Originally Posted by
Pilotage
I'm a retired AF pilot, 3500 hrs in 135s and T-1s. Been out of the cockpit for about 3 yrs. Am contemplating leaving the corporate world and returning to the cockpit. Im operating on the assumption at regionals are a must given my lack of currency. But I'll be honest, the pay and lifestyle (commuting) seem pretty rough. Looking to hear from anyone who has gone down this road.
Every airline is different with respect to "recency of flying" but most seem to want to see you currently flying professionally. SWA seems to be the most relaxed with asking for 2 years of flying in last 5.
Lots of folks on the board are in the same spot that you are in. Same situation as those leaving the military from staff tours (including me).
Financially plan on 12-18 months at a regional. Regional will give you the most "points" on your application. Getting 100+ hours of recent turbine time as a professional pilot will also count but doesn't check the 121 box.
Biggest hurdle seems to be digesting the QOL issues that are certain when you return to flying. You will take a pay cut for the first 2-3 years (assuming you get hired by a major after 1) and unless you live or plan to live where you will be based - you will have to commute which cuts into days off.
The majors stress that they aren't hiring good pilots - they are hiring good leaders that also happen to be well trained pilots. As you write your applications - start now - highlight leadership in the air and on the ground. Each airline application is worse than filling in an SF86.