This is not a "what airline should I choose" type of question. Currently 135, with 3100TT, PIC typed. I've had my stuff in at AA now for over 4 months and have not received a TBNT letter. I have been offered a transition within my company to another type. However, this would extend my contract a full year (starting in June) for the PIC type. But, if AA were to call, I would have to jump ship and go. I'm not the person to burn a bridge. My question: does anybody know a rough percentage of people getting an interview that are off-the-street, 135, no internal recs? Just looking for some insight to make an informed decision. Thanks!

 

I guess I should add, the whole reason this is even an issue is I'm happy to stay where in at and continue to transition and upgrade if AA is not an option.

 

I cant speak for AA, but did you put a date on your application as to when you can start? Can always make that 12 months later.
Why would leaving early, burn a bridge? Is it not a training contract that you would need to pay back? Im not saying its the greatest idea, but if you want AA, and a new pic slot you could risk it, take the new pic type, and IF AA calls to employ you within 12 months, pay back your portion if contract. Or see if they would entertain a specific date for a class that would keep you from paying your training contract/ burning a bridge. They would be happy to see that although you want to work for AA you dont want to screw over your current employer, they will like to see that as it means you would return the favor if that time comes.

Plus, no matter what there will always be people who are sour when you leave. Iv had 3 aviation jobs, and 2 of the 3 acted as if i had lit the place on fire with months and months of prior notice. Sometime you just gotta walk across that bridge to see if it burns...

 

Some of this depends on where you stand with AA. Do you have excellent internal connections? Military fighter/test pilot experience? Or are you just another one of 10,000 average white guys on file with no heavy jet time?

If you really have good reason to think you're about to get called, then consider carefully.

Otherwise, I'd just take the upgrade and plan on paying off the contract on the off-chance that AA calls within a year. The money, and possible bridge burning, is irrelevant if you're leaving for a career-destination job like AA. I also wouldn't shift your availability to the right on the app.

A training contract is not indentured servitude, slavery was outlawed by Lincoln, although many aviation employer apparently didn't get that memo. You are honor-bound to pay off the contract, you are not obligated to work there for a year regardless of the personal consequences.

 

I have over 4,000 hours TT, I am current 121, prior 135/91, engineering degree with honors, never failed a checkride, numerous LORs, and 3 internal Rec's at AA. I have not received the TBNT, but I haven't even received the video invite. My app is over 6 months old (I applied at Day 1).

So... You're probably safe to take your upgrade. Seriously, I would not delay your present career progress in the hope that something might work out with the Legacy airlines. It will just lead to disappointment.

 

I really appreciate all of your answers. It looks like I will end up taking the transition. If AA calls, I will update the appropriate thread. Thanks for the insight, all of you who responded professionally!

 

I think that's a good move. Good luck, and I hope AA calls you when it works best!

 

What aircraft are you transferring to? They will probably take 121 guys over 135, but it all depends on who you know and how you present yourself. Military background is a plus.

 

Going from a Beechjet to a Hawker. No military background. Previous freight, air ambulance, and a bachelors.