Airline Pilot Forums

Hi all,

Just wondering what my prospects are as far as getting back into flying as a career within the next couple of years. Long story short, I've flown for a living two different times but due to extenuating circumstances left the industry in short order both times. With things in my life finally sorted out, I'd give just about anything to come back and stay for good.

To expand on this a bit:

First, back in the early 2000's I flew the EMB-145 for TransStates, furloughed after 9/11, recalled and then left the industry at the end of 2003 due to fiscal reasons.

Secondly, I came back in late 2007 and got a gig with RAH flying the 170/175 but due to the stress of a terrible marital fallout and divorce (as well my lack of ability to support myself on FO pay with the debts I had to pay off) I had to leave once again and go back to IT.

I'm in my mid-30s now and am wondering what my chances are of getting back into the airline industry at least at the regional level. Considering age 65 retirement I can still have a fulfilling 25+ year career (not counting my previous attempts) and starting pay wouldn't be an issue since my debts will be paid off soon and I've nobody to support but myself.

I've never had a busted checkride or any black marks against me, never any training problems, and when I was hired at RAH in 2007 the only flight time I had since TransStates was the few hours of recent time I took in a Cessna 172 Heavy to get current right before the interview. My time as of now is over 1800 TT and over 900 ME with 800 being in jets.

Is there still hope for me or am I just an old dog who's past his day?

Thanks guys!

I'd say you're fine. Get current and apply. You'll probably be asked about why you left your previous companies, but you seem to have valid answers for what transpired. Good luck.

Thanks Diver, appreciate the input!

I know a 50 year old guy who just got hired with a regional at 800 total 100 multi and no type ratings or airline experience. He was a business manager and had the flight time and decided to change careers. He worked as a CFI for about six months to get some recent flying experience and was hired quick by the regionals.

I'd say your chances are really good at getting back into it. You're still young enough and on top of that you have 121 experience. A lot of companies will like that. You'd probably get the job over me easy.

the few hours of recent time I took in a Cessna 172 Heavy to get current right before the interview.

A Cessna 172 Heavy? I've gotta get me one of those!

Come up with a good cover letter. Otherwise they might suspect you got "invited" to leave by two different regionals.

I think you'll be fine once you explain the circumstances, but you you need to make sure you don't get screened out before the interview.