable around firearms. You should do everything you can to make them feel comfortable.

Here are some tips for traveling with your firearm:

• Be aware of the airline’s firearm policies. Each airline has its own firearm policies, so it is important to make sure that you understand them before you travel.
• Pack your firearm in a secure location. The best place to pack your firearm is in a locked suitcase or gun safe. You should also make sure that the firearm is not visible to other passengers.
• Be respectful of other passengers. When you’re traveling with your firearm, it is important to be aware of the fact that other passengers may be nervous or uncomfortable around firearms. You should do everything you can to make them feel comfortable.

Traveling with a firearm can be a safe and easy process if you follow the proper procedures. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that you travel with your firearm safely and legally.

How do I check a firearm with Southwest Airlines?

To check a firearm with Southwest Airlines, you must:

• Call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792 at least 24 hours in advance of your flight.
• Present your firearm to the check-in agent at the airport.
• Complete a Firearms Declaration Form (ATF Form 5473).
• Pay a $50 fee per firearm.
• Your firearm must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided case.
• You must carry the key to your firearm case with you on your person.
• You must present your firearm case to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for inspection.

What are the firearm restrictions for Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines does not allow the following firearms on board its flights:

• Incendiary devices
• Mace or pepper spray
• Stun guns or Tasers
• Knives with blades longer than 4 inches
• Brass knuckles
• Billy clubs
• Throwing stars

Can I carry a firearm in my checked baggage on a Southwest Airlines flight?

Yes, you can carry a firearm in your checked baggage on a Southwest Airlines flight. However, you must follow all of the firearm regulations listed above.

What happens if I bring a firearm to the airport by mistake?

If you bring a firearm to the airport by mistake, you will be asked to surrender your firearm to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The TSA will then destroy your firearm.

I have a concealed carry permit. Can I carry my firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight?

No, you cannot carry a firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight, even if you have a concealed carry permit.

I am a law enforcement officer. Can I carry my firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight?

Yes, law enforcement officers are allowed to carry their firearms on Southwest Airlines flights. However, they must follow all of the firearm regulations listed above.

I am a member of the military. Can I carry my firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight?

Yes, members of the military are allowed to carry their firearms on Southwest Airlines flights. However, they must follow all of the firearm regulations listed above.

I am a hunter. Can I carry my firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight?

Yes, hunters are allowed to carry their firearms on Southwest Airlines flights. However, they must follow all of the firearm regulations listed above.

I am traveling with a firearm for self-defense. Can I carry my firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight?

No, you cannot carry a firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight for self-defense. You must only carry a firearm on a Southwest Airlines flight if you are a law enforcement officer, a member of the military, or a hunter.

In this blog post, we have discussed how to travel with a firearm on Southwest Airlines. We covered the following topics:

• The firearm must be unloaded and in a locked case.
• The case must be hard-sided and meet certain size requirements.
• The case must be placed in the checked baggage compartment.
• You must declare the firearm to the airline at check-in.
• You must present a valid firearms permit or license.

We hope this information has been helpful. Please let us know if you have any other questions about traveling with a firearm on Southwest Airlines.

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SOUTHWEST AIRLINES FLIGHT ATTENDANTS RATIFY NEW CONTRACT

April 24, 2024

DALLAS , April 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Airlines Co.  (NYSE: LUV) announced today that its Flight Attendants, represented by the Transport Workers Union Local 556, voted in favor of a new collective bargaining agreement. In addition to industry-leading compensation increases, the new agreement incorporates refined on-call scheduling for Southwest Airlines ® Flight Attendants and other quality-of-life enhancements, including Company-paid maternity and parental leaves.

"Our Flight Attendants embody Southwest's legendary Hospitality as they take care of our Customers and keep them safe throughout their travels," said Adam Carlisle , Vice President Labor Relations at Southwest Airlines. "This agreement rewards our Flight Attendants and includes provisions that strengthen Southwest's operation."

The contract covering nearly 20,000 Southwest ®  Flight Attendants becomes amendable in 2028.

Since October 2022, 11 union-represented workgroups at the airline have ratified new agreements:

• Appearance Technicians
• Customer Service Agents, Customer Representatives, and Source of Support Representatives
• Dispatchers
• Facilities Maintenance Technicians
• Flight Attendants
• Flight Instructors
• Material Specialists
• Mechanics and Related Employees
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ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.  Southwest Airlines Co.  operates one of the world's most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and Hospitality at 121 airports across 11 countries. Southwest took flight in 1971 to democratize the sky through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel and now carries more air travelers flying nonstop within the United States than any other airline 1 . Based in Dallas and famous for an Employee-first corporate Culture, Southwest maintains an unprecedented record of no involuntary furloughs or layoffs in its history. By empowering its nearly 75,000 2  People to deliver unparalleled Hospitality, the maverick airline cherishes a passionate loyalty among more than 137 million Customers carried in 2023. That formula for success brought industry-leading prosperity and 47 consecutive years 3  of profitability for Southwest Shareholders (NYSE: LUV). Southwest leverages a unique legacy and mission to serve communities around the world including harnessing the power of its People and Purpose to put communities at the Heart of its success. Learn more by visiting Southwest.com/citizenship . As the airline with Heart, Southwest has set a goal to work toward achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Southwest has also set near-term targets and a three-pillar strategy to achieve its environmental goals. Learn more by visiting  Southwest.com/planet .  

