Benbc

I知 currently a driver at FedEx Frieght and I知 working on my ppl at the moment. Has there been anyone to start out as a handler or driver and ended up as a pilot?

hoya saxa

Lots of folks started out working in hubs, but I致e yet to meet a former driver here. Same concept though. Won稚 get you an automatic interview or even necessarily preferential treatment but former company experience (with a good record) is viewed very favorably. That said, I知 sure you know there痴 a LOOONG road to hoe between where you are now and meeting even the bare minimums for a pilot position. I think it would be tough to get there without leaving the driver gig for a full-time flying job/jobs to work your way up the rungs of professional aviation. This has been discussed in depth on this forum a few times from the perspective of folks throwing packages. Do some digging and you値l probably find more insight and details than I can offer. Good luck and safe driving!


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TEBourne

I知 pretty sure the Systems Chief Pilot was a firmer driver.


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Nightflyer

There is a lady who started out as a box thrower, moved to management of a ramp, worked on her PPL, eventually took a leave of absence or quit to work for 2-3 years at a regional, and has been a pilot on the seniority list for around 20 years. The ramp she worked at, I forget where, didn't think she would make it, and were really surprised when she showed up at that same ramp in the right seat of a 727.

So, it can be done, but it is a multi-year commitment. Your FedEx experience should help you get an interview, I would think, but you will need to get the 1000 hours PIC, which means spending at least 2-3 years at a regional. Good news is, there is lots of movement, and lots of hiring across the industry, so this is a good time.

Good luck, and we are hoping you make it.

It will take a few years of paying your dues, but it will be worth it in the end, so keep your end goal in mind while you are working your butt off to get (back) here.

Benbc

I could imagine their faces when she pulled up. Such an awesome story.

frozenboxhauler

Hi, Ben.
I started as a "heavy-weight handler" and am now an MD11 captain in ANC (since 2003). Keep going and don't give up.
Cheers,
fbh

Albief15

And I imagine there is a long line of grateful women for the that...

Some typos are more fun than others...

TiredSoul

If things really work in your favor and you meet all other Fedex requirements you could be there in 5-6 years.
IR and CPL - 1 year
Fly freight in Alaska - 2 years
https://www.aceaircargo.com/jobs/first-officer-2/
Atlas/Southern - 2(3) years and start applying
Or:
Regionals 2(3) years and start applying


Never give up.
Crazier things have happened.
Good luck.

HIFLYR

I started as the same in the NE Input 30 years ago this December. There are actually quite a few of us who started out in other positions at FedEx. As FBH said Keep going and don稚 give up.
Good Luck

Benbc

That痴 for all the feedback! Greatly appreciate it.