Cargo Canines

By Cargo & Charters Strategy & Business Services Managing Director Michelle Williams

Meet Agent Dollar. He and his handler Zach are one of many dog teams who support our Cargo Operations. Dollar and Zach are stationed in El Paso, Texas, and represent AMK9, a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) approved third-party canine (3PK9) handler certified to screen for explosives.

In 2018, the TSA approved the 3PK9 program, which enables airlines like Southwest to work with third-party canine handlers to screen our Cargo. The approved companies undergo stringent certification testing to ensure the canine and the handler can handle critical screening needs. We must screen all of the cargo transported by Southwest Airlines. The screening takes place through methods such as x-ray, explosive trace detection (ETD), physical search, and in this case, canine screening. Canine screening is a preferred method with high-volume shipments, as canines can screen palletized and stacks of cargo without breaking it down into individual boxes to be passed through an x-ray or ETD.

Dogs such as Dollar, a Belgian Malinois, begin training at 6-12 weeks of age. During the training, they receive a detection scents imprint such as explosives, narcotics, or food. At 12 months, the dog is typically ready to be paired with a handler and continue training for another 8-10 weeks of training. The dog and the handler complete a certification test during the training program.

Of the dogs that enter the program, only 20% graduate. Once they graduate, they may begin screening for companies such as Southwest Airlines. Dogs who don’t graduate receive placements in other service roles, or they’re adopted.

While at work, the dog teams are exceptionally focused, especially while screening. They’re rewarded, typically with a favorite toy, once they complete the screening process. Dollar works hard for time with his Kong toy. Dog teams usually work a standard 40-hour week and spend time screening, preparing to screen, and completing recurrent training. When off duty, the dogs act like “ordinary” pets—some want to play, and others want to lounge. In Dollar’s case, he’s a high-energy dog and enjoys exercise sessions.

Our Cargo canine agents are critical to our Team and committed to Safety. We’re grateful for partnerships with companies such as AMK9 as we seek to improve the Safety and efficiency of our operation.