That's all great info from the guys doing the job now. From the vantage point of someone who is in a similar position as you, I would just offer one big thing. Patience. Hopefully you will apply and immediately get an offer from your airline of choosing. If not, don't get too caught up in the timing issues or waiting for the exact airline you want to work for. Example: One of my best friends who is in my squadron I currently fly with had identical resumes(yes we compared them, no black marks, busts, etc). Experience, references, and time were the same and he was offered an interview by Delta and I wasn't (Yes, he got hired; great dude). Who knows why I didn't get an interview. Luck I guess. Just try not to get too wrapped up in the little stuff. This has and still remains to be an extremely competitive time to get hired at any major airline. Stay positive, don't take things personally, and hammer away at it. Things will eventually work out. Best of luck.