About the role#
This internship provides hands-on experience in airline operational control, strategic planning, and process improvement. You will work alongside leaders and subject matter experts in the Network Operations Control department to support projects that improve the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the Southwest network. This role offers exposure to one of the largest domestic airline operations in the world.
What you'll do#
- Support Dispatch Operations projects through research, analysis, and documentation.
- Develop operational reports, presentations, dashboards, and performance metrics.
- Analyze operational data to identify trends in network performance, delays, fuel efficiency, and operational reliability.
- Participate in operational briefings, project meetings, and cross-functional discussions.
- Evaluate workflows to identify opportunities for process improvement and support implementation activities.
- Conduct research and benchmarking related to airline operations, industry best practices, and emerging technologies.
- Partner with teams across Flight Operations, Network Planning, Crew Scheduling, Maintenance, Meteorology, and Air Traffic Management.
- Support change management, communication, and training efforts for operational initiatives.
- Prepare summaries and recommendations for leadership review.
What you'll need#
- Progress towards a degree, major, or minor in Aircraft Dispatch, Aviation Management, Aviation Science, Aeronautics, or Professional Flight.
- Current enrollment as a full-time student, preferably working toward a 4-year undergraduate degree.
- Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA at the time of application.
- At least 3 semesters remaining at the end of the internship is preferred.
- Foundational knowledge of aviation weather, air navigation, Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), aircraft performance, and 14 CFR Part 121 operations.
- Completed coursework in flight dispatch or equivalent.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.
- Experience with data visualization and reporting tools is preferred.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with an attention to detail.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Must be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid U.S. Social Security Number.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site internship located at our headquarters in Dallas, Texas.
- The program runs from May 18 to August 6, 2027.
- You must be available to work 40 hours per week during normal business hours.
- This position does not offer work authorization sponsorship.
About Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines operates as a public airline company based in Dallas, Texas. Founded in 1971, the company provides air transportation services. It maintains a workforce of over 40,000 employees. The business focuses on customer service and low-cost travel.
How to get in at Southwest Airlines
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