Has anybody been hired recently by a major airline without recent experience? I know some companies specifically state a requirement for recent experience (Sprit Airlines requires 50 hours in the last 12 months); I am interested if during this time of “pilot shortage” airlines are more lenient on the recent experience requirement.



My flight time is very competitive and includes check airman experience and international wide-body PIC time, but my last flying job was over six years ago. I am “current” with a recent IPC and BFR in a single engine airplane. Of course, I can just put out my applications and see what happens but I prefer to not wait an additional three-to-four months before it becomes clear that I need to get current (regionals, 135) before my phone rings. I am considering buying an A320 type (again Spirit Airlines, they prefer it) but this does not give recent experience, just simulator time.



Any input from people in the know or from anybody who did get hired without recent experience would be much appreciated.