My flight instructor tells me that I am a good stick and suggested that I consider building time as a bush pilot as opposed to taking the CFI route. However, my buddy that is now at the regionals tells me that the airlines like to see CFI experience on resumes because it shows that you have the ability to give instruction to less experienced team members. I can see where they are both coming from... on one hand you can gain some valuable mechanical skills as a bush pilot, and on the other hand you can gain some valuable cockpit management skills as a CFI.

Do the airlines actually prefer one type of hour-building experience over any other?

Also... I would appreciate any feedback about the validity of these two articles regarding career outlook for those interested in pursing the airline pilot profession!

2014 Outlook For Aviation Careers Brightens With Looming Pilot And Mechanic Shortages - Forbes

Pilot Outlook 2010-2029: A Shortage Looms | PlaneAndPilotMag.com