Question to those recently hired or interviewing for regional airlines

CTFlyer · March 23rd, 2007, 09:05

Wondering if anybody who has been interviewing recently has talked to or heard of any new hires that did not have a full time flying job at the time they were hired?

I am ready to leave the corporate world and pursue a professional flying career, but I'm asking the above question because I've gained my flying experience by flight instructing part time, while having a full time office job that is totally unrelated to flying. I'm taking a MEI class next month, and have the opportunity to fly the minimum 100 hours multi that is required to interview at most regionals (most likely won't be utilizing the MEI, but want the class to get multi current/proficient again, maybe land a MEI position at the school but not counting on that).

I've spent a lot of time discussing this with family members (1 retired Usairways, 1 current Swa, both pilots) and they are concerned that my part-time flying background will show little dedication to a flying career, and will cause a problem getting hired. As much as I respect experienced pilots' viewpoints, both of them are very far removed from the current regional airline hiring trends, so I was looking for more recent perspectives, and I've read a lot of "recently hired" posts on this website.

Thanks for any opinions on this...

GAPILOT · March 23rd, 2007, 09:40

I had a full time job, but I can't see why they wouldn't hire you for the way you've done it. For some people in some situations that's the best way to accomplish their goal. I say apply away and best of luck to you.

Andy

skydog · March 23rd, 2007, 09:50

The regionals are so desperate for pilots that I doubt you will have much trouble.

Baronman · March 23rd, 2007, 13:22

I agree..I think they are desparate for people. As long as you don't have any crazy accident history, DWI's etc and don't scare the interviewers, you have a good shot at getting hired. Applicants can be choosey at this point, pick a company where you want to work, don't just settle for some company that you don't think you'd enjoy working at.

Airdale · March 23rd, 2007, 23:45

The airlines need pilots, but they won't take just *anyone*. Well most of the Regionals anyway.

So you will be expected to perform just as well as someone who's flying everyday. Myself, I didn't have a current flying job when I got hired, but my recent flight time was sufficient and my current knowledge and performance was still right on par, so it was a non-issue.

If you're part time instructing, I don't see why that would be a problem. Just make sure you prepare very well and you'll be fine. I think you would get an interview if your flight times are close enough and your resume looks good.

Goodluck!!

mojo6911 · March 24th, 2007, 01:56

I think if you are multi/IFR current, and feel good in the airplane, it wouldn't be a problem.

JimmyDean · April 7th, 2007, 13:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by mojo6911

I think if you are multi/IFR current, it wouldn't be a problem.

In my new hire class, we have one FO who has been out of flying for two years. He was at ACA/FLYi until they went six feet under, and then flew cargo for a few months. Was IFR current, but that's all.

Heck, I'm not even multi current!

Any airline is going to drill new flows and procedures into your skull anyways, so some time off from flying might even help. Law of recency, or something.