Quick Answer

Yes, SkyWest Airlines hires individuals with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis, but employment is severely restricted for roles requiring TSA security clearances and federal aviation safety certifications. As the largest regional airline in North America with over 15,000 employees operating flights for United, Delta, American, and Alaska Airlines, SkyWest must comply with strict Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. The greatest barriers exist for TSA permanently disqualifying felonies (espionage, terrorism, aviation security crimes, hazardous material violations, drug trafficking), violent crimes, and recent offenses within TSA's 7-year/5-year lookback periods. Corporate and administrative positions offer the best opportunities for applicants with records, particularly roles that do not require SIDA badge access to secure airport areas.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. Felon-Friendly Scorecard

3. Eligibility Checklist

4. 🚨 Critical Regulatory Information

5. Company Overview

6. Hiring Policy Analysis

7. Background Check Process

8. Application Strategy

9. Tips for Applicants with Records

10. Benefits Overview

11. Frequently Asked Questions

12. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

No TSA Permanent Disqualifiers: Must not have convictions for espionage, treason, sedition, terrorism, aviation security violations, hazardous material transportation crimes, or certain drug trafficking felonies these create lifetime bars from operational roles.

Outside TSA Interim Lookback: For non-permanent disqualifiers (weapons, theft, fraud, etc.), must be 7+ years from conviction date or 5+ years from prison release to qualify for positions requiring SIDA badges.

Pass Federal Background Check: Must successfully complete FBI fingerprint-based criminal history check revealing all arrests and convictions regardless of expungement, sealing, or age.

Pass DOT Drug Testing: Must pass mandatory pre-employment drug screening for all safety-sensitive positions (marijuana, cocaine, opiates, PCP, amphetamines).

Complete Honesty Required: Must disclose all criminal history when asked falsification is grounds for immediate disqualification and potential federal charges.

10-Year Employment History: Must be able to account for all employment, unemployment, and addresses for past decade for operational positions.

Work Authorization: Must have legal authorization to work in the United States.

🚨 Critical Regulatory Information

IMPORTANT: SkyWest Airlines' hiring practices are governed by federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations that override state fair chance hiring laws for operational aviation positions.

Federal Aviation Regulations – TSA and DOT Requirements

TSA Security Threat Assessment: All employees requiring access to secure airport areas (SIDA badge holders) must pass TSA Security Threat Assessment comparing criminal history against federally mandated disqualifying offenses lists.

DOT Safety-Sensitive Positions: Pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, ramp agents, and dispatchers are classified as safety-sensitive employees requiring mandatory drug and alcohol testing under 14 CFR Part 120 and 49 CFR Part 40.

FBI Fingerprint Checks: Federal law requires fingerprint-based criminal history checks for all operational aviation employees, revealing convictions regardless of state expungement or sealing.

TSA Permanently Disqualifying Felonies (No Time Limit)

The following convictions permanently bar SIDA badge eligibility at any time in your life:

• Espionage or conspiracy to commit espionage

• Sedition or conspiracy to commit sedition

• Treason or conspiracy to commit treason

• Federal crime of terrorism as defined in 18 U.S.C. 2332b(g)

• Transportation security incident resulting in significant loss of life or system disruption

• Improper transportation of hazardous material under 49 U.S.C. 5124

• Unlawful possession, use, or distribution of explosives or explosive devices

• Murder or conspiracy to commit murder

• Aircraft piracy or interference with flight crew members

• Making bomb threats or conveying false information about explosives on aircraft

• Unlawful possession or use of firearms/explosives on aircraft

• Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of the above offenses

TSA Interim Disqualifying Offenses (7-Year/5-Year Lookback)

Convictions for the following felonies are disqualifying if convicted within 7 years OR released from incarceration within 5 years (whichever is later):

• Unlawful possession, use, sale, manufacture of firearms or weapons

• Dishonesty, fraud, or misrepresentation including identity fraud and money laundering

• Felony drug distribution or trafficking

• Arson

• Extortion

• Kidnapping

• Robbery or burglary

• Theft or embezzlement

• Bribery

• Smuggling

• Immigration violations (felony level)

• Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of the above offenses

FCRA Compliance

Fair Credit Reporting Act: SkyWest must provide written notice and obtain consent before background checks. If denial is based on background results, must provide pre-adverse action notice with copy of report and time to dispute inaccuracies.

