Yes, SWA will be hiring @250 pilots this year and rumor of 600 next year. Don't hold your breathe for the 600 number but this year will be 250. Hiring is just for retirements and increased vacation accrual from a longevity standpoint.
It has been pointed out that upgrades will be long, @15 years, and that is true unfortunately. The flip side is that FO pay is good and the opportunity to make more is available. Last year, my 8th, I earned slightly over 150K with 17/18 days off and zero open time pick up. Add $14,500 401k + $15,000 profit sharing and it adds up.
Not thrilled with the long upgrade nor the direction the company has taken but the money is there should anyone consider making the move.
Just my 2 cents.
Cheers