Originally Posted by
BobJenkins
And just so we're clear here, I wasn't trying to stir up anyone that resents helo pilots. I was actually trying to discover a reason behind SW's requirement to have 500 FW hours, when the FAA and most other regionals that I have looked at don't require the same thing. I am sure there must be a reason, and it is probably a good one, I was just curious, so asked.
Nothing I'm aware of for the reason for the higher minimums.
SkyWest, for the most part had higher mins than most of the others and maybe they didn't revise this part when the mins were lowered.
As others mentioned, helo guys tend to have somewhat better stick and rudder skills and little less on instrument skills, not always but typically.
Almost always far better than the 1000 hr CFI's we get.
Most of the higher time helo guys are former military, that are ready to work, try hard, not always but typically.
I'm not former military, but I've usually had good experiences flying with former military. My sincere thanks to those in service.
Honestly, I'd throw in an app and see where it goes. Show up with a good attitude and tell them you're working on the hours and you may get the nod.