Southwest Airlines' Compensation Committee has approved new base salaries and long-term incentive targets for its named executive officers, effective August 15, 2026. This adjustment aims to align executive compensation more closely with its three largest U.S. airline peers (American, Delta, and United) to enhance the retention of key senior talent amid increased role complexity and external recruitment activity.
Key Details
- CEO Compensation Update: President & CEO Bob Jordan's annual base salary will increase to $1,225,000, and his long-term incentive opportunity target is now 1200% of his base salary.
- Other Executive Increases: Other named executive officers, including the COO and CFO, also received significant increases, with new base salaries of $815,000 and $805,000, respectively, and long-term incentive targets of 500%.
- Effective Date: All approved changes to base salaries and incentive targets will take effect on August 15, 2026.