The reduction also includes leadership positions, Southwest said, adding it would eliminate 11 senior leadership roles - which represents 15% of the company's senior management committee.
"This decision is unprecedented in our 53-year history ... We are at a pivotal moment as we transform Southwest Airlines into a leaner, faster, and more agile organization,” said CEO Bob Jordan.
The layoffs, which the company expects to complete substantially by the end of the second quarter, are estimated to net $210 million in savings this year and full-year savings of $300 million in 2026.
The savings exclude an expected one-time charge in the first quarter of 2025 in the range of $60 million to $80 million, Southwest added.
The job cuts are part of Southwest's previously announced plan to shore up sagging profits and improve its balance sheet. The company in September announced a three-year business plan including partnerships, vacation packages and aircraft sale-leasebacks.
The Dallas-based carrier last week named industry veteran Tom Doxey as its new chief financial officer, replacing Tammy Romo, who announced plans to retire in January.
Southwest last month reported fourth-quarter profits that surpassed Wall Street estimates, on the back of improved airfares and strong holiday travel demand.
Southwest's shares have fallen about 10% so far this year, while peers Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) and United Airlines (UAL.O) have climbed more than 7%.
