About Southwest Animal Transport Team (SWATT Transport)
Southwest Animal Transport Team (SWATT Transport) is a 100% volunteer-driven, service-based, independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping rescued animals reach safety, loving homes, rescues, and sanctuaries.
SWATT is made up of Southwest Airlines employees, dependents, retirees, and dedicated volunteers who generously donate their time and, when eligible, their non-revenue travel benefits to transport rescued pets throughout the continental United States, Puerto Rico, and the interislands of Hawaii.
Our volunteer transporters, known as Flight Angels, fly standby and personally escort rescued animals in the aircraft cabin, providing a safe and compassionate journey to their next destination.
Our Story
Founded in April 2017, SWATT began as a collaborative effort among animal rescue organizations, foster-based nonprofits, shelters, and sanctuaries. Our mission started with a simple goal: help save the lives of small dogs and cats by providing access to transportation and giving them a second chance at a safe and loving life.
Today, SWATT continues to support nonprofit organizations working to protect animals and build stronger, more compassionate communities.
Our mission is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and service. We are committed to helping rescue organizations move animals to safety and supporting the creation of life-saving communities nationwide.
Supporting Rescue Organizations
SWATT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that also raises funds and provides grants to help nonprofit organizations with transportation-related needs.
Through these efforts, we help provide the resources and mobility necessary to support critical missions, including rescue, relocation, and community service operations.
Southwest Tickets for Time (T4T)
SWATT proudly participates in the Southwest Airlines Tickets for Time (T4T) program.
Approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations participating in the SWATT Program may earn one round-trip domestic travel award, provided as a flight e-pass, for every 20 qualified volunteer hours logged. Each organization may receive up to eight (8) T4T awards per calendar year.
Transport Requests
SWATT has a strong record of successfully filling Transport Requests (TRs) by working with Flight Angels to identify available routes, schedules, travel dates, and flights that best meet the needs of each transport.
Because our Flight Angels volunteer their time and travel standby, flexibility is essential to a successful transport.
Urgent or last-minute requests may not always be accommodated. Every Transport Request is reviewed and addressed on an individual basis based on volunteer availability, route, schedule, and other operational considerations.
Transport Requirements
Compensation for animal transportation is not permitted. SWATT transports are volunteer-based, and Flight Angels may not receive payment or other compensation for providing transportation services.
All transports must be coordinated through the SWATT Program and must comply with applicable Southwest Airlines Pet Policies and the Southwest Airlines Employee Travel Privilege Policy (ETPP).
Beginning August 27, 2026, the Pet Fee will be waived for charity transports arranged by SWATT Transport.
All participants in the SWATT Program are expected to understand and comply with the Southwest Airlines Code of Conduct and Employee Travel Privilege Policy (ETPP) whenever utilizing Southwest Airlines travel privileges in connection with SWATT.
To become an approved SWATT Rescue Partner, a rescue organization must be a verified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and complete the SWATT Rescue Partner application and approval process.
Participant Acknowledgment
By participating in a SWATT transport, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to comply with:
Our shared commitment to these policies helps ensure that every transport is conducted safely, responsibly, and with the best interests of the animal, Flight Angel, rescue organization, and Southwest Airlines in mind.
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Rescuing animals. One flight at a time.
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