Originally Posted by
Czech Airman
While not a posted requirement, it seems that from the feedback from the major airline recruiters, volunteer time is now an untold "requirement" in order for you to get the call for an interview.
Since when does wether one is or is not a volunteer have anything to do with being a safe/competent pilot and a good employee? I'm don't want to try and save the world. I just want to go to work, do my job in a safe and efficient manner and go home and not be bothered until it's time to go to work again. Why should I have to volunteer for organizations that I wouldn't volunteer for unless it would help me look good to a major?
All the recruiters at NGPA said that since there's so many qualified pilots applying, they need SOMETHING to differentiate between them. College degree, GPA, chief pilot/check airmen positions, volunteer experience, etc. They know all the applicants can fly an airplane, but what what separates you from the 10,000 others who want the same position?
Don't think of it as trying to check another box (although maybe that's why you'll initially sign up for it) but rather a way to enrich your life by giving back to those less fortunate. You just might surprise yourself!