At Southwest Virtual Airlines, we proudly welcome pilots of all experience levels, whether you’re a seasoned real-world aviator or just starting out with flight simulation. Our community is open to everyone—well, almost everyone. Before you join, there are just three simple requirements to meet. Take a moment to review these guidelines, and once you’re confident you qualify, you’re ready to begin the application process!
You must own a valid copy of one of the following flight simulators:
Flight Simulator 2024 Flight Simulator 2020 X Plane Prepar3D Flight Simulator X Flight Simulator 2004Maintaining an internet connection is essential to your participation in any virtual airline. Our reporting technologies use the web to send information to our servers. If you do not have an active internet connection, you may want to consider waiting to apply.
Southwest Virtual Airlines pilots and staff are required to understand and adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). All policies that govern all pilots and staff are contained in the handbook. The handbook also covers the organizational structure, flight categories and equipment. All prospective pilots should download and read the SOP and become familiar with the policies and information contained there.
You can read our policies here.
If you meet the three requirements above, please click the button below.
At Southwest Virtual Airlines, having a valid email address helps us keep in touch and make sure you’re not already soaring the skies with an existing account. It’s a small but important step in getting you set up.
While you don’t need a VATSIM ID to fly with us, we do ask that you provide one during registration. It’s part of the onboarding process and helps us keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.