Originally Posted by
iflyjets4food
Ok, since I'm new to this, I have to ask a few questions. I'm getting ready to start class at RAH, and I've been told that once I have my company ID, I can jumpseat in the back. I plan on doing this once while in training to get home for a family gathering. What steps do I have to take to get back to the gate area and ultimately on the flights that I need? What considerations do I need to think about? I've scoped out the flights that exist to get me where I need to go, and there are multiple options. I won't have a uniform yet, so I guess I won't be able to take my shaving cream or toothpaste.
Are you sure that you will be jumpseating and not non-revving? Assuming jumpseating....
If you are going on a company plane it should be easy, your badge will get you through security at any terminal where your company has gates. Then just show the gate agent your badge and tell him/her that you would like to jumpseat, and mention whether or not you are authorized the cockpit (sounds like not). They may have you fill out a small form, and then they will have you go see the captain before, during, or after pax boarding. Show the CA your badge, license, medical, and form and ask nicely for a ride. That's it.
If you are jumpseating on another airline, you will need your passport and may or may not need a security document to get through TSA. See the ticket counter for this, although on some airlines like SWA you can use an automated phone system to list yourself for the JS and then print a security document online. Also in order to JS offline (cockpit or cabin) you will probably need to be in the CASS computer system...has your employer loaded your data & photo yet? Easiest way to find out is to ask any gate agent from any airline to verify you in CASS. Other than this the procedure is the same as for your own airline.
Be careful returning to training...since class will probably resume on Monday you will be heading back Sunday...busiest travel day, all the flights are full, and the jumpseat goes by seniority. If more than one pilot wants it...you get one guess as to who will NOT be the most senior pilot standing around the gate at 9:30 PM on a Sunday....