Anyone know what the deal will be with hiring in 08 for Southwest? Or how the age 65 rule will effect that hiring?

 

Unfortunately slim to none

 

Or just none!

 

You're right. Only those on the top of the pool might see a class date in '08.

 

Come on guys! FedEx and UPS are unlikley to hire for a few years. I was counting on you. I can't even get on with NetJets because they have that crazy 2500 total time requirment. Since when is 2000 hours of single engine piston and 500 hours of turbo prop better than 1500 hours of military fighter jet time? Not to knock those guys, but there is a reason why the majors have hourly requirements that allow for fighter guys to have a shot also. Not all hours are the same.

I really don't want to try Delta, United, or Continental. Hmm, maybe I'll do three more on active duty. So you guys think they will just give class dates to the guys already hired and in the pool, huh, and not need any new hires? That sucks for me I guess.

 

All we hear from Dallas is that growth is slowing in '08. Maybe a net of 5 planes.

"Codeshare" and "Merger" seem to be the new buzz words, and age 65 is now in effect.

And on top of it all we are in contract negotiations.

Unless something comes from way out in left field, '08 doesn't look good for any addition hiring.

It's too bad, 'cause this is still a great place to work.

 

hey flaps 9. im in the pool about halfway down maybe a little more. so what you are hearing , it does not look good for 08?

 

Cooperd0g- Look out this subject(military vs. civilian) will be met with much angst and requires a thread of its own.

 

Merger? Any company names being tossed around?

Stetson20

 

Coop,

First--I know you have to be frustrated. You have a list of 2-3 dream jobs, and none of them are hiring. As a guy who's done a lot of interview coaching, I'll give you a few options that I see.

1. If you absolutely are ready to leave the military--then find an ANG/Reserve traditional reservist job and get nested. Take that CAL or DAL job if you can get it. There is nothing that says you have to RETIRE from those companies, but get in the game. Total time an issue? You'll fly 80 hours a month at either company, and then the NJ total times won't be an issue for long. You can jump to another company when the opportunity exists.

2. Find an AGR/TAR slot. Tough pickin's I know....easier said then done.

3. Take the bonus and stay in another 7 years. From just a business perspective, this option is no longer the sacrifice it was in 1998. Back then, the math said you could quit at 19 years and still come out ahead in the airlines. The 9/11 fallout, loss of pensions, and reduced salaries eliminated this advantage...probably making it a wash depending on your situation and whether or not you ended up at a FDX/SWA/UPS type company or one that had been hit a bit harder. Now with the age change you can still get a 20+ year career at an airline AFTER a full military career. This change is monumental, and something that is going to fundamentally change the equation. I don't think everyone has fully absorbed all the ramifications of this yet.

For me--the desire for a bit more stability to raise my kids in a certain community and pursue other dreams drove me to leave the military. I'm happy with my choices, but its no longer the obvious best financial choice. In fact, at most companies, its probably not the most lucrative option at all anymore. That doesn't mean its not a good move--its just that money should not be the only factor.

Good luck in your decisions. I know its tough--been there, done that...