Between Ned Ryerson’s “Bing!” and the endless stream of insurance ads, it’s easy to tune out. But during open enrollment, tuning in matters. In this Wings and Wealth briefing, Rob Eklund breaks down the new MetLife Group Variable Universal Life (GVUL) policy offered to Southwest pilots—what it is, how it works, and when (if ever) it might make sense. Learn to separate marketing from math, understand the true cost curve of GVUL, and see why “term plus invest-the-difference” may still be the smoother flight path.

The start of a new year means new contribution limits—and fresh opportunities to strengthen your financial flight plan. For Southwest pilots, knowing how to fill each “bucket” efficiently can make a major difference in long-term wealth building.

This brief breaks down the 2025 401(k) and catch-up limits, explains how the NEC and MBCBP interact, and explores whether it makes sense to “fill early” or dollar-cost average. The goal: help you make every paycheck work smarter.

We may not control market turbulence, but we can control preparation. Let’s bring discipline—and maybe a little excitement—back to saving.