Lobaeux

Right now, I'd just be pleased with an automated email saying they received my resume/PAQ.

I really have no idea if I've actually applied to Atlas or not.

Good thing they'll be at the WAI conference so I can hand them my resume and printed PAQ.

STR8NLVL

So what's your background and times?

WARich

I agree...it would be nice to know that your app actually was received.....

Rhino12

From the company on a recent telecon - paraphrased but you'll catch the drift...

Internal recs are HUGE. If you have an internal rec your application bypasses (a/some?) wickets and for lack of better term "is viewed faster." They certainly value internal recommendations.

However...if you have a rec it does not guarantee you anything. Was mentioned that although you may have recommended your best buddy you've known for years...there may be something the company turns up they don't like.

All this being said...and as others have mentioned...no rec guys have been interviewed/hired.

Break.

It is what it is. A lot of folks are scratching their heads trying for Atlas as well as other companies.

I've come across folks who have the absolute mins to be hired and others who have the 10K hour patches. Great people regardless of backgrounds. A plethora (El Guapo - what is a plethora?) of hours doesn't make you an ideal candidate. There is a matrix they are using that seems to be working.

I'm Ron Burgundy??

WARich

I thought from previous posts that the rec doesn't come into play until the interview.....is that not correct?

captainv

Honestly, it's a guess. Internal opinion seems to be split about 50/50. Either is gets you to the top of the pile early, or it only comes into play once you're selected for the MIA interview.

A good friend had two internals and was employed flying a 747-400 and, for whatever reason, it took 1.5 years from PAQ submission to phone interview. Upon completing his interview, however, he was offered a class almost immediately.

Compare that to the guy that applied 1/17 and was called within two weeks.

We're still trying to break the code. So far it's still a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma.

Rhino12

My info via VP of flight ops as of last week.

JonnyKnoxville

My feeling is that JC made that statement because there has been a lot of scrutiny among the pilot group that HR does not take our recs into account. The company has sent out a memo as well addressing our frustration with the lack of hiring results. As for myself, my recommendation to hire rate is very low.

EricJ320

Over 16 years flying for an ACMI carrier, roughly 5800TT, 4500 turbine (in B727, A320, B757, B767, and A330), 1500 TPIC (in B757/B767/A330). Most recently, left seat and sim instructor on the A330.

Chappy Sinclair

My recent interview experience reinforces this. Half our group was ACMI (many already typed on Atlas' iron) and the other half heavy mil, all with various accumulations of flight time, "'low" and "high". It appeared that most, if not all, had at least one internal rec. Being typed, already living the lifestyle, and having someone vouch for you may have gotten those folks the first calls. The IBT deal may have also expedited contact for some of those candidates. That may have just been the initial callout, but I wouldn't discount yourself or get frustrated if you don't meet the aforementioned profile. It's evident they pride themselves on their diverse crewforce and a passion for aviation is something they look for. Always been interested in getting that glider rating? Go do it! (and put it on your resume). This may or may not get you the call, but will be at least be a good talking point on any HR panel.

Also, just because an app window is open doesn't mean they're hiring like crazy. Look at the FedEx trickle that confounds the folks with their "sure-fire sponsors." Atlas on the other hand seems to be in a blitz as numerous interviews and class dates will be on the docket for the foreseeable future. And as others have said, many have been hired without recs in the past. This is just the beginning. With potentially hundreds to hire, they'll pick up all types. In other words, things are looking good for you, the reader!

In the end it's impossible to know what their hiring algorithm is, so don't lose faith. Has anyone had luck with greasing the skids at tradeshows (WAI, etc?). That would be a good stat to know, as well.

Continue building your resume as an aviator and reading this forum. We're at the crest of an exciting wave in professional piloting--best of luck to all you!