Getting back on track.....at age 42
 

Hello forum people!

Been a reader of this great forum for a while, but this is my first post.

I'm interested in real world advice related to beginning an airline career at age 42.

My background: My earliest flight training was in a Starduster bi-plane at age 14. Ages 17 - 22 I earned my Private, Instrument, Commercial, CFII, & MEI.

Total time is about 4,000 Hours PIC, 450 Multi, Limited turbine right seat here and there.

Most of the flight time was accumulated doing flight instruction with some 135 experience in a Navajo.

My resume is sort of an antique train wreck as I left flying to work locally for a friend's business, went back to work at the flight school & then quit flying again (around 2013) when the school changed hands.

Since then, the wife and I have been running an eBay "business" together going to estate sales and selling online, so I don't show any employment since 2013.

If any of you or someone you know may have been in a similar situation and was hired by an airline I would appreciate suggestions on how to proceed. Also, how much is my lack of recent flight time going to affect the situation.

Thanks!

edit: Heh! I see a few, almost identical, posts have been made regarding this. Looks like a popular concern around here!

Get current again (BFR and IPC). You will have no problem getting hired (multiple offers) by Regional carriers.

It wouldn't hurt to pick up some full time CFI work as a resume builder and way to really get back in the game. Regionals are pretty desperate, but I hope you've researched the pay and QOL for regional F/Os. Good luck!

I was 41 when I was hired into my first 121 piloting job. My previous experience was similar but I was also a flight attendant at a Part 121 carrier. Strangely enough, that did help.

Getting current will be most helpful. With your total time and ME time, once current, you should be an attractive candidate for several regionals.

I have been looking around at the various regionals. Looks like pay for f/o's is getting better at some - Endeavor seems interesting with its incentives.

Along with currency, I realize that I will have to get re-acquainted with the glass cockpit. I did complete a CRJ200 cert course at ATP in 2005, but most of my time has been logged with the old stuff!

Thanks for the info!

He-heh. Antique train wreck. I feel you, my brother. I've made a career out of fixing and flying airplanes that are mostly older than I am, and I've got you by a few years. Nothing wrong with that, and this old dog says that while trying to learn a new trick: studying FMS notes for an upcoming check ride. We have a unique perspective that holds value, don't sell yourself short. Work hard and catch up, but don't feel you are behind.

Good luck! I'm stealing your Antique Train Wreck, btw. I'm sure it will be useful during week two of training! Thanks!

Ronin

I wouldn't worry about your age......When I was doing interviews/hiring for a large regional (during my UAL furlough) we liked to see some "older" folks in the mix... they bring some things to the table that work well in a new hire class... your background in running a small business etc.... I am helping a 52 year old as we speak. A few years ago I helped a 45 year old a few years ago....he is now a senior VP of Flight Ops at a large Jet 121 operator!

Go for it....!

'cuse da typos I am on my "aye" phone