Originally Posted by
Luv2Rotate
Going to Lakes doesnt promise a career with a major. Major's havent hired in great numbers for years. The guys that usually go to the top of the list are Military guys that already have heavy jet time with international experience or Corporate guys that flew GIV's or a Global Express.
Can you go to a major from GL sure, but the likely hood is actually pretty slim. Alot of the majors are trimming down and regionals such as RAH are getting alot of the Mainline routes. If you go to Lakes dont bank on a Major to follow. Build your time and take the next best offer whether it be corporate/airmed/or a better regional.
I took a job flying cargo in a BE99 then a 1900 and still haven't been picked up by any major. I am however VERY happy with what I do. I fly 2-3 days a week and paid very well granted I fly for a private owner.
Nowadays, I would say it's less of a safe bet to assume you'll end up at a major after a few years at Lakes; it's impossible to say, but it's not looking the best. The flight time and experience is still a good thing to have in your back pocket, though. No one knows the combination of events that will transpire that will lead to another major airline hiring stint. It will happen. When? No one knows. Historically, though, the chances of getting to a major after a few years at Lakes were really good. Since I've been with Lakes, both my IOE captains went to a major in 2007 (My IOE was split between 2 short trips with 2 different captains), my initial sim instructor went to a major, and most captains I flew with in 2007, who had the flight time, were either hired by a major or had an interview with a major. Needless to say, however, quite a few were furloughed, or had their class dates suspended, unfortunately. At least their numbers are in the hat...