40 Years in 40 Days: Class of 2007

[gherwig]

Please pardon the cliché, but time has really flown by since 2007. It feels to me like it was just last week that I was hired as a First Officer at Southwest Airlines! Four short years ago, some of the more memorable events at Southwest Airlines included:  Accepting delivery of our 500^th aircraft; retaining open seating but enhancing our A, B, and C boarding groups; returning our service to SFO (San Francisco International Airport); and opening a new Pilot and Flight Attendant Crew Base in LAS (Las Vegas McCarran International Airport).

For me, 2007 is certainly most memorable as it is the year I embarked on the journey of a lifetime at Southwest Airlines. My flight plan as a brand new Employee officially took off in April 2007 as the youngest member of Pilot New Hire Class 2007-12. There were 24 eager, smiling faces in our class, each bringing our own unique experiences and skills from all across the wide spectrum of the aviation world. We were definitely a diverse and well-rounded group, excited to join the ever-growing and all-inclusive Southwest Airlines Family.

Our New Hire Training was intensive, but it seemed to move by quickly, with four weeks of ground school classes followed by two weeks of sessions in the flight simulator. After completing all the tests and checks of training, New Hire Class 2007-12 spread out across these United States to do what we signed up for: fly airplanes! But in addition to the world-class flight training we received during our time at the Flight Operations Training Center in Dallas, TX, we also were introduced to what it means to live and work the Southwest Way.

Working hard – Southwest Warrior Spirit in the classroom

To live the Southwest Way means three things: Work hard, follow the Golden Rule, and have FUN.

To work the Southwest Way means three things, in this specific order: Focus on Safety, Focus on Service, and Focus on Efficiency.

Focus on Service – Captain Jeff Lampe (L) and First Officer Jeff Heiges (R) had the honor of flying WWII veteran Fred Bird. Fred was a navigator on a B-17 when his aircraft was shot down in Germany.  He and nine other crew members parachuted into enemy territory and were held as POWs for 19 months. They were released when Germany was liberated.

If I had to pick just one thing that has resonated with me during these first four years of excitement as an Employee at Southwest Airlines, it would have to be living and working the Southwest Way. It is a part of our Company DNA. It is a platform for each of us as Employees to use day in and day out, to serve our Customers and support our Coworkers.

Fun-LUVing Family – Three good Friends and Coworkers joining me for a light-hearted and humorous portrait while having some Company sponsored FUN.

It is clear that the Spirit and Teamwork of so many Employees from across the Company form the core of our unrivaled success: A Family of Fun-LUVing, dedicated, and hard working People focused on providing all of our Customers with Safe flights, the best Customer Service in the industry, and top-notch efficiency.

From Southwest’s very first flight 40 years ago in 1971, the People of Southwest Airlines have always made a difference. While serving our Customers for the next 40 years – and beyond – each of us will strive to do our part.  We will continue to live and work the Southwest Way.

From the junior member of New Hire Class 2007-12: Happy 40^th Birthday Southwest Airlines!!!

[Noria_Namaz]

How come there were no African American pilots in the graduating class? What are the requirements to qualify.

[Samuel_P_Molina]

Since flying the triangle San Antonio, Houston, Dallas and the attendants in hot pants I have been flying Southwest Airlines. Although my flying is limited now, whenever I do fly, Southwest Airlines continues to be my first choice. I am 69 years old and have been there, done that. Although I have done that, been there with Southwest Airlines, I will continue to do so.

[Walter_Lamkin]

I'm a 3.5 million mile flyer and a member of nearly every frequent traveler club. Or used to be. I held platinum status or its equivalent on many airlines and retain some yet. I seldom fly those carriers any longer despite the perks. The reasons are simple: Reliability and dependability Every time I fly Southwest Airlines--every single time--the employees from the cockpit to the rear live the focus you mention. I've seen mechanical delays, weather cancellations and the like, but I've never been confronted by rudeness or carelessness. Ever. Is air travel different than it once was? Less exciting, glamourous? Would I rather have a guaranteed seat--in First Class? Of course, As long as I need to fly, however, I'll take the Southwest model over the rest. I appreciate the service from each of you. Bon voyage.

[Rosemary_Ferald]

I have been a long time fan of SWA and I use your company to fly whenever I can. I love the service, humor, ease of changing plans, price and the fact that you are usually "on time". Nobody does it better! Thank you SW!

[Shellie_Banks]

I am considering going to flight school only problem is I have narcolepsy, controlled by medication. Can anyone tell me if this would stop SW from hiring me?

[Ruth_Ann_Sforza]

Love your attitude...I don't like flying but you make it fun...you remind me of a flight I took in the '80s on Pacific Southwest Air from San Jose to LA. the attendants were funny...sang ne words to Gilligans Island theme...even with my air sickness, I laughed...please keep up your great sense of humor!

[Margaret_Steven]

Love the idea of the employees sharing from day one until 40th anniversary . I have finally become one of those "non-nervous nellies" as I opt for a bulkhead seatwhere I can keep my eye on the flight attendants, door to cockpit and the bathroom! Congrats on hiring the absolute best who care first for our safety, then our comfort and happiness. Southwest has earned and maintains the No. 1 slot ....keep on keeping on!!

