Just wondering if anyone on here has been hired or knows of anyone that has been hired at any legacy with a 121 CA Upgrade failure. No accidents/incidents. 1 other failure which was an oral at a part 135 operator.

I'm trying to assess if I'm completely screwed and what my plan of attack should be if I want to ever get out of the regional system to move on to American (or any legacy that would accept me). Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.

 

Yes. Did you fail multiple times or pass on the second attempt? Be able to explain what happened, what you learned, why you're better for it today. Don't play any blame games and own it.

 

Put in your application. It’s free. You won’t know until you try. Everyone’s circumstances are different and you might get a call.

 

Hire a prep service when you get an interview. If you're otherwise qualified, show interest, and constantly update your app, you'll likely get a call soon enough. Job fairs are a good way to get looked at. I've had a few friends that had failures get called. It's not the end of the world and certainly doesn't guarantee you won't get hired.

As previously mentioned, disclose it, own it, and be able to thoroughly explain what happened and why you're better for it. I'd recommend a prep service prior to any major interview (had friends use this and succeed / was helpful).

Biggest thing now is distancing yourself from those events and demonstrating how you've bettered yourself -for instance getting into the training program, involved in standards, teaching, etc. You'll want something additional to help stand out. Maybe even help with recruiting or do interviews. Regardless, it's a good time in the industry for anyone motivated to get to a legacy or major operation. These are just some helpful ways to overcome your small hiccup. Don't sweat it, you'll make it there eventually with enough effort and dedication. Feel free to PM me if you have any other questions (not that I'm an expert by any means, but have done my share of research and consulting with friends). Good luck!

 

Like everyone else has said, just own it. A good friend of mine failed an upgrade ride at his regional the week prior to his UA interview. He showed up and explained what happened and went into detail about what he learned from the experience. Currently a 777 FO at United. Be humble, own it, and don’t get overly frustrated. Happens to most/all of us.

 

Thanks for the feedback, everyone. Good to know.

 

Heck no, you're not screwed. Here's what you say when they bring it up: "I'm glad you asked about that!" "You're glad?" "Yes, I think sometimes things look worse on paper than they are. I've had XX part 121 training events without incident, since then."

You will not be AT the interview if it's disqualifying. Remember, at that point, they're looking to see what kind of PERSON you appear to be, not looking so hard at your technical skills. Be confident (you earned that interview), obviously forthright, cheerful but professional, and they'll be fine with it.

Also, 100% second the recommendations to do interview prep. I did Emerald Coast, and they were excellent. Just having them tell you you're nailing the mock interviews is pretty much worth the price in confidence.

 

That is spot on. We have looked at your qualifications. We want to hire you. We need to hire you. Make sure you can answer the questions and not come across as a jerk.

 

I have a 121 failure and have gotten calls to interview from 4 majors, including 1 legacy. It happens, don’t let it become a habit and don’t make an excuse for it during the interview. I think time elapsed from the failure and getting some face time in with recruiters greatly helps.