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Southwest Airlines safety rating

Southwest Airlines scores 8.7 / 10 on the CalmFlights safety index, based on fatal-accident history, fleet age, pilot training hours and independent audits.

Safety rating
8.7/10
Fatal accidents (jet era)
1
Fleet size
820
Years operating
59

Why nervous flyers ask about Southwest Airlines

Southwest is the world's largest domestic airline by passengers carried, with an all-Boeing 737 fleet. Its single fatality came on WN1380 in April 2018, when an uncontained engine failure killed one passenger seated by a window. CFM has since modified the engine fleet to prevent recurrence.

By the numbers

  • Founded: 1967 (59 years operating)
  • Fleet size: 820 aircraft
  • Average fleet age: 12.1 years
  • Cumulative flights flown: 30.0 million
  • Fatal accidents (jet era): 1
  • Years since last fatal incident: 8
  • Average pilot command hours: 10,200
  • Certifications: IOSA certified · FAA Part 121
  • Incidents in the last 5 years: 1

How it compares

A safety rating of 8.7 places Southwest Airlines in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines hovers around 8.4.

What this means for you

Southwest Airlines maintains a strong recent record. Read the full breakdown above for context on each historical event.

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Data accuracy: Figures above are compiled from publicly reported sources including the Aviation Safety Network, ICAO, EASA, FAA and airline annual reports. Numbers are refreshed periodically and may lag recent events by several months. For authoritative accident-investigation conclusions, consult the relevant national investigation board (NTSB, BEA, AAIB, JTSB, TSB Canada, etc).

Frequently asked questions

Is Southwest Airlines safe to fly?
Yes. Southwest Airlines scores 8.7/10 on the CalmFlights safety index. It has had 1 fatal jet-era incident, with the last 8 years ago. Pilot command hours average 10,200, and the airline holds IOSA certified · FAA Part 121 certifications.
When was Southwest Airlines founded?
Southwest Airlines was founded in 1967 and has been operating for 59 years. It currently flies a fleet of 820 aircraft with an average age of 12.1 years.
How does Southwest Airlines's safety record compare to other airlines?
Southwest Airlines's safety rating of 8.7 places it in the upper tier of major carriers. The global average for IOSA-certified airlines is around 8.4. Over 30.0 million cumulative flights, the carrier has had 1 fatal incident.
How old is Southwest Airlines's fleet?
Southwest Airlines's fleet averages 12.1 years old. While older than the global average, all commercial aircraft must pass identical inspection cycles regardless of age.
How many incidents has Southwest Airlines had recently?
Southwest Airlines has reported 1 non-fatal operational incidents in the last 5 years. Note that "incident" in aviation often means minor events like engine warnings or runway excursions — most never reach passenger awareness. The fatal-accident count remains a more meaningful safety signal.