1 Based on U.S. Dept. of Transportation quarterly Airline Origin & Destination Survey since Q1 2021 2 Fulltime-equivalent active Employees        3 1973-2019 annual profitability      

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Southwest drops service to multiple airports because of Boeing problems

(CNN) - Southwest Airlines is closing operations at four airports because of delays with Boeing jet deliveries.

The airline will no longer serve Bellingham International Airport in Washington state, Cozumel International Airport in Mexico, and Syracuse Hancock International Airport in New York.

While service to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport will also be suspended, the airline will continue to serve the city’s older and smaller Hobby Airport.

Southwest says it had to address the operational and financial impacts of Boeing’s manufacturing delays.

Meanwhile, Southwest announced it lost $218 million in the first quarter of 2024, despite making a record first-quarter gross revenue of $6.3 billion.

Copyright 2024 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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Southwest Airlines flight attendants land new contract with immediate 22% raise

Flight attendants at american airlines and united airlines are still bargaining for a new contract..

By Alexandra Skores

1:44 PM on Apr 24, 2024 CDT

Southwest Airlines flight attendants voted in favor of a new contract on Wednesday, the first contract among unionized flight attendants at major airlines.

Transport Workers Union Local 556, which represents Southwest’s nearly 20,000 flight attendants, announced Wednesday that the contract had passed. Voting was open April 10-24 and closed at noon Wednesday. The union and Southwest have been in negotiations since 2018, and this is the third tentative agreement on the table.

Some 92.7% of eligible union members voted, with 81% casting a ballot to approve the deal and 19% against.

The contract is a four-year deal beginning May 1 and expiring May 1, 2028, and it includes an immediate 22% snap-up raise and 3% raises in 2025, 2026 and 2027. It also includes retroactive pay to make up for not having any raises since the last contract went up for negotiation.

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“This was about our members raising their voices and choosing to lift not only themselves, but also an entire industry. With their tenacity and perseverance, the flight attendants of Southwest Airlines have shown that we can do great things when we are committed to standing in solidarity,” said Lyn Montgomery, president and lead negotiator of TWU Local 556, in a statement. “It’s an honor and privilege to serve this membership in such a time as this.”

Currently, a flight attendant at the “topped-out” level makes $63.30 per hour at an 80-hour “trip for pay” month, the formula Southwest uses to calculate wages, according to TWU Local 556. That equates to $5,064 a month in base pay, not including extras like premiums or holiday pay. TWU Local 556 says that means a flight attendant would be making $60,768 a year in base pay at the highest level.

In the new contract, that same level of flight attendant would make $77.43 an hour, or $6,194 a month. That would bring the annual salary to $74,332, before extra incentives or bonuses.

There’s also a ratification bonus. All flight attendants are eligible for the bonus based on individualized 401(k) eligible earnings, and it is paid in two installments. According to the union, it’s worth “no less than $364 million.”

The new contract introduces new maternity leave benefits, including six weeks paid for natural birth and eight weeks paid for cesarean section births.

“Our flight attendants embody Southwest’s legendary hospitality as they take care of our customers and keep them safe throughout their travels,” said Adam Carlisle, vice president of labor relations at Southwest. “This agreement rewards our flight attendants and includes provisions that strengthen Southwest’s operation.”

Related: Southwest Airlines flight attendants reach new deal after rejecting contract in December

Flight attendants at major U.S. airlines have been without a contract for years now, including those at Fort Worth-based American Airlines , who are represented by the Association of Professional Flight Attendants, while all major U.S. airlines’ pilots have received new deals. United Airlines flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, picketed earlier this month and used Southwest’s agreement as a talking point during their picket.

It’s the third agreement on the table. In June, the union’s executive board rejected a contract proposal from the company . Then, a few months later in October, it had another tentative agreement on the table, but ultimately voted to reject the contract in December .

This year, flight attendants at Southwest voted in favor of authorizing a strike following the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association achieving a new deal. Shortly after, their deal was announced in March .

It’s the last workgroup to ratify a contract with Southwest. The airline has ratified 11 labor deals since Oct. 2022.

Alexandra Skores , Aviation Reporter . Alexandra Skores is the aviation writer for The Dallas Morning News, covering airlines, air travel and the aerospace industry. She's a graduate of the University of Iowa. Alexandra has previously worked at the Oregonian in Portland, Oregon and The Gazette in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

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Flight attendants at Southwest Airlines seal deal for 22% pay hikes next month

Flight attendants at Southwest Airlines have ratified a contract that includes pay raises totaling more than 33% over four years, as airline workers continue to benefit from the industry’s recovery since the pandemic.

The Transport Workers Union said Wednesday that members of Local 556 approved the contract by a margin of 81% to 19%. The union’s board rejected a lower offer last summer, and flight attendants  voted against  a second proposal in December.

Southwest has about 20,000 flight attendants. They will get raises of more than 22% on May 1 and annual increases of 3% in each of the following three years.

The union said the contract provides record gains for flight attendants and sets a standard for other flight attendants. Cabin crews at United Airlines and American Airlines , which are represented by other unions, are still negotiating contracts.

The union said the deal gives Southwest crews the shortest on-duty day and highest pay in the industry, compensation during disruptions like the Southwest meltdown in December 2022, and industry-first paid maternity and parental leave. Workers will also split $364 million in ratification bonuses, according to the union.

Dallas-based Southwest, the nation’s fourth-biggest airline, said the contract includes changes in scheduling and will help the airline’s operation.

Pilot unions at Delta, United, American and Southwest approved contracts last year that raised pay by more than one-third over several years. This week, Delta said its flight attendants and other nonunion workers will get  5% raises .

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