Pilot Requirements

Southwest Virtual Airlines welcomes pilots of all experience levels and backgrounds. From real-world airline pilots to the flight simulation beginner, there are plenty of opportunities here for you to learn, grow and advance within the VA. We are happy to welcome new members to the organization and completing the application for employment is the first-step to becoming a Southwest Virtual Airlines pilot. In order to be hired by Southwest Virtual Airlines, it is imperative that applicants understand that we strive to maintain a fun, light and rewarding environment, while – at the same time - ensuring a level of professionalism and proper conduct befitting a top flight virtual airline.

Further, applicants are required to familiarize themselves with Southwest Virtual Airlines by reading the Pilot Operations Handbook (POH).

Our hiring requirements are as follows:

• You must be at least 13 years old and certify that you comply with all laws and regulations regarding minors participating in online organizations
• You must use your real name on the Southwest Virtual Airlines application
• Previous VA experience is not necessary, though desired
• You must have and maintain a valid email address at all times during your Southwest Virtual Airlines employment
• You must have a legal, valid copy of either Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 or X
• You must have an online flying capability
• You must be a member of VATSIM in good standing with no record of negative or disciplinary issues
• By completing the application for virtual airline employment, you certify by your application that you have read and understand the Southwest Virtual Airlines policy statements and procedures outlined in the Pilot Operations Handbook.

• File their first PIREP within 14 days of hire
• Remain an active participant by flying and filing at least one (1) PIREP per month
• Take part in the development and operations of the Virtual Airline
• Share information, talents or comments on our Forums
• Remember your actions speak volumes of your virtual airline
• Follow the Southwest Virtual Airlines policies and procedures, as outlined herein

New Pilot Information

Southwest Virtual Airlines has established high standards for conduct within the VA. Pilots flying online and participating in Southwest Virtual Airlines community activities (such as the Forums) must ensure proper, mature and professional conduct AT ALL TIMES. Any disruption or abuse reported from a VA member, VATSIM, management or other source shall be investigated and dealt with.

Southwest Virtual Airlines is a flight simulation airline modeled after the real-world Southwest Airlines. Though not mandatory, flying online through VATSIM is highly encouraged. Pilots are encouraged to learn online flying by taking the Southwest Virtual Airlines VATSIM course and by reading through the VATSIM forums. Plenty of help is available from our staff.

To maximize the online flying experience, Southwest Virtual Airlines also encourages participation in our Fly-In Events program, which can be found under the Calendar section on the Southwest Virtual Airlines web site.

All pilots flying online shall be automatically credited with a 1.2 hour for each actual flight hour multiplier. VATSIM flights will will be randomly verified by management through VATAWARE on a regular basis. If it is found that a pilot has checked "VATSIM" in LuvCARS and the flight(s) cannot be verified, the pilot may be subjected to disciplinary measures, which could include loss of pay, loss of rank, suspension or termination.

Pilots may transfer previously logged virtual airline hours – as shown on the initial application – provided the hours can be verified through VATAWARE and through your previous virtual airline(s). Once hired, new pilots must file their first PIREP within thirty (30) calendar days for review and approval, or the pilot’s account will be terminated.

Rank Structure

Rank	Flights
Trainee	0 (start)
Second Officer	1
First Officer	30
Captain	70
Senior Captain	140
Executive Captain	250
Chief Pilot	400