State Laws Limited Application: While some states have "ban the box" laws, these typically exempt positions requiring federal security clearances, transportation security positions, and roles subject to DOT/FAA regulations which includes most SkyWest operational positions.

Company Overview

SkyWest Airlines is the largest regional airline in North America, headquartered in St. George, Utah. Founded in 1972, the company has grown from a small regional carrier serving southern Utah and Nevada to a major aviation employer operating approximately 2,000 daily flights.

SkyWest operates through capacity purchase agreements with four major airlines: United Airlines (United Express), Delta Air Lines (Delta Connection), American Airlines (American Eagle), and Alaska Airlines (Alaska SkyWest). This unique partnership model means SkyWest pilots and crews operate flights marketed and sold by these major carriers.

Company Fast Facts

• Employees: 15,000+ aviation professionals

• Fleet: 500+ aircraft (Bombardier CRJ and Embraer ERJ regional jets)

• Destinations: 257 cities across North America

• Domiciles: 20 crew bases including Salt Lake City, Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta

• Headquarters: St. George, Utah (corporate offices)

• Passengers: Over 42 million annually

• Founded: 1972

• Industry Position: Largest independent regional airline in the United States

• SkyWest has not made public commitments to second-chance employment or fair chance hiring initiatives. The company's hiring decisions are primarily governed by federal TSA and FAA requirements rather than voluntary policies, and federal aviation security regulations take precedence over state fair chance laws for operational positions.

Hiring Policy Analysis

Official Policy

SkyWest Airlines requires comprehensive background checks for all positions, with federal TSA Security Threat Assessment and FBI criminal history checks mandatory for operational roles. The company states on its careers website: "It is essential to provide accurate and truthful information. Any falsification will lead to disqualification."

For operational positions, SkyWest explicitly warns applicants: "As per the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, if you are selected for employment, you will be required to complete an FBI fingerprinting packet. This process will reveal any criminal history, irrespective of expungement, sealing, or offenses committed as a minor."

Key Regulatory Constraints

TSA Security Clearances: Most operational roles require TSA Security Threat Assessment approval and SIDA badge access to secure airport areas, creating legal employment bars for specific criminal histories.

FAA Safety-Sensitive Designations: Pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, dispatchers, and ramp agents are classified as safety-sensitive employees requiring DOT/FAA drug and alcohol testing compliance.

FBI Fingerprint Checks: All aviation employees undergo FBI criminal history record checks with 10-year lookback periods revealing all arrests and convictions.

Canadian Security Clearances: Pilots must be eligible for Canadian security clearance to operate international flights to Canadian destinations.

PRIA Requirements: Pilots undergo Pilot Records Improvement Act background checks including previous employer verification and drug test history.

State Laws Preempted: Federal aviation security regulations preempt most state and local fair chance hiring laws for operational aviation positions.

Factors in Hiring Decisions

The TSA Security Threat Assessment and company evaluation will consider:

Disqualifying Offense Lists: Automatic permanent bars for TSA permanently disqualifying felonies; automatic temporary bars for interim disqualifiers within lookback periods.

Aviation Security Relevance: Offenses related to terrorism, weapons, explosives, aviation security, or transportation security face absolute scrutiny.

Financial Integrity: Theft, fraud, embezzlement, and financial crimes receive heightened scrutiny due to handling airline assets and passenger data.

Violence and Safety: Violent crimes, weapons offenses, and assault create major barriers due to passenger and crew safety concerns.

Drug Offenses: Drug trafficking creates permanent bars; drug possession may be considered for non-operational roles after significant time has passed.

