While I don’t need a safe space, I can attest this is difficult news to digest. As a person that has wanted to work at United since the days of my PPL, it seems as if I’ve been trying to hit a moving target with terrible aim. They said build turbine time and get PIC, so I did that (5000/1500). They said get a 4-year degree, so I went to school full time for three years on my days off and earned my bachelor. They said community service is a big plus on a resume, so I volunteered at the local food bank. They said letters of recommendation help, so I went out and got 12 from current and retired United pilots (including 3 LCA’s and a CP). They said you get points on your application for attending job fairs, so I went to three of them. They said recency of Part 121 experience is important, so I left corporate aviation and returned to 121 a few years ago. Thus far, crickets.

I did not come here in search of sympathy nor pity but rather to confirm the words of a previous poster that yes it does feel like “we’re taking it on the chin yet again.” I don’t hold any animosity towards the CFI’s that have been hired as I’d be the first through the door if in their shoes. However, I can only hope they realize their seat in said class most likely comes at a disadvantage and that every opportunity to quell said encumbrance is heeded.

I’ll be sure to let you know when the crickets stop chirping.