FW IP/Fleet Helo Pilot
Like many people on here, I’m a transitioning military pilot looking to separate and get hired by the majors as this hiring spree begins to pick up steam. I’m approaching a fork in the road in how to build experience/time and become more competitive. Any advice would be welcome. Obviously, there is no single method for success in getting hired and this topic can be highly subjective, but I feel like I’m taking more of a WAG rather than at least an educated guess.
The question is really this: With little to no MEL experience, is a regional airline the quickest option for getting hired by the majors? How are other alternatives, such as corporate/cargo, seen by the LCCs/Majors?
Here’s my background:
2200 TT
1400 FW
1000 FW TPIC
800 Helicopter (400 PIC)
Navy Helicopter Pilot
VT IP (T-34C)
UND graduate (Comm/Inst/Multi)
ATP written complete
Out of cockpit for the last year
Intend to fly reserves (more likely T-6 than any ME aircraft, currently)
Need to live in either Texas or SOCAL for the next couple years, willing to commute (family needs)
I’ve talked with a few pilots in the 121 world, and while all of it has been great advice, I’ve noticed that some of it conflicts with others. Some have suggested joining the regionals to acquire valuable 121 experience, while others have suggested to stay away from it for the reason that it may prolong the time it takes to finally get hired by a major. An Alaska Pilot/Reservist told me that it may take 5 years or more at a regional to be competitive enough for hiring at a major, his reasoning being that it may take several thousands of hours of 121 ME time to become competitive, despite my military background. A United Pilot told me it would take far less time. The regional guys I talk to are naturally more speculative but optimistic. I have had not had the chance to talk to corporate or cargo pilots, but their opinions would be invaluable to hear, most obviously because of this topic.
I know the importance of networking that plays into this process and I appreciate any other advice people have. Thanks to any who reply, hopefully this helps other helicopter guys as well!