Jobs, timing, location

[CalifDan]

I am making a career change and my pilot experience looks like this:

1330 TT, 1250 PIC, 550 MEL, 48 Actual, 78 Simulated (In flight).

I am Commercial, MEI, IA, and currently studying for the ATP written (next few weeks).

I am employed in an unrelated field at this point. I have made applications at Empire Airlines, American Eagle, Ameriflight, and a few other odds and ends. I interviewed at Ameriflight and I think I could go there if I wanted to.

I am curious how long it usually takes to hear back once an application is submitted?

How many demerites am I getting for being non-aviation employed and having all my flight hours for pleasure? How big an issue is age (56)?

Where should I be applying with my flight time? I don't have a problem with freight, but I am more interested in the ATR type carrier with that option.

How important is having someone walk in your resume, and how do you find (meet) these people?

I own a Duchess which I have logged most of my multi time in and fly it regularly.

Any help is appreciated.

CalifDan

[Ian J]

Originally Posted by CalifDan

How important is having someone walk in your resume, and how do you find (meet) these people?

For some jobs it is important - some not so much. Usually, the more attractive a position is, the more likely they will have more qualified candidates, and the need for a weeding out process.

As to where to meet them, JC is a good place. It just takes time though. Participate, attend a meet and greet or a network JC, and just get to know people. I really never intended to make "networking contacts" when I joined, but over time I've made some friends and those friends happen to have flying jobs.

I have no firsthand experience with the airlines, but I've heard age isn't an issue. I also don't think a walk-in is necessary at many regionals, although it might help in getting a call more quickly. You have more flight experience than most applicants, so hopefully they'll be calling you back soon. How is your recency of experience? If you haven't flown a lot in the last 30/60/90 days, that might be holding you back.

[CalifDan]

My last 30, 60, 90 days each have about 10-12 hours per month. The last 6 months is 100 hours and the last year is over 200 hours. All multi-time. Since I fly for personal transportation, I tend to fly a little less in the winter (not on vacation, weekend get-aways are less attractive, fewer flyin events). I don't let IFR conditions stop me, but I respect freezing levels as the Duchess is not known ice.

CalifDan

[SIUav8er]

With your times, i dont think you would have any trouble with getting hired by any regional. I think Sky West might have slowed down hiring, but you should definately apply there. If you want to be gauranteed to stay local, Ameriflight would be great place to start