Ladies & gentlemen,

I am a brand new member here and I fully appreciate that I am also an absolute novice in the US aviation field and as such, I run the severe risk of asking what may seem obvious questions to the "experten" of the forum. All I ask is "Please be gentle!".

I am 44 yrs old and have been flying since 1997, with 3.5 years prior service as a flight attendant. I have over 6,500hrs TT, all commercial ME. Of that, around 2,500hrs are as PiC (Turboprops). I have 1300hrs in that total that are Jet time (P2/P1 u/s on Emb-145). No incidents, accidents or investigations and have an unrestricted Class 1 medical. I currently fly for a large Regional carrier.

Additionally, I work as a reserve Police Officer, an officer (Major) in the UK Army Reserve teaching cadets and am active in my church community. I mention these aspects as I am led to believe that these community-based factors are considered relevant, especially with the legacy carriers/majors.

My family and I have considered relocating several times before but the timing has never been right with either job opportunities or schooling etc. We have family (wife's siblings) in MD & CT but no other direct ties so we would need full "Green card" processing.

So, that's the background. Assuming you are still awake, my questions are:

1. ATPL conversion requirements recently changed but I have struggled to clarify the differences. From what I have read, I would need to do a Part 121 Airman's Knowledge Test and a checkride to gain an FAA ATP, in addition to a First Class Medical. Is this correct?

2. Assuming my statement above IS correct, where would be a suitable place to go for such a conversion or are the many apps on offer worth looking at? I presume I need to attend in person at a validated test centre rather than "just" a flying school?

3. With my qualifications above, is there a realistic chance of getting hired or even looked at by the majors? If so, is the "App" process the best way/only way forward?

4. I have heard a plethora of stories about working for the Regionals. Are they as bad as some make out? I'm used to regional flying and in theory, the lifestyle may be more suitable than long haul.

5. With my experience, what are the chances of being hired by a Regional as a DEC? If so, how do the salaries stack up? I've found the online information vague and conflicting so would rather hear from those within the industry.

I apologise for so many questions. We really want see if our plan is even worth pursuing. We love the US and feel that the lifestyle, especially for our children would be something we would love to embrace.

Thank you in advance for any assistance you may be able to give even if it's a case of "Don't even think about it!".