MCFlyer

I've got just over 3 years left on my military commitment. Can anyone tell me where to find some good information on pilot hiring forecasts for 2013? I'm still very undecided on whether to get of the military or stay in, but I would like to be set up for success either way. I do not have any civilian ratings...only military. Also, if anyone wants to share their opinion on whether to get out or stay in I am all ears... My hours are primarily in the F/A-18.

KC10 FATboy

Three years is a VERY long time off, both in the civilian and military world. So many things could change for the better and worse. Any hiring forecasts are best guesses at this point.

Be prepared for either option once the time comes. You need to start working on your civilian ratings. Stay current with you personal/professional contacts. Don't put off contacting your sources for letters of recommendations. Start creating draft letters and supply your sources with your draft copy. They will appreciate this instead of having to come up with something on their own. Additionally, you can help control what is written about you.

I hope this helps ...

NuGuy

Heyas,

I'd 2nd what KC said. In 2012 we might be making $300/hr again, or all riding our bikes to the communal vegetable garden to barter for food.

Nu

captscott26

Keep an eye on what the FAA does with flight/duty regs. It is going to make a big difference in staffing levels at the airlines in the next few years.

Superpilot92

3 years out should be when the big time attrition begins. Assuming status quo the airlines will have to begin hiring on attrition only, let alone any "growth". We'll see

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NWA

HercAC

If you do decide to get out, strongly consider maintaining your military affiliation by getting a Guard or Reserve gig.

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"Keep your friends close...your enemies closer"

KC10 FATboy

I couldn't agree more. You're going to miss the military flying and flying with your buddies. Bonus, you keep Tricare and perhaps a retirement.

USMCFLYR

How are you doing on the hours? Are you close to the 1,500 for the ATP?
If so - shoot me a PM and I might have some info for you.

USMCFLYR

satchip

Dude, stay in and get your retirement. Smartest thing I ever did. Wish I could say it was be design. Sometimes God is smarter than you. (winking smiley face thingy).

As a retiree I pay $460 A YEAR for the entire family for health insurance. When you do your pay vs future earnings charts, (come on I know you are doing one) don't forget to factor that in. Most people pay that a month.

JetPiedmont

If you'll be making anything close to six figures consider staying in. Pilot pay/advancement is not likely to recover for decades, if ever. Very hostile labor/management relations and weak unions dominate the industry, along with very poor economic stewardship on Capitol Hill and Wall Street.

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If they can't see it coming, they sure won't know what to do when it gets here.