Now, I think this guy is absolutely smoking crack. I do think my friend can do it, and make it to FedEx, but I believe it's gonna take at least 12 years. He has just begun flight training and thinks he's going to be flying purple 777's pretty soon cuz his neighbor will get him on. My question's are:

How difficult is it to get on at FedEx? I've heard you have to have 3 people (who have flown with you at a 121 carrier/military) recommend you.

In this competitive market the more the better but ONE LOR from a current pilot is the minimum. I am former corporate pilot, never flew 121 or military so it is not a requirement

Second, if you do get an interview, what are your chances? 50%? 80%? Assuming you do fine and aren't a psycho.

If you get an interview at FedEx the job only yours to lose meaning your hired unless you give them a reason NOT to hire you, so the percentage is very high

Knowing what know about the industry it is REALLY hard for me to encourage any person to try to make a living as an airline pilot. The glory days, IMHO, are long gone. Pilots are treated as nothing more than a number on the corporate payroll (at best) and the benefits really don't outweigh the consequences of being gone so much from home.

Best of luck to you and your friend