Originally Posted by
C340
As a low-time CPL with an interview coming up for an SIC slot, I am not entirely upset that this boost in safety culture is a bad thing, even if the DO has an ego. For people who want to get in, build hours, and move on to regionals after a year or so, I don't think its too much of a hassle to put up with someone like that if it means things will be done in a safer manner. I am a very cautious pilot, but I know Alaska experience will do great things for my skills and resume, so I want to give it a shot. I'll have to deal with BS in any low time (and even high-time) job, and I am not going into this expecting everything to be perfect.
This is just my perspective, and maybe I just haven't had enough experience to see an ego as a huge red flag. Thoughts?
Absolutely its a great option for guys under 500 hours. But if you have the hours go to Grant or somewhere that gives you valuable PIC time and experience. Go fly skydivers or mapping etc. Get experience making your own decisions. That first 1000hrs makes a lasting impression on your style of flying, so if you can get used to making your own calls and not depending on someone in the other seat. Right seat van time is a last resort in my opinion. As far as safety it has nothing to do with Ravn management it is the FAA riding them to change things and a lot to do with younger pilots coming in and making smart PIC decisions and willing to walk away before accepting a flight they don't like. Now I came to Alaska to actually enjoy flying and the lifestyle and not to just build time for a regional and fly a straight line. If that's what you want its a decent way to do it. Hageland for the most part has smaller "bids" and you will build time slower than the other options but if you get the job go for it. Makes for a great story.