Originally Posted by NE_Pilot
I too want to fly cargo, and I was curious, what else do the airlines look at aside from hours and degree, would a double major look better, how about clubs and the like? Do they even look at that stuff, or do they not really care about that.
In aviation, as in most industries, knowing someone always helps. Doesn't mean your uncle has to the CEO, but just a current flight ops employee who can vouch for you. This applies at any level. With that being said...
CFI, Night Cargo, Commuter, and regional airlines look MOSTLY at your aviation qualifications. A 4 year degree is very helpful at the regional level, but being too qualified might not be good at the regional level. If you have an MD, JD, and MBA, you'll probably decide that regional is too much BS and too little pay compared to what you COULD be getting with all your degress and experience. They may not want to waste the $$ to train you when they suspect you'll quit in 6 months.
At the Major level, all the qualified applicants are more than qualified to fly the airplanes (look at their minimums!) so it comes down to largely human factors and things that set you apart from all the other applicacants. Do you knwo someone? that will likely get you an interview, but unless you uncle is the CEO or chief pilot, you still have to stand on your own merits at the interview. These are some of the things that could set you apart as an exemplary individual: Military rank and awards, advanced degrees, Instructor Pilot/Check airman experience, Olympic/Pro/College athlete, leadership of any sort (at the adult level), successes in other fields, amateur athletics, author, interesting/challenging hobbies, volunteer service, etc. Anything that shows you are a dynamic, interesting individual. Being a big union guy or big political activist might not be what they're looking for, however.