Time Elapsed: While permanent disqualifiers have no time limit, older non-disqualifying offenses are viewed more favorably than recent convictions.

Honesty on Application: Complete disclosure is mandatory any falsification or omission results in permanent disqualification and potential federal charges.

Position-Specific Barriers

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data based on 2024-2025 salary reports from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and aviation industry sources. Aviation pay is typically hourly (for pilots/flight attendants) or annual salary (for corporate/management).

Career Path Examples

Corporate Track: Administrative Assistant ($35K–$50K) → HR Coordinator ($40K–$55K) → HR Manager ($65K–$85K) → Director of Human Resources ($95K–$120K)

IT Track: IT Support Specialist ($45K–$65K) → Systems Analyst ($65K–$85K) → IT Manager ($85K–$110K)

Operational Track (Clean Record): Ramp Agent ($24K–$30K) → Customer Service Agent ($23K–$29K) → Lead Agent ($35K–$45K) → Station Manager ($50K–$70K)

Flight Operations Track (Clean Record): First Officer ($86K–$102K) → Captain ($130K–$235K) → Chief Pilot ($150K+) OR transition to major airline through guaranteed interview programs

Note: Operational career paths require TSA security clearances throughout. Employees who develop disqualifying criminal histories during employment face permanent removal from safety-sensitive functions under federal law.

Background Check Process

What They Check

FBI Criminal History Records Check: Fingerprint-based check revealing all arrests, charges, and convictions regardless of expungement, sealing, or age (including juvenile offenses that resulted in adult convictions)

TSA Security Threat Assessment (STA): Operational roles only; comparison of criminal history against TSA's permanent and interim disqualifying offenses lists

10-Year Employment History Verification: Contact with all employers over the past decade to verify dates, positions, performance, and reasons for separation

Drug and Alcohol Testing History: Previous DOT-regulated employers contacted to verify past drug test results, violations, and completion of return-to-duty processes

Driving Records: Motor vehicle history checks for positions involving ground transportation or equipment operation

Education Verification: Confirmation of high school diploma, GED, college degrees, and aviation certifications claimed on application

Credit History: May be reviewed for positions handling cash, financial transactions, or requiring high-level security clearances

Professional Licenses and Certifications: Verification of pilot licenses (ATP, Commercial), A&P mechanic certificates, dispatcher certificates, medical certificates

Social Security Number Validation: Confirmation of identity and work authorization through E-Verify system

PRIA Checks (Pilots Only): Pilot Records Improvement Act requires previous aviation employers provide records of training, testing, checking, and drug/alcohol violations

Terrorist Watch List Screening: Comparison against federal databases including No Fly List and Selectee List for national security purposes

Lookback Period Summary

Timeline

The background check process for operational positions typically takes 4-8 weeks from conditional offer to final clearance: Application submitted online (immediate), application review by recruiting team (1-2 weeks), phone or video interview (if selected), in-person interview (1-2 weeks after phone screen), conditional job offer (same day to 1 week post-interview), FBI fingerprinting completed (within 48 hours of offer), TSA Security Threat Assessment processing (3-6 weeks), employment verification and PRIA checks concurrent (2-4 weeks), drug and alcohol testing (within 48 hours of offer), final clearance received (total 4-8 weeks from offer), training class date scheduled (1-6 months after clearance depending on operational needs). Corporate positions without TSA requirements may move faster (2-3 weeks total). Complications such as international addresses, incomplete employment history, or arrests without recorded dispositions can extend timelines significantly.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Permanent Disqualification:

• TSA permanently disqualifying felonies: espionage, treason, terrorism, aviation security violations, hazardous material crimes, murder, explosives

• False statements or fraudulent documents on security applications (federal offense)

• Active warrants or pending charges for felony offenses

• Refusal to complete fingerprinting or background check authorization

• Positive drug test during pre-employment screening

• Failed alcohol test (0.04 or higher BAC for safety-sensitive positions)

High Risk for Operational Role Disqualification:

• Recent (within 7 years) convictions for weapons, firearms trafficking, or unlawful possession

• Recent (within 7 years) convictions for theft, fraud, embezzlement, or financial crimes

• Recent (within 5-7 years) felony drug distribution or trafficking

• Recent violent felonies including assault, robbery, kidnapping

• Sexual offenses (typically permanent bar from customer-contact roles)

• Multiple DUI convictions or DUI with injury

• Pattern of criminal behavior showing ongoing risk

Lower Risk Convictions (May Qualify for Corporate Positions):

• Single non-violent drug possession conviction 10+ years old

• DUI/DWI conviction 7+ years old with completed treatment

• Minor theft or property damage misdemeanors 10+ years old

• Disorderly conduct or public intoxication misdemeanors 7+ years old

• Traffic violations (non-DUI) generally not disqualifying

• Non-violent misdemeanors with no pattern of repeat offenses

• Important Note: Even "lower risk" offenses may prevent clearance for operational positions requiring SIDA badges and TSA approval. Corporate and administrative roles offer the only realistic opportunities for most applicants with criminal records.

Your Rights

FCRA Protections: Employer must obtain written consent before background check; if denial is based on results, must provide copy of report and statement of rights before final decision.

Pre-Adverse Action Notice: If SkyWest intends to deny employment based on background results, must provide you with copy of background report and "Summary of Your Rights Under the FCRA" before making final decision.

Dispute Opportunity: You have right to dispute inaccurate information with the background check company and provide explanations or additional context.

TSA Appeal Rights: If denied SIDA badge due to criminal history, can request waiver through TSA Office of Appeals and Litigation, though success rates are very low for disqualifying offenses.

State Laws (Limited Application): Some states prohibit criminal history questions on initial applications for private employers, but these laws typically include specific exemptions for positions requiring federal security clearances or involving transportation security.

Application Strategy

Step-by-Step Process

1. Assess Your Realistic Eligibility: Before investing time, honestly review the TSA disqualifying offenses lists at www.tsa.gov/disqualifying-offenses-factors. If you have permanent disqualifiers, operational aviation roles are legally closed to you focus exclusively on corporate office positions. If you have interim disqualifiers, calculate whether you're outside the 7-year/5-year lookback periods.

   
   

2. Target Appropriate Positions: If your record includes TSA disqualifying offenses or you're within lookback periods, DO NOT apply for pilot, flight attendant, mechanic, ramp agent, or dispatcher positions. Target corporate roles: IT Support, HR Coordinator, Administrative Assistant, Finance Analyst, Marketing Specialist. These positions are based in corporate offices (primarily St. George, Utah headquarters) rather than airports and use standard employment background checks.

   
   

3. Apply Online at skywest.com/careers: Complete application thoroughly and honestly. For corporate positions, you may not be asked about criminal history until later in the process. For operational positions, you'll encounter warnings about FBI fingerprinting requirements upfront.

   
   

4. Prepare for Interview: If selected for interview, prepare to discuss your skills, aviation industry interest, and relevant experience. For corporate roles, criminal history discussion typically occurs post-offer. For operational roles, you may be asked about ability to pass federal background checks during interview.

   
   

5. Respond to Conditional Offer: If you receive conditional offer, you'll be required to authorize FBI fingerprinting and background checks. For operational roles, this triggers TSA Security Threat Assessment. Be prepared for 4-8 week wait for clearance results.

   
   

6. Complete Required Testing: Safety-sensitive positions require immediate drug and alcohol testing post-offer. You must pass these tests to proceed. Marijuana is federally prohibited for DOT employees even in states where recreational use is legal.

   
   

7. Understand Potential Outcomes: For operational roles, TSA denial is final and typically not subject to employer discretion SkyWest cannot hire you even if they want to. For corporate roles, company has more flexibility in individualized assessment.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Be Realistic About Operational Roles: If you have any TSA disqualifying offenses, don't waste time applying for pilot, flight attendant, or mechanic positions. The law prohibits your employment in these roles regardless of rehabilitation, time elapsed, or company preference.

