Originally Posted by
rickair7777
The airlines don't care about plea bargains, if you got arrested for driving impaired in any way, shape, or form that's a big strike. You'll be able to get a regional job since it was a long time ago, but you'll need to be prepared to address that issue at any interview.
As for majors...odds are good that you could overcome this given the length of time involved, but it could delay your career progression or limit your major airline options. Hard to predict exactly how the future will play out, it depends on the availability of pilots when the time comes.
You might want to look into american airlines regionals with flow-through programs. I think if you meet all the requirements to get hired at their wholly-owned regionals, you'll eventually flow up to american mainline.
I appreciate the honesty and advice. You have both been very helpful. If only I could turn back time! The dui is definitely something I regret but it was a mistake and I wouldn't/haven't tried to hide it. It was a valuable lesson in my life, most certainly an expensive one too. I have my first private lesson either this Sunday or next with Gary Karttunen out of Carlsbad, New Mexico! Thanks again guys!