Get LCA experience now at a regional if you can.
Originally Posted by
Smooth at FL450
To answer your question, I'd say previous check airman experience will help your chances at future CKAM positions.
Now I must ask...why is this your ultimate goal? I flew with a check airman awhile ago who was super cool and very chill, and I asked how he got to that position. He had been recommended into the CKAM position by people he'd flown with, it wasn't anything he actively pursued. To quote him, "it's the guys who seek out the check airman position who often times are the guys who shouldn't be check airman."
Just keep it in mind...if you're a natural leader/mentor/instructor and those around you feel the same way, then check airman positions type will come to you.
It must be different at SWA than where I work. We must take the initiative to apply, have a resume LORs, interview, etc.
As a LCA myself, I get what the guy you flew with was saying. I've flown with some at my current employer who desperately want to be LCA, but they're also known as someone most can't stand to work with. You know the type.
But I don't necessarily agree. Just because you want to do something you know you'll enjoy and that position gives you more "authority", doesn't automatically make you a "that guy".
I applied because I think I was good at flight instructing, I have years of experience on the my current aircraft, and I like to help people.
It's possible some may just enjoy the position, too. I know I love it. I'll miss it if I ever get a class... I like helping new hires, upgrades, and I feel like doing line checks helps keep me sharper because I'm seeing things from another viewpoint.
Just my 2cents