Originally Posted by
TunaUSMC
Need opinions… Retiring military. Want nothing more than to be a pilot with a major. Done flying at the end of Feb. If a major doesn't call, need to find a job to stay current…
Option 1: Regional (focus would be on flying a jet and quality of life).
Option 2: Contract pilot (overseas every few months to fly turboprops).
What would you do?
TT 2000 (all turbine / 750 fighter time)
PIC 1300
MEL 1800
Currency is important, but I think retired military pilots get a little flexibility WRT that. IOW I don't think not having 3 landings in 90 days will hurt your chances at a major. How long is too long to be out of currency? That's hard to say, but I'd guess you'd have the better part of a year at least before it became anything close to a deciding factor with a US legacy.
Regionals are a great way to stay current however, as well as to get used to 121 flying, etc. QOL varies, but in most cases its not that great. Getting time off for interviews and last minute class dates can be a challenge but it can be and is regularly done.
You have very good time and I'm sure an exceptional all around resume (not just flight time but leadership roles, etc) as well as a hard working "can do" attitude, so its a matter of time before the legacy of your choice snaps you up.