   
   

2. Focus on Corporate Opportunities: Apply for positions at SkyWest's corporate headquarters in St. George, Utah, or remote corporate support roles. These positions don't require SIDA badges, TSA clearances, or airport access.

   
   

3. Obtain Your Own Records First: Request your FBI Identity History Summary ($18 through FBI website) before applying. This shows exactly what SkyWest will see. Also run standard background check on yourself through consumer reporting agency to identify any errors.

   
   

4. Gather Court Documentation: Obtain certified disposition paperwork for every arrest showing final outcomes, sentencing, and completion of requirements. You may need this if TSA questions arrests without recorded dispositions.

   
   

5. Calculate Lookback Periods Carefully: For interim disqualifying offenses, calculate exactly when you'll be eligible. If you're 6 years post-conviction, waiting one more year could make you eligible for operational roles.

   
   

6. Never Falsify: The application explicitly warns that FBI checks reveal everything regardless of expungement. Any omission or falsification is grounds for immediate disqualification and may constitute federal offense.

   
   

7. Consider Career Progression Strategy: If barred from operational roles now, gaining corporate experience at SkyWest or another airline builds aviation industry resume and may position you for future opportunities as time passes.

   
   

8. Consult Aviation Employment Attorneys: Specialized attorneys can review your history, advise on TSA waiver possibilities (though rare), and help navigate complex federal regulations.

   
   

9. Explore Alternative Aviation Careers: If passenger airline operations are closed, consider aviation careers not requiring SIDA badges: corporate aviation, flight schools, aircraft sales, aviation software companies, airport parking management.

   
   

10. Don't Give Up on Aviation: Even if SkyWest isn't possible, regional aviation sector includes many companies with varying requirements. Corporate aviation and private charter companies sometimes have different security requirements than Part 121 carriers.

Benefits and Compensation

Base Pay Ranges: $24K–$235K depending on position, seniority, and type (pilot pay based on flight hours; corporate pay based on annual salary)

Minimum Guarantees: Pilots guaranteed 75 flight hours monthly; Flight Attendants guaranteed 76 hours monthly

Weekly/Bi-Weekly Pay: Most employees paid bi-weekly on 7th and 22nd of each month

Per Diem Pay: Flight crews receive per diem pay for time away from base ($2-$3/hour typical)

Profit Sharing: Quarterly Performance Rewards program based on company operational and financial success

Benefits Package

Health Insurance: Multiple medical plan options including PPO and consumer-driven health plans with HSA; dental and vision insurance available; coverage extends to eligible family members

Retirement Benefits: 401(k) with company matching contributions (match percentages vary by employee group); vesting schedule applies

Life Insurance: Company-provided life insurance at no cost to eligible employees

Disability Coverage: Short-term and long-term disability insurance options available

Travel Benefits: Unlimited space-available travel on SkyWest flights and all partner airlines (United, Delta, American, Alaska); travel privileges extend to eligible family members and eligible registered guests; substantially reduced fares on other carriers; considered industry-leading travel benefits

Training Provided: Pilots receive paid ATP certification training, type rating training for CRJ or ERJ aircraft; Flight Attendants receive 35 days paid training in Salt Lake City with hotel provided; Mechanics receive specialized training

Career Development: Pilots eligible for guaranteed interviews with Delta Airlines and Alaska Airlines after 24 months as captain; United Pilot Program offers conditional job offers to SkyWest pilots; pathway programs for student pilots

Bonuses: $7,500 bonus for experienced pilots with CRJ or ERJ type ratings; sign-on bonuses for critical positions during high-demand periods

Employee Perspectives

Pros: Industry-leading travel benefits on four major airlines extending to family; competitive regional airline pilot pay with rapid upgrade times; guaranteed interview programs with major airlines for career progression; comprehensive training programs; 20 domicile locations providing geographic flexibility; stable company with consistent operations

Cons: Starting pay for non-pilot operational positions (ramp agents, customer service) is low; new hire pilots and flight attendants typically start on reserve schedules with limited control; corporate culture varies between headquarters and operational bases; commuting to domiciles can be challenging; high barriers for anyone with criminal records due to federal security requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does SkyWest Airlines hire people with felonies?

