With a large amount of pilots at FDX and UPS becoming aged will it become easier to get on in the next 10 or so years? I understand age 65 puts a damper on things but it's only a five year extension. I don't know much about there ops so don't hate.

I don't think it will get easier. Maybe if the pax haulers get profits and pay up again like it was in the 90's you'd see more guys heading or staying on that side. Get your app in when the windows open, network, and hope for the best...

yeah I'm far from putting in my app but want to know the best way to position myself for when the time comes. Maybe I should start driving a FedEx or UPS truck on the side

FYI ... I know many (and they are many on this forum) FedEx pilots that started in non-flying jobs so they could get head of the line interview opportunities. It's a good way to get your foot in the door.

Not a bad idea. Things may have slowed down for now but at some in the next 5 years it may open up to be a real gusher. Or at least better than a trickle. OOppss I have to go to the bathroom now.........

do they hire part time package handlers?

Yes, like me. But you still have to meet the hiring mins when you interview for a pilot job.

Hog how does or did that work with your flying gig? I looked on the web site and it looks like you need to put in almost 4-5 days/nights a week? Did it really help you get your foot in the door. They looked like they were taking applications for loading at ORD...that might actually be interesting for a bit.

lot's of guys threw boxes, others drove trucks, I was an instructor in the training department.. I know...and they hired me anyway.... HA.. stop you're killin me.

any job with the company makes you an internal hire. Better than an external in most cases. good luck.

If my memory serves me, after talking with a professional instructor sometime in the last year, they have a guaranteed seniority number after 3 years. Their interview is, in essence, a joint "instruct/fly" session.

I tossed boxes at a station (non-airport facility) for a year and change prior to flying. After a year a similarly placed employee would be considered for an interview providing we are hiring at that time. You go to the head of the line assuming you meet the min hiring criteria. That policy is/was applicable to all internal employees (i.e. year in current position and can apply for any opening for which you are qualified outside your current work location).

Permanent part-time employment is typically 17.5 hours a week min, and that qualifies you also for medical/401K/etc. benefits.