New Website Released
Southwest Virtual Airlines launched a new website. The airline currently has over 1800 active pilots.
Welcome to Southwest Virtual Airlines!
Welcome to Southwest Virtual Airlines (SVA), where passion meets innovation in the virtual aviation world! Inspired by the real-world operations of Southwest Airlines, we offer an immersive, community-driven environment for flight simulation enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Who We Are
Founded in 2008 by a small group of pilots with a vision to make a difference, SVA was built on the principle of being a virtual airline run by pilots, for pilots. Over the years, we have grown from a handful of dedicated members into a thriving community of over 1,500 active pilots—and we’re still climbing!
With 12 crew bases across the United States, a talented team of staff and volunteers, and an unwavering commitment to operational realism, SVA is more than a virtual airline; It’s your gateway to connecting, learning, and soaring to new heights.
Come experience the Heart of Virtual Aviation at Southwest Virtual Airlines!To Become the World’s Most Loved, Most Flown, and Most Enjoyable Virtual Airline.
Dedication to the highest quality of flight simulation with a sense of realism, warmth, friendliness, and company spirit.
Fly with a vast network of real-world schedules, utilizing our state-of-the-art LUVCARS system for dispatch releases, payload data, and an interactive co-pilot to enhance your journey.
Our virtual fleet consists of Boeing 737-700s, 737-800s, and the latest 737 MAX8s. In addition to our current fleet, we offer the opportunity to fly retro flights, using substitutions for former aircraft once flown by Southwest Airlines, adding a nostalgic and varied experience for our virtual pilots. All members, regardless of rank, have full access to our entire fleet, ensuring everyone can enjoy the thrill of flying any aircraft from day one.
As a VATSIM-accredited ATO, we offer P1-P4 ratings and optional Boeing 737 training/type ratings, ensuring our pilots reach their full potential.
Build your career with our dynamic ranking system, earn awards, and enjoy perks like discounts on flight simulation hardware and scenery.
Our History
2025
Release of Interactive Co-Pilot
SVA unveiled its Interactive Co-Pilot feature within LUVCARS 5 and surpassed 1,800 active members, solidifying its position as a leader in the virtual aviation community.
2024
LUVCARS 5 Released
The release of LUVCARS 5 introduced enhanced dispatch and pilot support tools in April. SVA grew to over 1,500 active members.
2023
SVALife Launched
Membership exceeded 1,000 active pilots, and the innovative SVALife program was launched to enhance the member experience.
2022
Training Department
The Training Department was established, and SVA became an Authorized Training Organization (ATO) with VATSIM. It became the only North American VA to offer training from Private Pilot License (PPL) to Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) ratings, surpassing 850 active members.
2021
New Website
A new website launch marked a milestone year, with SVA growing to over 500 active pilots.
2017
New Partners
SVA updated its branding to reflect Southwest Airlines' real-world rebranding. This included updated liveries and a revamped website, boosting membership to 350 pilots.
2014
Foundation
Southwest Virtual Airlines (SVA) was founded by Ryan Flynn, Steve Cocks, Tony Pitt, and Kevin Hornaday. Their vision was to create a virtual airline designed for pilots, prioritizing community and collaboration over competition. Within its first year, SVA welcomed 75 pilots.