[Margie_Basaraba]

We had the pleasure of having Mr Howard Putnam, a previous SWA CEO, as our keynote speaker at our Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Dinner last night. His story & the story of the SWA culture was inspiring. So glad that he came to Spokane!

[Jill_Stocking]

You guys ROCK I have flown for many years with you, and you always make it so fun. You take the hum ha away from flying. And give the passengers the hum hee.. and your humor is great!! In the world where the airline industry is struggling you are still here and and making people happy when they fly! Keep rocking the skies!

[patrick_kwok]

I live in the San Francisco bay area where there are lots of Asain Americans flying Southwest Airline and yet when you run ads on TV there are hardly any Asain Americans participaing in the ads. It will be nice if these ads are inclusive of all the customers Southwest serves

[Ann_Lloyd_Hunte]

Recently, I traveled to Chicago with my 35 year old handicapped son. He's a man, and not easy to move around but, he's sweet natured and pretty happy all the time. He gets very excited when I take him on an airplane! We usually travel SOUTHWEST. This time we flew another airline. I was amazed at how they treated us. SOUTHWEST has always been helpful and gracious even though my son needs help to board and deplane. They have treated him with respect and kindness. I was pleased and grateful but, I guess I took it for granted. On my recent trip ( on another airline ) the staff seemed annoyed. They commented on how hard he was to move, and how we were slowing them down. ( We always arrive early to the gate so staff knows that he needs the aisle chair. ) On a beautiful day, on the flight he'd been looking so forward to, he didn't look out the window and marvel at the view. He just kept saying, " I'm sorry mommy, I'm sorry mommy ". It broke my heart. I'll never fly that airline again. I'll always fly Southwest if at all possible. They hire GOOD PEOPLE!!!

[Rolaine_Smoot]

I tell people all the time, that SW is my favorite airline! Then when they ask why I tell them. Service,Price and Fun!!! Now we are both celebrating our 40th anniversary.My wedding one will be Oct.23. It was this date or Halloween LOL!

[Suzy_Simpson]

I remember also Southwest Airlines awhile ago. I was in a transition in my life and was flying coast to coast with Southwest Airlines. Well, one trip from Las Vegas, NV to Baltimore, MD; a lay over at LAX and then in TN (can't remember what airport; remember it is a while ago(haha). Well, I was a little depressed and the flight attendents were so friendly and making everyone so comfortable as much they could for such a long flight. I was very suprised when we were landing at the TN airport because right when we landed on ground, the flight attendants of course explained the rules of sitting till we stop but what caught my eye and everyone else is that our flight attendants started singing a cute Southwest Airlines song. I am sure everyone enjoyed the song because after the song was over, all the passengers clapped and whistled and it really made me feel good to know that they just wanted us to smile and that is one of the many things I love about Southwest Airlines

[Brigitte1]

Where are the women? Do you hire women?

[Collins]

Happy to see one female in the group

[Joan_Fell]

My husband and I were married June 18, 1971, so it will be our 40th anniversary too! We are regular Southwest fliers and we use Southwest whenever possible. Congratulations to such a well-run company. Best wishes for another 40 years of continued success.

[N_]

REALLY.....Why does everything have to do with race? Why can't we just be excited for the individuals that accomplished something wonderful!! Maybe no African American pilots applied.......

[Michelle_A__Mar]

There is only one woman in the picture. Wouldn't it have been the gentleman like thing to do to put her somewhere in the front? Didn't rub well with me.

[Shirley1]

yes, Southwest Airlines

[Betty_Ferrill]

Southwest Employees, We would like to thank all employee's at Southwest Airlines for such great service. We started flying in the early 90's, me and my husband have our rapids rewards We keep our Southwest Credit card, this gets us flights faster. We put our childrens college bills on our card over the years. The best flights have been with the flight attendents going to LasVegas. When we fly home to San Antonio from Las Vegas everyone is quiet on our flight. We enjoy them singing and just being such great people. Our dream is to fly our grandaughter in Dallas, Texas to Disney World in Florida. She was born with a kidney problems and has had nine surgerys since she was 5 years old. She wants to see the Princess at Magic Kingdom. Keep up the good service and we are happy that Southwest is now serving such a large number of cities. Thank you. Betty and Wayne Ferrill

[Suellyn_Perry]

This was a very nice tribute to all of your staff. Especially liked the picture of the gentleman who was a world war 2 veteran. Since my husband who is in a wheel chair now was treated very well when we fly. Southwest. Your staff on the aircraft were so kind everytime we fly with your airline. Good Luck in the future and we are looking forward to flying back to AZ in Sept..on Southwest Airline.

