eman

So, I've got nearly 3900hrs, got my 1000TPIC (Turboprop), less than 100 jet, almost three years of 135 flying experience, and nearly 2 of corporate, did 4 years of CFI'ing along the way, finishing my A.S degree. I've always loved corporate but that hasn't happened for me yet in jets, I try and try and network like crazy, but nothing yet.

1. I have gained more interest in the airlines lately and have been applying to the LCC's but to no avail yet. I think I'm missing either 121 experience, or jet or both.
-Which is more important, or are they both going to be important to get an interview anywhere but the regionals?

2. I've always done my best to stay away from the regionals, because even at the best paying ones, I'd be living in my car unless I can gross over $2000/month (I'm afraid to take the risk thinking I could and then be surprised when after busting my hump I don't make enough and will be screwed). SO I've thought lately about joining the local companies like World Atlantic, and Silver. I know what pay will be like, but I can stay in my home town and get by thanks to living with family. But does that turboprop time at Silver help me out in any way? I may be mistaken, but I think I should be focusing on jet time, from what I'm reading and hearing from guys getting hired.

If I could afford it, I would just join a regional and ride it out, but it's going to be nearly impossible...especially since I would have no way of paying for college to get that B.S degree and be more competitive. which really worries me.

3. What about working Part 135 in jets? I do get calls for that kind of job, but then I start wondering how 121 time vs 135 will be looked at when applying somewhere. I know it might help me with the corporate dream, since I'll meet people who have those jobs and fly the type of aircraft commonly used in this area.

For the time being, I'm back to CFI'ing, got the SIC in a couple of jets and hope a contract flight comes up soon again, have a chance at a G3 Part 135 job but the FAA's backlog of .293 oral exams means that the wait time is undetermined. Being at a job fair last month and talking to the guys with oodles of time in airlines I felt like I don't stand a chance against those qualifications!


Thank you guys for any insight into what I need to get those interviews at LCC's and other airlines. It's better to learn from those who are where I want to be than to remain in the dark!

rickair7777

Half my FO's lately have been turboprop CA's from other regionals. I'd say you need glass/jet time and some 121 would help too. I'm guessing that 121 jet SIC would do the trick since you can already check the TPIC box.

I suspect 121 time would be better than 135 if the goal is the majors. You'll meet more people who are major-airline bound, and get to talk to pilots from various airlines. Also good chance that majors like previous 121 experience since it's similar to the schedules they fly.

propilot

Finish 4 yr degree
Check airman
ACP
CP
DO
Anything else above and beyond

At this point you are just like every other regular line pilot... You need some of the above to set you apart. Everyone has flight time. What makes you different? Don't focus on the flight time, it is only a small factor in the equation.