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Old 09-26-2013 | 07:38 AM
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Default Business Owner & Pilot

When applying for a pilot job, how does a company (mainly a major airline) view an individual who owns & operates their own business, if that business is in addition to their flying job? Say that business is aviation related.

Would it be viewed negatively, positively, or neutral and why?
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Old 09-26-2013 | 09:15 AM
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Originally Posted by SkylineAviation
When applying for a pilot job, how does a company (mainly a major airline) view an individual who owns & operates their own business, if that business is in addition to their flying job? Say that business is aviation related.

Would it be viewed negatively, positively, or neutral and why?
I think it depends on how you present yourself in an interview. Airlines are looking to hire full time line pilots, not entrepreneurs interested in dabbling in airline flying. I know of a guy who was rejected by my airline because he gave the interview panel the impression that he placed a higher priority on his business ventures than being an employee. I think, and rightfully so, that many potential employers might consider a side business a distraction, especially during phases of your career such as initial training that require your undivided attention. As long as you leave them with the impression that working for the airline is priority one for you, having your own business should not be a problem.
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Old 09-26-2013 | 09:36 AM
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I would not mention it during the interview.
Like the previous poster said "too much of a distraction".
I also would not mention that I would be commuting from day 1.
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Old 09-26-2013 | 10:00 AM
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That sounds like very sound advice Bluto, thank you. But as far as "not mentioning it", wouldn't it have to be on your application because it would be considered "employment." So on the application I've listed it, because in my mind, whether not I own the business shouldn't matter if it's considered employment. Viking, are you simply implying not to bring it up unless they ask, or leave it out altogether in the application and resume?

In my opinion (and I could be wrong, hence why I'm asking) part of the business could be perceived as a plus (and in my case, especially because it's exclusively aviation related). But I do understand that they are hiring full time employees, which I have no problem with.
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Old 09-26-2013 | 12:18 PM
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Without seeing your resume, I'd definitely draw as little attention to it as possible. They want to see full time pilot at the interview. After those 20 minutes, they truly don't care (and they really can't care since you're probably protected by the union and can bid reserve or whatever to focus on your business).
Perhaps instead of saying you own Bob's Aviation---say you work for Bob's Aviation, where you've learned great customer service, teamwork, and CRM in a challenging and dynamic environment and had great flying experiences as well. Then, when they to do your background check, have your wife pick up the phone and talk about what a swell employee you are and how you also volunteer for the company charity events.......
All true and pretty good story as well.
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Old 09-26-2013 | 12:46 PM
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Thanks for the input! Now I just need to get the chance in the interview...looking to get the opportunity.
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Old 09-26-2013 | 12:48 PM
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Absolutely do not do what Billy the Kid suggests. That`s a lie and it will be discovered when the airline to which you will be applying turns your records over to one of the several outfits that make their money by throughly investigating potential new pilot employees. Instead, make your wife, or someone else the legal owner and yourself as an employee of that company. Again, as others have suggested, make it known that you intend to become an employee of the airline first and foremost. They don`t want no stinking part time pilots!
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