Opportunities for a TN domicile?
 

Hey guys! New here and looking at making the jump from USMC. I would like to move back to TN (between Memphis and Nashville). What are some suggestions for job opportunities with domicile either in MEM or BNA (possibly even BHM)? I'm looking to be able to drive for the commute and these are all 1.5 to 3 hrs from my home.
Stats - Prowler pilot getting out at 12 years with 2k PIC and looking for QOL over ultimate pay. I'm investigating reserve options like NAS Meridian IP.

FDX is based in MEM. Maybe SWA will open a base in MEM once DL pulls out? I would never pick an airline solely based on domicile however.

Other than FedEx in MEM, not many places domicile pilots in TN anymore. I think Pinnacle still has an RJ base in Memphis, but mainline Delta closed its Memphis pilot base. Mesa used to have a base in Nashville, but I don't believe they do anymore. American has long since closed Nashville as a hub, and the biggest player in BNA is Southwest, but they don't have a pilot base there. PSA has a relatively small domicile in Knoxville. That's pretty much it ... get on at FedEx or a couple of regionals.

The closest you can realistically get to TN basing is probably SDF (UPS), CLT (US Airways), ATL (Delta, Southwest), or CVG (Delta). Embrace a longer drive, flying to work, or moving, I'm afraid to tell you.

Atlas in HSV

Opportunities for a TN domicile?
 

Don't forget Mountain Air Cargo in MEM. Pinnacle closed their MEM base in April I believe. If your really into TN, TYS had a PSA base at one time I thought. You could always look at STL as well.

There's a company called ISR Group out Savannah TN looking for UAV pilots

Thanks for all the replies. Until recently I had not considered getting out before retirement. With the separation bonus currently available and the civilian market starting to look up I am trying to get ideas together.
It sounds like the best option is FedEx. Ive always heard they are near the top of most pilots' list if preferences. I thought their hiring window is closed. Any ideas how often (and how long) they open their window?
As far as the other company suggestions listed above, what are your recommendations concerning hiring/advancement and quality of life?

The job market isn't looking as good as you may have heard.

True. Yet. And good luck figuring out FEDEX. The only mil guys I know who have gotten on there are patch wearers (Fighter Weapons School Grads) but I have a very limited perspective. You're right though in that they aren't currently hiring and when they do numbers are relatively small.

Personally? Apply everywhere that's reasonable for you and go with the girl who says yes.

PSA in Knoxville.

This outfit is just starting up in the MEM area. Might be worth a look...

www.iflysouthern.com

Also, SeaPort Airlines has a base in MEM.

SeaPort Airlines :: Homepage

I doubt either place is something you'd want to make a career of, but different strokes for different folks.

FWIW My roommate just got on with Expressjet and is living in Murfreesboro. So he will commute from BNA to his base in ORD.

If you're interested in the regional route that is. Personally, I'd recommend Atlas if you have the time. No such thing as commuting with them.

I am from MEM. I used to fly for a 135 that went belly up. I spent 5 years trying to find another gig in TN or MS.....ended up moving to TX. A lot more pilot jobs down here.

Mountain Air Cargo is a pretty decent place to work as far as QOL. We really don't work that hard and if you are based in Memphis you don't spend too much time away from home.