Southwest Airlines Interview Questions [Includes Prep Quiz]

Congratulations on getting a Southwest Airlines Interview.

We all know interviews are stressful and competition is intense.

However, with a small amount of preparation, you can ace the Southwest Airlines interview.

Here you will find frequently asked Southwest Interview Questions and Answers for all positions.

There is also a section for ramp agents, flight attendants, and customer service agents.

Southwest Airlines Interview Questions by role: Ramp Agent, Flight Attendant, and Customer Service.

Please note these are practice interview questions and we are not affiliated with the company mentioned in this post.

Southwest Airlines Interview Questions and Answers

1. Can you tell us about yourself?

Talk about your hobbies, previous work experience, and education. Keep your explanation brief and to the point.

2. Why do you want to work for Southwest Airlines?

State that you love working with people and have a passion for aviation. You believe that working at Southwest will allow you to combine both of these interests.
Mention that you would be grateful to work for an airline that offers affordable and accessible travel options to a wide range of individuals.
Express that you would also take pride in working for a company that has been recognized as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women by Newsweek, one of Forbes’ Best Employers in America, included in Fortune’s 2023 List of World’s Most Admired Companies, acknowledged by Newsweek as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity, and honored by Latino Leaders Magazine as one of the Best Companies to Work for Latinos.

3. How do your personal values align with those of Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines’ values are

Me (how I show up): Pride, Integrity, Humility,
We (How we treat each other): Teamwork, Honesty, Service with LUV,
Southwest (How Southwest succeeds) efficiency, discipline, excellence.

Example: “My personal values are strongly aligned with Southwest Airlines’ core values. I believe in maintaining a strong work ethic, acting with honesty and integrity, and fostering a cooperative environment. Teamwork, honesty, and the pursuit of excellence resonate with me. I value efficiency and discipline, and I understand the significance of safety. Overall, Southwest’s values mirror my beliefs and I’m excited about contributing to an organization that shares these principles.”

Strengths and Weaknesses Questions

4. What is your greatest strength?

I am a quick learner (this is a great answer because they will have to spend less time training you) or
I work well under pressure (this is a great answer because airlines get extremely busy and you need to stay focused during this time).

5. What is your greatest weakness?

It would help if you did not deny you have a weakness or state strengths as a weakness. For example, do not say “I am a perfectionist” or “I work too hard and neglect my friends and family”. State a fault required for the role but not a dealbreaker if you don’t have it.
When you state your weakness, make sure you say what you are doing to overcome that weakness. For example, I have a fear of public speaking and enrolled in a public speaking class to overcome my fear.

Southwest Airlines Company Information

6. What can you tell us about Southwest Airlines?

About Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is a U.S. low-cost airline and is considered one of the major airlines in the United States.
As of Dec 2022, Southwest operates in 121 airports across 11 countries.
The airline is the largest operator of Boeing Fleet.
Southwest is based out of Dallas Texas.
In addition to U.S. destinations, Southwest flies to Mexico, Jamaica, The Bahamas, Aruba, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Belize, and Cuba.
Southwest is mainly a point-to-point airline rather than connecting flights through a hub.
Southwest Airlines no longer overbooks on flights.
In 2011, Southwest acquired AirTran Airways.
In 2016, Southwest Airlines added three destinations to Cuba.
Think you know a lot about Southwest Airlines? Take our Southwest Interview Prep Quiz and see how well you do.

Southwest Airlines Purpose

Connect People to what’s important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel.

7. Who are Southwest Airlines’ competitors?

Researching a company’s competitors showcases your preparation, industry awareness, and ability to think strategically. It allows you to engage in meaningful conversations during the interview and positions you as a candidate who can contribute valuable insights and perspectives to the company’s success.

Competitors include JetBlue Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines.

Customer Service and Interpersonal Skills

8. How would you deal with an upset customer?

Example: First, I would determine the issue the customer is facing. If they have lost their luggage, I would make every effort to locate their belongings. In the case of a flight delay, I would provide an explanation for the delay. Additionally, I would emphasize the significance of ensuring customer satisfaction, as an unhappy customer is unlikely to return.

9. Can you describe a time when you went above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service?

Example: In my previous role with XYZ Airlines, I encountered a family of four facing flight delays and missed connections due to bad weather. Despite limited options, I managed to find an indirect route that got them to their destination with only a slightly longer travel time. I secured their new flights, provided meal vouchers, and ensured they were seated together. The family left the counter visibly relieved and grateful. This experience taught me the value of personalized solutions and maintaining a calm demeanor during challenging situations.

10. How do you handle customers from different cultural backgrounds or those who may not speak the same language fluently?

Example: Handling passengers from diverse cultural backgrounds or those who speak different languages requires sensitivity and adaptability. I prioritize clear and simple communication, using non-verbal cues and visual aids to bridge language gaps. If needed, I leverage translation tools or assistance from colleagues proficient in the passenger’s language. By being patient, respectful, and proactive in learning basic phrases, I ensure that every passenger feels valued and well-informed throughout their journey.

Additional Southwest Airlines Interview Questions

11. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Southwest Airlines will have many career opportunities. Take a look at their career section and find a position you could see yourself doing in five years.
If going to college or university state what you would like to be doing after you finish.

