Southwest Airlines is partnering with Louisiana Tech Aviation to increase the program’s usable fleet size and improve safety. The $38,000 Southwest Airlines D255 University Partner Grant allows the University to purchase new aircraft electronics for one of the fleet’s Cessna Skyhawks. The upgrade will allow the aircraft to send and receive location signals, creating a safer environment for student aviators and surrounding aircraft.
“The new equipment will expand opportunities for training in this particular aircraft,” said program director Monty Montgomery. “This makes our program safer and more efficient for the pilots we’re training.”
Last year, the University entered a partnership with Southwest Airlines and their pilot training program to help anchor Tech’s commitment to ensure its students are better prepared for jobs in the 21st-century workforce.
“The committee applauds your commitment to reducing costs for students,” Darr Jenkins, Southwest Airlines corporate responsibility program manager, said. “We look forward to continuing to collaborate and witnessing your program help future pilots achieve their dreams.”
The Destination 225° University Pathway identifies high-potential aviators and provides them with a defined route to building relevant flying experience at a partner carrier. After gaining flying experience, individuals can envision a career as a Southwest pilot. Participants receive mentorship and various networking, informational, and engagement opportunities at the University and at the airline’s training facility. Headquartered in Dallas, Southwest operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines.