Originally Posted by
FlyingPoke
1.) Knowing that I'm at a disadvantage in the interview, is there anything at all that could level the playing field slightly?
2.) Is getting hired at a decent regional out of the question, or should I automatically shoot for the lesser quality of the bunch?
3.) Should I plan on being stuck at a regional for my career, or is a major a realistic goal?
4.) I am not sure on the language, but I know the Canadians have a problem with DUI's... the key word there is also convicted, if I remember correctly. Is this something I should look into and possibly obtain before sending out applications?
5.) I'm in the process of obtaining my own fingerprinted FBI check, if no mention of a DUI shows up but an arrest does, could/should I try and get away with leaving those three letters out in an interview?
6.) Although I'm pretty sure I'm right, did I do the right thing in not telling the FAA?
1> If you decide to tell the story - you now have a great "I learned from that and improved my life story." Airline HR folks don't expect you to give up after a little adversity (even if self inflicted). They expect you to get up, brush yourself off and get back in the game.
2> Shoot for all the airlines you are interested in. Candidly, you should have no problem getting hired in today's market.
3> A major is a realistic goal, but probably only after some time has passed. Keep your record clean.
4> Has not been a problem for 121 airline employees that I've heard about.
5> This will not be an issue on a security / background check. It was not a felony
conviction.
6> Criminal Law and Federal Regulations do not match language, definition, or intent, leading to a lot of confusion. I would think this would be reportable because the FAA has a different standard. However, this question rises to the level where you don't want an opinion from some guy on a web board, or even a local non-aviation attorney. If you are an AOPA member, they have experience with this sort of question. Also, once you are at a 121 carrier, you could ask your local ALPA attorney.
In fact, ALPA legal and aeromedical are probably the two best sources to answer your question and they might talk to you as a courtesy. Look up ALPA's office in Herndon, VA on the internet and tell them you are planning to be an airline pilot. They might give you a $1,000 worth of legal advice for free.