Criminal Record (thoughts)
 

Got myself into trouble 6 years ago with a wet and reckless. No previous criminal record and none sense. My driving record has been clean my whole life except a couple speeding tickets when I was 16.
Every time I fill out an application with the majors I cringe at the sight of questions related to this. I always put the truth down but wanted to know from the forum what the real chances are.
I have a good job right now flying around a X but have alway wanted to fly for the big boys.

Let me have it.

ALWAYS put it down and then let "the rest of the story" take care of itself.

We've all been there. Some have gotten caught. Some have not. Keep your head up and keep knocking on those doors.

There are some people on here that claim anyone with a wet reckless or dui will never make it to a major airline. I disagree. I personally know guys with skeletons in their closets that have gotten hired recently at United and USAir. Having some dirt in your background absolutely hurts your chances, but it is not impossible. If you are able to show a clean record since your infraction and are able to show how you have learned and grown from the experience, if you can make it past the computers and land an interview, the job is yours to lose.

Don't beat up on yourself. I'm not sure why your willing to open yourself to (soon to come) censure. Pilots are the worst group to ask for any kind of forgiveness/empathy. Some on here are going to suggest you forget aviation, get a paper hat and learn to (love :eek:) the fryer.
Clearly your not going to get brownie points for your past indiscretions, but being really, really humble about it you may win some sympathy. I just wouldn't expect it until the hiring wave (that may, just may, be starting :) ) is quite away along.
The bottom line, don't give up, put 150% effort into getting what you want and stay optimistic. And even if it doesn't happen, be happy about the opportunities you have. Remember there is more to life than your job.

I suspect you could improve your chances by showing community involvement/leadership, or an advanced degree, etc. as tangible evidence of growing from the mistake.

Even so, I can't imagine one with such a record having any expectation of an interview early in a hiring boom, when the bench is so deep.

I wouldn't give up. You know those Northwest pilots busted for drinking a while back.. mayby late 90s?... I heard the FO got hired at AA.
Never the less.. I agree with purple drank.

...someone beat me to it

FE.

Amazon.com: FLYING DRUNK: The True Story of a Northwest Airlines Flight, Three Drunk Pilots, and One Man's Fight for Redemption eBook: Joseph Balzer: Kindle Store


Gave him a ride to his crashpad once.

Better book:

Final Approach - Northwest Airlines Flight 650, Tragedy and Triumph: Lyle Prouse: 9781460951996: Amazon.com: Books