SOUTHWEST AIRLINES H-1B Visa Sponsorship & Salary Data

The median H-1B salary at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES is $130,000, based on 526 certified filings from FY 2020 to FY 2026. This is 8% higher than the national H-1B median salary of $120,000. Compensation at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES reflects their market positioning, with entry-level roles starting around $116,979 and senior positions reaching $149,781 or higher. These figures represent base salaries in LCA filings and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other compensation common at large employers.

Salaries at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES range from $106,432 at the 10th percentile to $149,781 at the 90th percentile, showing a $43,349 spread across experience levels and roles. The 25th percentile is $116,979 and the 75th percentile is $141,300.

Yes, SOUTHWEST AIRLINES actively sponsors H-1B visas in FY 2026. In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), SOUTHWEST AIRLINES filed 16 H-1B labor condition applications with 16 certified and 0 denied, at a median salary of $156,998. Across FY 2020–2026, they have filed 539 total H-1B applications with 526 certified and a 0.6% lifetime denial rate, demonstrating ongoing commitment to hiring international talent. SOUTHWEST AIRLINES sponsors positions across multiple job categories and locations, making them a viable option for professionals seeking H-1B visa sponsorship.

In the most recent fiscal year (FY 2026), SOUTHWEST AIRLINES filed 16 H-1B applications, with 16 certified and 0 denied. Over 7 years of data, SOUTHWEST AIRLINES has consistently demonstrated commitment to H-1B sponsorship.

Note: These are Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) filed with the Department of Labor, which is a prerequisite for H-1B petitions. The actual number of H-1B petitions filed with USCIS may differ.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's LCA (Labor Condition Application) denial rate is 0.6%, with 3 out of 539 applications denied across all years. This translates to a 99.4% certification rate, which indicates how successfully the company prepares and files H-1B applications. A lower denial rate suggests better compliance with Department of Labor requirements, proper wage documentation, and accurate job classification. Prospective H-1B applicants should consider this approval rate alongside other factors like salary, job role, and location when evaluating SOUTHWEST AIRLINES as a potential H-1B sponsor.

This is a good approval rate, comparable to industry averages. SOUTHWEST AIRLINES demonstrates reliable H-1B sponsorship practices.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES sponsors H-1B visas for various specialty occupation positions requiring at least a bachelor's degree. Based on 526 certified filings, the most commonly sponsored job titles reflect the company's primary business functions and talent needs. These positions typically require specialized knowledge in fields like technology, engineering, finance, or scientific research. Understanding which roles SOUTHWEST AIRLINES most frequently sponsors can help job seekers target their applications effectively.

Most common H-1B job titles at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES:

The most frequently sponsored role is Senior Software Engineer with 156 filings at a median salary of $134,992. This is followed by Senior Systems Engineer (90 filings) and Software Engineer.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's H-1B positions are distributed across multiple U.S. locations, with concentration in major metropolitan areas and tech hubs. Geographic distribution often reflects company office locations, client sites, and regional market demands. Location significantly impacts H-1B salary due to varying cost of living and local wage requirements. Understanding where SOUTHWEST AIRLINES sponsors H-1B workers can help candidates target specific offices and negotiate appropriate compensation for each market.

Top SOUTHWEST AIRLINES H-1B locations:

The largest H-1B hub for SOUTHWEST AIRLINES is Dallas, TX with 522 filings at a median salary of $129,210. The highest-paying location is Irving, TX at $149,781 median. Salaries range from $129,210 to $149,781 across office locations.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's median H-1B salary has increased by +38% from FY 2020 ($113,360) to FY 2026 ($156,998). Tracking salary trends over time reveals how SOUTHWEST AIRLINES adjusts compensation to remain competitive in the H-1B labor market. Salary growth typically reflects inflation adjustments, increased demand for specialized skills, and evolving prevailing wage requirements. These historical trends can help applicants understand future salary expectations and negotiate appropriately when considering H-1B opportunities at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES.

Year-by-year breakdown:

• FY 2022: $128,315 (149 certified)
• FY 2023: $134,992 (81 certified)
• FY 2024: $136,136 (102 certified)
• FY 2025: $149,781 (122 certified)
• FY 2026: $156,998 (16 certified)

This 38% growth reflects strong compensation adjustments at SOUTHWEST AIRLINES, keeping pace with market demands for H-1B talent.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES primarily files H-1B applications at Wage Level IV, accounting for 86% of their filings. DOL wage levels range from Level I (entry-level, 17th percentile of local wages) to Level IV (expert, 67th percentile). Wage level determines both salary requirements and, under recent H-1B rules, lottery selection priority. Higher wage levels receive preference in the H-1B lottery, making SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's wage level distribution an important factor for prospective applicants assessing their chances of H-1B selection.

With 100% of positions at Level II or higher, SOUTHWEST AIRLINES typically offers competitive wages above entry-level. Higher wage levels receive priority in the H-1B lottery.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's median H-1B salary of $130,000 is 8% higher than the national H-1B median of $120,000 across all employers and industries. This comparison provides context for evaluating SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's competitiveness in attracting H-1B talent. Keep in mind that industry, location, and job function significantly impact salary levels. Tech companies and financial institutions typically offer higher H-1B salaries than other sectors, while salaries in major metros like San Francisco and New York exceed those in smaller markets. Compare SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's offerings with similar companies in your field for a more accurate assessment.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES offers above-average H-1B compensation. Combined with their 526 certified filings and 0.6% denial rate, they demonstrate solid H-1B sponsorship practices.

Recent H-1B rule changes have increased filing fees and introduced wage-level prioritization in the lottery. SOUTHWEST AIRLINES's higher proportion of Level III-IV positions (93%) may benefit from wage-based lottery prioritization.

With 526 certified filings, SOUTHWEST AIRLINES invests significantly in H-1B sponsorship. The company's 0.6% denial rate suggests strong compliance with H-1B requirements and documentation standards.

Note: H-1B regulations are subject to change. Fees shown are estimates based on 2024 USCIS fee schedules. Actual costs may vary based on company size, premium processing, and future rule changes.