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Southwest Airlines pilots have recently addressed the perception that their planes taxi at speeds exceeding industry norms. Morgan Smith, a Boeing 737 first officer based in Orlando, clarified in a widely viewed TikTok video that Southwest enforces a taxi speed policy of 20 to 30 knots (approximately 23 to 35 miles per hour). This policy is consistent with those of other major U.S.-based carriers. Smith emphasized, "Even on a global scale, 99% of airlines do not permit their pilots to exceed a taxi speed of over 30 knots."
The perception of faster taxiing may arise from Southwest's operational model, often involving multiple shorter flights which can lead to more time spent on the ground compared to airlines with longer-haul flights. Cirium aviation analytics indicates that Southwest's 737s typically perform three to four shorter flights daily, offering point-to-point service. This operational strategy allows for quick aircraft turnarounds, which Smith notes often seem to push the upper taxi speed limit.
Taxi times are critical for maintaining on-time performance, as quicker taxis can offset delays from shorter flights. However, for larger aircraft operating longer-haul flights, taxi speeds are generally not as critical and stay well within the standard threshold.
