Depending on the type of owner,it's a leverage game...
Like someone said, airlines are hiring.. I wouldn't say it as an altimatum though..
I'd go in and ask, state your case.. If they say no, get some airline interviews. When you get a hired letter from the airline, go back in and ask again, this time with an altimatum.
Having something to fall back on makes all the difference in the world when negotiating job terms.