Need advice

I recently finished my A&P license and am trying to decided what to do. In 2008 I was hired by a regional as an FO and passed the checkride, but lost the job shortly thereafter due to the economy. No recall rights. Unable to find work, I decided to go back to school and get the A&P (did it in one year). I hope to work as a pilot again once the hiring picks up. However I have not been able to do much flying since I lost my job. At the moment, all I could get into most likely is an entry level job due to my lack of currency. I've talked to several banner towing operators and they really liked the fact that I would be able to help with the maintenance in additional to the flying. I'd be able to get enough hours for the ATP by the end of the season this way.


I'm also considering applying to several regional airlines as an A&P. I think I would enjoy doing this and am anxious to get some practical experience . I certainly miss the travel benefits. I'm not sure if being a pilot would help or hinder me as far as the hiring dept. is concerned. Have A&P's at the regional's moved on the pilot side?


So trying to decide where to focus my efforts – entry level job and get the ATP ASAP. Or work as an A&P and rent a twin occasionally to get my currency back. Current flight times 1230TT, 125ME, 47 turbine. Older midlife career changer, single, can relocate easily. Well aware of the pros and cons of this career. Any advice would be appreciated.

Let me just start by saying, don't loose sight of your goal. If flying is what you want to do you can achieve it, period. Times are bad right now but the economy is turning, albeit slowly, but all furlows (regionals) have been recalled and things are looking up. Your biggest challenge will be getting your ATP which by the looks of ur tt shouldn't be too difficult. Think of it this way, you already have what amounts to tens of thousands of dollars in training under your belt. It would behoove you to stay focused even if you have to exploit your A&P in the mean time. Best of luck.

I dont know where itern mike gets his information but not all fourloughs have been recalled at the regional level. Expressjet still has people on the street.

I would say take the banner towing job. Its fun flying and you will enjoy it and get your ATP.

Most regionals are recalling anyway. Eagle is hiring. My point is that things are getting better overall. There is no excuse why you can't continue your aviation career. But really, to the OP, best of luck.

Don't work airline maintenance unless you REALLY want to work airline maintenance. It's all seniority based, so good luck getting off the graveyard shift before 20 years at the airline. I very much doubt slinging wrenches will do ANYTHING to help you get on a pilot slot. If you really want to do both, stick around GA.

Thanks for the replies. I've decided to focus my efforts on improving my qualifications as a pilot since that is ultimately what I want to do. It certainly is good to see the job market finally taking a turn for the better.

Just out of curiosity what regional doesn't give you recall rights?

I agree with this also. Back in the mid 90's NWA actually had an internal hiring program with regards to pilots. There were rampers, mechanics, flight att who interviewed for pilots slots. What I noticed was being a mechanic actually hurt their chances. Although I do know one mechanic that did make it but having a father who was a senior widebody captain didn't hurt either. I think the love/hate relationship that pilots and mechanics have for one another hurts you if you try to do both.

Not so true. In the Corporate world an A&P is very valuable. I have known many people who have gotten on as pilots with less pilo experience due to having an A&P. That is precisely why I am going back to school to get mine.

Like I said... if you want to do both, stick with GA (which would include corporate). Airlines, not so much.