   SkyWest Airlines may hire individuals with certain felony convictions on a case-by-case basis for corporate and administrative positions that do not require TSA security clearances. However, individuals with TSA permanently disqualifying felonies including espionage, terrorism, aviation security crimes, hazardous material violations, murder, or certain drug trafficking offenses are legally barred by federal law from operational roles requiring SIDA badge access. This includes pilot, flight attendant, mechanic, ramp agent, and dispatcher positions. Even for non-permanently disqualifying felonies, individuals must be outside TSA's lookback periods (7 years from conviction or 5 years from prison release for interim disqualifiers). Corporate office positions such as IT support, human resources, finance, and administrative roles offer the most realistic opportunities since they don't require federal aviation security clearances.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at SkyWest Airlines?

   The background check process is extensive and federally mandated for operational positions. It includes FBI fingerprint-based criminal history checks that reveal all arrests and convictions regardless of whether they were expunged, sealed, or occurred as a juvenile. Operational roles require TSA Security Threat Assessment, which compares your criminal history against federal lists of disqualifying offenses. SkyWest also conducts 10-year employment history verification contacting all previous employers, drug and alcohol testing history verification from prior DOT-regulated employers, driving record checks, education and certification verification, and Social Security number validation. Pilots additionally undergo PRIA background checks including previous employer records of training, testing, and any violations. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks for operational positions requiring TSA clearances. Corporate positions without security requirements move faster (2-3 weeks) and undergo standard employment background checks rather than federal aviation security screening.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go at SkyWest Airlines—what is the lookback period?

   The lookback period depends on the position and type of offense. For operational positions, the FBI criminal history check reviews the past 10 years as required by TSA regulations. However, TSA permanently disqualifying offenses have no time limit convictions at any point in your life create lifetime bars for SIDA badge eligibility. These permanent disqualifiers include espionage, terrorism, aviation security crimes, murder, and hazardous materials violations. TSA interim disqualifying offenses use a 7-year lookback from conviction date or 5-year lookback from prison release, whichever is later. This includes weapons offenses, theft, fraud, drug distribution, arson, kidnapping, and robbery. Corporate positions without TSA requirements may follow standard FCRA guidelines, which limit reporting to 7 years for some convictions depending on state law and salary level. However, be aware that convictions can be reported indefinitely for positions paying over approximately $75,000 annually.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at SkyWest Airlines?

   The most severe barriers come from TSA permanently disqualifying felonies which create lifetime bars from operational aviation roles: espionage, treason, terrorism, aviation security violations (interference with flight crew, weapons on aircraft), improper transportation of hazardous materials, murder, and certain drug trafficking offenses. Even outside the permanent list, recent convictions (within 5-7 years) create high barriers: violent crimes and weapons charges due to passenger and crew safety concerns; theft, fraud, and financial crimes due to handling airline assets and sensitive data; drug distribution due to federal aviation safety requirements. Sexual offenses typically create permanent barriers from customer-contact roles. Any dishonesty or falsification on security applications is grounds for immediate and permanent disqualification this is a federal offense and will bar you from all aviation employment. Older non-violent drug possession convictions (10+ years) present fewer obstacles for corporate positions but still bar operational roles during TSA lookback periods.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at SkyWest Airlines for applicants with a record?