[Martha_Farrellb]

I will be a FIRST TIME customer of Southwest Airlines this summer; flying to Fort Worth Airport to visit my eldest son & family who just relocated to Texas...so far they love it....I hope I love flying Southwest:).....your posts by employees gives me some insight to the mind frame of your employees. I have not booked flight yet.....hoping for a "special" to be seen on the website!. This venture of letting potential customers of Southwest see your operation from a personal standpoint is a good one in my mind!

[Dorothy_Yakovak]

You have no idea how "catching" is the enthusiasm within the last post. . .If only we could turn back the clock, we'd investigate working with your fine company. . . Frequent Flyer for MANY years. Dottye Yakovakis

[Felisa_Lyons]

Congratulations Southwest. Flying isn't fun like it used to be, though you make it better than everyone else!! Keep at it.

[Sharon_Pikul]

Great Job!!! I luv flying Southwest. The staff is always having such a good time that it gets me in a happy mood. May you have another 40 years.

[Mary_Ann_Vigila]

Where are the women pilots?

[JD_Cormack]

Don't we smile, accept good news as opposed to being like mainstream media and investigative reporters and tabloids have taught us???? WE look for bad before we notice any good. It's not race...IT'S EVERYTHING. We have forgotten how good we have it here verse many other places. Some places may cut your tongue out for speaking out..let alone bad breath coming out. Hmmmmmmmmmmmm!

[W__P__Cleary]

I only see one woman in all those pictures and that is something that bothers me.

[JJ_Sharper]

Are you saying the reason you don't see any African Americans in that picture suggests discrimination? What else might it suggest? Think about it.

[Vicki_Ferraro]

To Noria, John and all the race card players, if you fly Southwest on a regular basis, you will see for yourself that there is a very good mix of ethnic groups represented in the cockpit and the cabin. Having been a cabin attendant myself, there is no tolerance for prejudice on the airlines. When we had layovers, we were assigned two people to a hotel room, two people, not two whites or two blacks and so on and so on. We were mixed together and we lived together, all as people, not ethnic categories. It is my opinion that the airlines hire according to qualifications more than any other profession. But I guess there will always be people that will complain, for the sake of complaining. You need to be better informed before you criticize.

[Kimberly__Schne]

HAPPY 40th BIRTHDAY SOUTHWEST AIRLINES!!! It will be easy to remember since that is also my birthday. I'm just older. Love flying your airlines. Keep up the good work, God Bless you all, and Thanks for your great service and hospitality. Kim S.

[David_Suskind]

It actually looks like there is a Latino pilot in the bottom row on the very left.....Not left as in liberal but left as in the position of the row!! Does that count??

[Terry_DeGregori]

Thanks SW: for years my grandchildren thought I lived at the airport. You made it easy for me to just "pop" into MacArthur Airport on Long Island whenever I wanted to visit the kids. I have probably shown my grandkids pictures to at least one flight attendant on each flight and each and every time, it breaks the ice for a nice conversation about kids and family, and ends with how much they love their job and and the people they get to meet. That's really what it's all about. Enjoying where you are going, the family you have, and loving your job. Happy 40th.

[Barbara_Wheeler]

I'm a long term SWA frequent flyer. I can tell you SWA is a very diverse company. I see folks from all ethnic backgrounds who work throughout the company. Just because you didn't see the color of someone's face doesn't mean they are NOT represented . As others have already stated, race or gender, is not the issue here, IT'S SAFETY !!!

[Deborah_lathen]

I love flying Southwest, but was shocked to see how non-diverse these pictures are. One woman in the first picture practically lost among all the men and zero people of color. How did you manage to do that and more importantly why?

[Alinda_J_Eggles]

I switched from US Air to Southwest and I'm glad I did!

[Barbara_R_]

Look at the other pictures on the page and check the April & May 2011 pictures. In other words, do not jump to conclusions based on one picture.

[rosarie_krieger]

I would like to know how I can receive a promotion code

[Carol_Ann_Chamb]

While waiting for the birth of my grandson I booked a flight on Southwest during the Thanksgiving holidays. I wanted to be sure I could get there. I changed my flight reservation several times before he was finally on the way. Thank you, Soluthwest, for getting me there on time!

[Kate_Butler]

While a lot of comments are about the color or gender of the Pilots....doesn't eveyone remember that 'Stewardess's' were ALWAYS female. Now the majority of 'Flight attendants' are male. Many still female and of all races. We, the flying public, don't often always see who is in the cockpit. Hopefull they are outside checking the aircraft or checking the instrument panel. I don't care who is flying the plane as long as they are qualified.

[james_c__older]

Race comments aside, pilots are hired based on experience, most come from military service and disproportantly few blacks are pilots in military. I'd like to see more women up front, too few in my flying.

[nancy_cobb]

It has indeed been a pleasure to fly Southwest Airlines through the years. Congratulations to forty years of impeccable service. I shall continue to enjoy the feeling of safety and caring that is always evidenced by pilots and staff. We need to focus on the excellent performance of those working at Southwest and appreciate the job they do rather than the petty negatives some people feel compelled to express. Thank you Southwest!

[LuveSW]

Thank you Southwest for the fun and safety flight that I can always count on. You guys are awesome! Keep up the good work!!!