Great conversation. After 2 interviews and 2 CJO at major carriers, and an invite to interview at one more major, I can say my Letters of Recommendation helped immensely. Tho, I had no internal LORs at the 2 airlines that I currently have CJO and I have 1 internal LOR at the carrier that I am about to interview with.

I have 5 quality LORs. Of these 5, I have extensive (250+ hours) flight experience with each of these pilots to include Combat, Imminent Danger, AND International. A couple were from superiors, a couple from peers, and one from a younger aviator that I mentored to take my place upon my departure.

When I solicited LORs, I explained the process to the recommenders and asked them to make a "generic" document. One that they can cut/paste from for online submissions. None of my LORs were addressed to specific carriers. I carried the "generic" LORs to all job fairs and interviews and made sure I handed them to somebody that would take them. I tried to make it easy on the guys writing LORs...I am the one looking for a job, they have jobs...I didn't want to be a burden to them to get me a job.

Both interview panels made mention of my LORs. They made specific comments about them being "meaty", heart felt, and not a collection of "likes" or jumpseat favors.

I can honestly say that I think a single spelling or mathematical error, or blank on your application can/will make all your DFC's, AM w/V, and flight time null and void. Gather good, "meaty" LORs, but dwell and stress making your application perfect. Good luck to all!!