Retired USN fighter guy here. Now flying for Delta.

I don't think the 737 type will hurt your chances of getting hired anywhere.

I think that's an urban myth.

I had a 737 rating (from HP) when I interviewed at both United and Delta. Both offered jobs. Both never asked about it.

I had a canned answer if I was asked about it. My answer would have been "As a fighter guy, I wanted to immerse myself in the crew concept and learn the techniques of flying large aircraft". Again, never asked about it. Your canned answer can vary, depending on your background.

I paid the big cash for the HP type rating and I really enjoyed their program. They make a painful evolution, really fun. They will FORCE you to pass their program and get an ATP.

As it turns out, I paid my big money for the rating and SWA stopped hiring the day after I got my rating (timing is everything). So I went somewhere else. And I'm really, really happy how things worked out for me.

The only warning I'll give you is be careful about the "cheap" ATP route. I didn't try it because I wasn't confident I could do everything required in just a few days.

I have a buddy who was looking to retire and fly for the majors. He tried the cheap ATP route and failed his check ride. He interviewed at a few places but was never offered a job. He's a good guy so I can only think it was the failed check ride, or his explanation of the failed ride, in his interview that tripped him up. (he decided to stay in and retire later).

Lastly, PAY for interview prep. I know it sounds lame. But DO IT. They will help you sift through all your good stories to find stories that are appropriate for the HR nerds who are on your interview board. Trust me, spend the $ 250....it's money well spent.

Good luck to you jal362!

Thanks for your service to our country and best of luck as you open a new chapter of your life.

Cheers!