12. Why should I hire you?

Possible Answer is

State you are highly interested in joining Southwest Airlines because of your passion for the industry and admiration for the company.
Emphasize the possession of strong communication skills, both written and verbal, which would be beneficial for effectively working with customers and co-workers.
Say that you are organized, detail-oriented, and skilled at problem-solving.
State that you value teamwork and collaboration, and believe in fostering a positive work environment.
Finally mention you are adaptable and embrace new technologies.

13. Why did you leave your last job?

It is ok to leave a job but it is important to make sure they know you left on good terms.

Questions to ask at the end of the interview

14. Do you have any questions for us?

What do you like best about working here?
How do you describe your ideal candidate for this position?
What about this position is the most important?
How do you measure my success, and what could I do to meet your expectations?
Which part of the position has the steepest learning curve? What can I do to get up to speed quickly?
What opportunities will I have to learn and grow?

Southwest Airlines Interview Tips

Do as much research as you can about Southwest Airlines. The annual report is always a good place to start
Be prepared for situational-type interview questions.
Do not dress casually for the interview.
Be sure to review the job description and find the key skills they are looking for. For example, if you are interviewing for the position of a flight attendant, odds are they will want people who have strong communication skills and can multi-task. You need to show the interviewer you have the skills listed in the job description.

Southwest Airlines Ramp Agent Interview Questions

Can you explain your understanding of the ramp agent role and its responsibilities?

Ramp Agents ensure Ground Operations run smoothly and safely by supporting various roles “below the wing,” including directing planes on the ground and transporting baggage, cargo, and other flight essentials in the outdoor elements.

How do you prioritize tasks when there are multiple aircraft arriving and departing simultaneously?

Example: “Managing tasks during simultaneous aircraft arrivals and departures requires a balanced approach. I prioritize by communicating with teams, understanding flight needs, and addressing urgent tasks first. Safety remains paramount, followed closely by efficiency. By coordinating resources effectively and adapting to unexpected changes, I ensure tasks are completed without compromising safety or schedules.”

Why should we hire you as our ramp agent?

Say you are physically fit and you will not have any problems moving items of 70 pounds or more regularly.
State you have excellent communication skills which will help when communicating information and instructions verbally and/or via radio equipment.
Say pay excellent attention to detail which will allow you to ensure baggage gets to the right place.
State you work well under pressure.

Do you have a valid driver’s license?

You need to drive motorized equipment, such as belt loaders so you need a driver’s license.

What safety measures would you take while handling hazardous materials or dangerous goods on the ramp?

Example: Safely handling hazardous materials on the ramp requires strict adherence to protocols. I would follow recommended safety procedures provided by Southwest, use proper protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and appropriate clothing, ensure correct labeling and packaging, and adhere to guidelines for loading and securing. Constant communication, vigilance for leaks, and compliance with safety measures are my priorities.

What hours can you work?

The job description states you will need to be available to work a variety of shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays, and overtime so it is in your best interest to be as flexible when answering this question.

How do you work under pressure?

Obviously, airlines get very busy. Especially during the holidays. Give the interviewer a great example of how you worked well under pressure in school or your last job.

Southwest Airlines Flight Attendant Interview Questions

Why do you want to be a Southwest Airlines Flight Attendant?

Say you have excellent communication skills which will allow you to work well with the customer and other crew members.
State you have strong multi-tasking skills which will allow you to handle a wide variety of situations while in continuous contact with the public.
Say you pay strong attention to detail which will allow you to ensure the safety and comfort of our customers.
Mention you are a self-starter and team player, allowing you to work well independently or in a team.
Finally, mention you have strong leadership skills which will allow you to respond to various emergency and non-emergency situations.

Why should we hire you as a flight attendant?

Here you need to show how your previous and current work experience will benefit Southwest Airlines if they hire you for the job. For example, in my last job, I worked at a popular restaurant where I waited on customers. In my last job, I gained valuable work experience as I was able to demonstrate I was able to work well under pressure and multitask, all while providing excellent customer service.
State you are physically fit and will not have any issues standing for long periods. mention you can push or pull moveable carts weighing more than 250 pounds. Finally, say you will not have any issues helping customers with their baggage.

How would you define excellent customer service?

The flight attendant has exceptional communication skills and is always friendly to customers.
The customer is given assistance when necessary when putting their bags in the overhead compartment.
The flight attendant is always willing to assist anyone with special needs, children, or the elderly.

How would you deal with an upset customer?

First, state you would listen to the customer and understand the complaint.
Then state you would sympathize with the customer.
Next, say you would try and fix the problem.
Finally, mention you would learn from the experience and if the customer was still upset, say you would not let it impact your service to other customers.

How do you feel about relocating to a different city?

Tell the interviewer the truth but if you are willing to relocate make sure you sound enthusiastic.

Southwest Airlines Customer Service Interview Questions

Can you describe the job you have applied for?

Keep your answer brief. Simply state customer service agents handle ticketing, baggage check-in, baggage claims, reservations, information inquiries, and resolving complaints and problems.

Why should we hire you as our customer service agent?

Here we want to find out what skills and experience are required and reassure the interviewer you have the skills and experience to do the job.

Say you have excellent communication skills which will allow you to work well with customers.
State you work well under pressure.
Say you are physically fit and will not have any problems lifting items up to 70 pounds.
If you have any customer service experience now is the time to mention it.

How would you deal with a difficult customer?

First, state you would listen to the customer and find out what their complaint is.
Then say you would sympathize with the customer.
Next, help the customer with their complaint, and if you could not do anything you would escalate the problem to your manager.