Originally Posted by
Petie25
I am a retiring Air Force pilot and am currently instructing undergraduate RPA pilots. I have over 4000 hours mostly in the C-130, but also flew the Cessna 208 in Afghanistan as an air advisor. I have a CMEL rating and am going to get an ATP in the next 6 months.
Some questions I have are 1) Should I apply to the majors after being out of the cockpit for 4-5 years or should I focus on the regionals? 2) As long as I have a first class medical, do the airlines care if I have a medical waiver? Do I need to disclose that on my application? 3) I was arrested for a DWI 10 years ago, sleeping in a running vehicle with elevated BAC (STUPID), I did my Air Force mandated treatment. What is the best way to attack that? I want to be honest and upfront from the beginning.
Thanks in advance and Good luck, we’re all counting on you.
I would apply to ALL companies that are hiring. Make sure they have a current resume and update it every six months or so. Airlines routinely bring back guys from furlough or Mil Leave who have not flown in several years. I don't think your non-currency is a major problem at all. Also, it would not hurt to get some "back in the saddle" dual time in a small Cirrus SR-20 or similar Diamond aircraft to show prospective employers that you are serious about getting back in the cockpit. About 20-25 hours would be real nice, then get signed off and log some solo time in a glass cockpit like those. Even a glassed up C-172 would be great. Major airlines would be foolish to pass up a pilot with your qualifications just because you haven't flown in four years.
Good luck!!
- Octa