   The most accessible positions for applicants with criminal records are corporate and office-based roles that do not require TSA security clearances: Administrative Assistant, IT Support Specialist, HR Coordinator, Finance/Accounting Clerk, Call Center/Reservations Agent (if remote), and Marketing Support positions. These roles are typically based at SkyWest's corporate headquarters in St. George, Utah, or are remote positions, and they require only standard employment background checks rather than federal aviation security screening. Administrative Assistant positions ($35K-$50K) offer entry-level corporate opportunities with potential for advancement. Call Center agents ($30K-$40K) provide customer service by phone and may have remote options with limited security requirements. Avoid applying for operational positions pilot, flight attendant, mechanic, ramp agent, customer service agent (airport-based), or dispatcher if you have any TSA disqualifying offenses or are within TSA lookback periods. These operational roles are legally restricted by federal regulations regardless of qualifications or rehabilitation.

   
   

6. Does SkyWest Airlines drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, mandatory drug testing is required by DOT/FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 120 and 49 CFR Part 40) for all safety-sensitive positions including pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, ramp agents, dispatchers, and any employee performing aircraft maintenance or operations. SkyWest conducts pre-employment urine drug testing screening for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), and amphetamines as specified in federal regulations. Testing occurs within 24-48 hours of conditional job offer for operational positions and must be completed before starting safety-sensitive duties. All safety-sensitive employees are subject to ongoing random testing (50% annual rate for drugs, 10% for alcohol), post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, and return-to-duty testing after any violations. Refusal to test is treated identically to a positive result under federal regulations. Failed tests result in immediate removal from safety-sensitive functions and permanent preclusion from performing the same safety-sensitive function for any FAA-regulated employer. Important: Marijuana use is federally prohibited for DOT employees even in states where recreational use is legal. CBD product use is not an acceptable excuse for positive marijuana tests you are responsible for what enters your system.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will SkyWest Airlines ask about criminal history?

   The timing varies by position type. For operational positions requiring TSA clearances, SkyWest's application and website explicitly warn upfront about FBI fingerprinting requirements and criminal history disclosure. The website states: "This process will reveal any criminal history, irrespective of expungement, sealing, or offenses committed as a minor. Please ensure that you disclose any necessary information in detail in the appropriate section of the application." While some state "ban-the-box" laws delay criminal history inquiries for private employers, these laws typically include exemptions for positions requiring federal security clearances or involving transportation security—which covers operational aviation positions. Corporate positions may not ask about criminal history until after initial interview or conditional offer, depending on state law. Regardless of when questions are asked, the formal FBI fingerprinting and TSA Security Threat Assessment only occur after a conditional job offer is extended. Final employment is contingent upon successful completion of all federal background checks, security clearances, and drug testing. The entire process from offer to clearance takes 4-8 weeks for operational roles.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at SkyWest Airlines if they have a felony?

   Advancement possibilities depend entirely on the type of conviction and the management role sought. Corporate management positions (Director of HR, IT Manager, Finance Director, Marketing Manager) that do not require TSA security clearances may be accessible for individuals with non-disqualifying convictions who demonstrate exceptional performance in entry-level corporate roles over time. However, operational management roles overseeing safety-sensitive functions such as Chief Pilot, Director of Maintenance, Operations Supervisor, or Station Manager typically require the same TSA security clearances as the frontline positions they supervise. Individuals with TSA permanently disqualifying offenses face lifetime bars from these operational management positions regardless of time elapsed or rehabilitation. If you start in a corporate role, advancement within corporate functions (HR to Senior HR Manager, for example) is more feasible than transitioning into operational management. Federal regulations create hard legal barriers that companies cannot waive even for outstanding performers with extensive rehabilitation.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at SkyWest Airlines?

   The timeline varies significantly by position type. For operational roles requiring TSA security clearances, expect 6-12 weeks from application to training start: online application submission (immediate), application review by recruiting team (1-2 weeks for response), phone or video interview if selected (scheduled within 1-2 weeks), in-person interview (may occur 1-2 weeks after phone screen), conditional job offer (same day to 1 week post-interview), FBI fingerprinting and drug testing (completed within 48 hours of offer), TSA Security Threat Assessment processing (3-6 weeks—the major bottleneck), concurrent employment verification and PRIA checks (2-4 weeks), final clearance received (total 4-8 weeks from offer to clearance), and training class date scheduled based on operational needs (can be 1-6 months after clearance). Corporate positions without TSA requirements move much faster: 2-4 weeks from application to start date total. Complications such as incomplete employment records, addresses outside the US, arrests without recorded dispositions, or database delays can extend operational timelines to 12+ weeks. The TSA clearance wait is beyond SkyWest's control and varies by processing volume.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at SkyWest Airlines?

