Depends on the airline. I think Delta requires the bachelors degree. But even if not required, most it is preferred. It is one more distinguishing factor and has some value assigned to it by the system that each airline uses to select someone for an interview. An associate degree is better than none or even sixty credits but no degree. It is probably less critical than in the past, but I have always told anyone who has asked me about a flying career to get their degree first in something they could live with if they can’t fly some day. It will help you get the job with a major and also a blan B. Today everyone is hiring. One never knows what will happen overnight from personal life to world events.

Only if you want to get to a Legacy, UPS/Fedex, or SWA.

Man that stinks. When I got the degree I didn't have plans to be a pilot. I'd sure hate to go to a regional and then not be able to get into a Major because of that. I've been looking at Endeavor, but that could not me out of getting into Delta down the road. I guess Envoy with flow is my best option.

Be careful; flow will not be anytime soon for a new hire. They had been selling new hires on a 6 year flow; at this point it won't be less than 9 years for a new hire. However, currently the flow is at 12 years ('06 hires), and 12 years is the fastest it has ever been so far.

If you need that 4 year degree, just do it online while working for a regional. At least that will theoretically give you more options.

These are my personal opinions and not the opinions of any entity or employer.

Yep, if you're goal is a legacy without getting a 4 year degree, then flow is probably going to be your only option. But as others have stated, it will take quite some time waiting on the flow. And even with EDV, you have to meet Delta's minimum hiring requirements (4 year degree) to be considered for the guaranteed interview. But also keep in mind there are plenty of decent places to go without a 4 year degree- Jet Blue, Frontier, etc...

Honestly, if I didn't have a four year degree and was dead set on not getting one, this would be my target. Not flow.

I only had 2 years of college when I started at my first regional. I finished my 4 year degree online last year.
I got a years worth of credits (30 hrs) for all of my certificates and ratings. that left me needing just 30 hours which I was able to complete in 2, 90 day terms. I was taking a full course load, and it was a ton of work, but was able to knock it out. It can be done and will help your chances of advancement later on.

What school and would you recommend it?

ERAU. The best there is, no doubt about it.

Thomas Edison State University. Worked very well for me.