Returning to fly in USA
 

Gentleman, I haven't used Airline Pilot Central yet so here is my initial shot.

I'm currently US citizen flying as an 737-300/500/700 F/O for a European carrier. I have a JAA (F) ATPL, also have an FAA Comm, multi, FAA ATP written complete, FAA FEX written complete. 1400plus hours, approx 400hrs on type.

I may have to return home to USA due to unforseen circumstances.

Any advice on what steps I might take to break into regionals or whatever...?

Lifter

Send in applications to any and all regionals that you may want to fly with. Being that you have good quality time in jet aircraft, you will more than meet their requirements, time wise. Be sure… they will ask you about your European flying experience, and probably will wonder if you would go back. You will need to be prepared to answer that particular question.

Try to obtain copies of all of your training records. While they will write to your current employer for those records, at least you can offer your copy to the ball rolling. Try to obtain some form of verification of your airman certificate, and record of no certificate action against you in the country you are certified.

Good luck

captjns,

Thank you for your sound advice. I can see how they would wonder if I would go back.
Yes, i have copies of all the training records too. I never thought of the verification of my airman's certificate. I'll try to get most of these items before I leave.

Thanks again.

rgds,

Lifter

Why go to the regionals........Look at the LCC's! ;)

Because he only has 1400+. The lowest that I have seen is 1500 as a published minimum. Most want 2500+. That's at least what I have gathered from his post. :D

Starlifter.

Try to volunteer on your days off that you are not rostered to fly. Build up as much time as you can before returning to the US.

The old saying... more is better.

captjns,

I agree more is better. I am volunteering as much as possible. Just got my new roster today with 65+ hrs for July. I'm pushing for 1500 before I get in the must move position.

I'm pushing! As you said...more is better...

Thanks,
Lifter

Captjns,

Thanks again for your advice back in June on my return to USA situation. Things have settled now therefore, it looks as though i'll stay put in the EU for the time being. My plan is to fly my @$$ off over the next 24 months and look for a possible upgrade. I'm now at 1700hrs plus and expect to get another 1600-1700hrs over the next 24 mos. I'm also going to go back to US in January 07 to get my FAA 737 type.So to at least have it on my license.
I spent far too much time (6500hrs+) sitting side saddle in the USAF. Damn.....

again thanks,
Lifter