The Flight Path Ahead for Southwest Virtual Airlines
Dear Pilots,As we move into the final month of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we have been on as a virtual airline. Just over 16 years ago, Southwest Virtual Airlines (SVA) was founded with a simple vision: to create a virtual airline built for pilots—a welcoming, inclusive, and innovative community, rather than one driven by competition.
Back then, we began as a small group of just 75 pilots, united by a shared passion for aviation. Today, we are a thriving community of over 1,800 members, representing one of the largest and most engaged virtual airlines in the world. Our growth has been a testament to the dedication and talent of each of you—whether you’ve been here since the beginning or joined us more recently. Together, we have built something truly extraordinary.
With this growth comes the need to ensure that SVA remains positioned for a sustainable and vibrant future. After much reflection, I have decided to step down as CEO of Southwest Virtual Airlines, effective January 1, 2025. This decision was not made lightly, but it reflects my full confidence in the future of SVA and in the leadership that will guide us forward.
I am eager to announce that SVA will transition to being owned and operated by a nonprofit organization. Matt Grimes, will begin transitioning from his current role as Chief Operating Officer to Chairman of the Board of Directors for the nonprofit. This poises Matt to ensure SVA has the structure and oversight it needs to thrive in the years to come. I am deeply grateful to Matt for his service and dedication to Southwest Virtual, and I know his influence will continue to be a guiding force to this community.
Furthermore, I would like to name Braden Thompson to take over as CEO on January 1, 2025. Braden’s experience and commitment to our mission make him an excellent choice to lead SVA into blue skies. In the coming days, he will share his vision and announce additional leadership team updates.
As I look ahead, my greatest wish is that we continue to build upon our legacy, finding new ways to engage, grow, and set the standard for what a virtual airline can achieve. The future of SVA is bright, and I am confident that it will remain a community where aviation enthusiasts can connect, learn, and inspire one another.
While I will no longer serve as CEO in the New Year, I am not saying goodbye. I will remain a part of this community as a pilot on the Flight Operations team and will continue to offer support for LUVCARS 5. Stepping back from the day-to-day management of SVA will allow me to focus on what I love most: being a pilot and enjoying the incredible community we have all built together.
Finally, as we reflect on the spirit of Thanksgiving, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you. Your dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to this organization have made SVA what it is today. Thank you for being part of this journey, and for the continued trust and support you have shown.
I am excited for what lies ahead and cannot wait to see all that we will accomplish together in this new chapter.
Best Regards,
Ryan