Recency/Currency
 

I retired from the AF in 2012 from a desk job. I was wondering if anyone knows what quality and quantity of recency/currency was required/desired for legacy and cargo companies.

TT 3300
PIC 2050

Last flight Jan 2009 (stupid desk job!!)

I have a USAF friend who retired this year after not flying for about 4 years. I think he had more time than you, but he got hired by Sky West and another commuter (can't remember which) within a month or two of applying. I don't know if they're still hiring.

He was getting no looks from the majors at all, but the commuters snapped him up quickly. He's planning to get a year or two of currency and 121 experience and then try for the majors.

Probably not what you wanted to hear, but the good news is they really liked his military flying/leadership qualities.

Sadly, this is very valid for the bros...there are far too many people to compete against with no recency. I would also suggest Allegiant, depending on where you are retiring to...their hiring is going pretty well thus far, it seems.

Just talked to an AF guy in the same position. He applied everywhere and got hired at Republic. After about 7 months, he got hired at a better place.

Get on with a commuter and apply with the majors as soon as you finish IOE. You'll be current.

No point in waiting X months or Y hours at the regional before you apply to the majors. It might be X+, 2X, or more before a major calls you.

This for sure! My bud's doing exactly as you say. Get a job. Get current and apply everywhere.

You'll understand the civilian or 121 world better once you start flying for the regional. Will having that experience make the difference in the interview at a major? Who knows? Will it hurt? No.

Either way, it will get you current. Regionals are probably about the only aviation employers which will hire somebody who's years out of currency.

Similar situation here. Over 6000 hours mostly 121. Would a 135 recip prop gig serve the same purpose??

If you havn't flown since 2009 I'd get a flying gig. Anything is better than nothing but flying a 172 doesn't compete with a 121 job. But a Caravan bush flying, or night cargo, would help you tell a better story than flying a 172. Show desire to pursue this career. For whatever reason you stepped off the treadmill while thousands stayed on it. Be able to show, and tell, why you stepped off. Also be prepared to explain why you're back and what steps you've undertaken to be a career pilot.

Hoping that a major airline calls you, when you're 4-5 yrs non current, is a low probability position.

Timing is on your side since regionals are struggling to find candidates due to the 1500 hr rule. Good luck.