    First and most importantly, be completely honest on your application about criminal history—FBI checks reveal everything regardless of expungement, and falsification guarantees disqualification plus potential federal charges. Second, realistically assess your eligibility by reviewing TSA disqualifying offenses lists at www.tsa.gov/disqualifying-offenses-factors before applying; don't waste time on operational roles if you have permanent disqualifiers. Third, target appropriate positions: if you have disqualifying offenses or are within TSA lookback periods, focus exclusively on corporate office roles (IT Support, HR, Administrative Assistant, Finance) rather than operational positions. Fourth, obtain your FBI criminal history record ($18 at fbi.gov) and standard background check before applying so you know exactly what employers will see and can correct any errors. Fifth, gather certified court documentation showing disposition, sentencing, and completion for all criminal matters—you may need this if TSA questions arrests without dispositions. Sixth, if you're just outside TSA lookback periods (6.5 years from conviction), consider waiting to apply until you're fully outside the 7-year window. Seventh, build aviation-related skills and experience through non-security positions first, which strengthens future applications. Finally, consult with aviation employment attorneys if you believe TSA denials are based on errors or if you want to explore waiver possibilities (though success rates are very low).

Alternative Employers

If SkyWest Airlines isn't the right fit due to federal aviation security requirements, consider these alternative employers in aviation and transportation:

Conclusion

SkyWest Airlines presents significant challenges for job seekers with criminal records due to strict federal TSA and DOT regulations governing operational aviation positions. However, genuine opportunities exist for qualified individuals who target appropriate corporate and administrative roles that don't require federal security clearances. Key Success Factors: Realistically assess your eligibility against TSA disqualifying offenses lists before applying. Focus on corporate office positions (IT Support, HR, Administrative roles) rather than operational positions if you have any disqualifying convictions or are within TSA lookback periods. Be completely honest on all applications FBI fingerprint checks reveal everything and falsification is a federal offense. Obtain your own records before applying to know exactly what employers will see. SkyWest Airlines TSA permanently disqualifying felonies create lifetime bars from operational aviation employment regardless of time elapsed or rehabilitation. Recent violent crimes, theft, fraud, and weapons offenses create barriers during 7-year/5-year lookback periods. Any dishonesty on security applications results in permanent industry-wide disqualification. Federal regulations override state fair chance laws for aviation security positions, meaning SkyWest has limited discretion in hiring decisions for operational roles. However, corporate positions at headquarters in St. George, Utah, or remote corporate support roles offer pathways into the aviation industry without TSA security requirements. For those with clean records or older non-disqualifying convictions, SkyWest offers excellent benefits including industry-leading travel privileges, comprehensive training, competitive pay, and clear career advancement paths. For others, the airline's corporate functions provide legitimate entry points to aviation careers outside operational security restrictions.

Apply at skywest.com/careers

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about SkyWest Airlines' hiring practices and federal aviation security requirements for applicants with criminal records. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of employment eligibility. TSA, DOT, and FAA regulations are complex and subject to change. Individual hiring decisions depend on many factors including specific conviction details, time elapsed, position requirements, and current TSA policy interpretations. Information is based on publicly available sources, federal regulations, employee reports, and general aviation industry practices rather than official SkyWest policy statements. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with SkyWest Airlines. The FBI fingerprinting process may reveal information about your criminal history that you were unaware of or believed was sealed or expunged. FelonFriendlyJobsNow.com and its affiliates make no warranties about employment outcomes and are not responsible for application decisions or their results. Always consult qualified employment attorneys or criminal defense attorneys for personalized legal guidance.