Low Timer
 

Ok so I have a question I would like to be addressed. I am a recent new hire with low time. I have proven I could fly in the past (CFI/Traffic reporting in Boston Class B airspace), but I will be the first to say that is way different from situations that may present themselves in everyday line flying (especially emergencies).

I am fortunate and grateful that I have had the opportunity to break into the industry at such a time. I also realize that I have a lot to learn, much more so than the 2000 hour pilot in my shoes (even though we are all constantly learning). I am not cocky but I do know that there are people who believe that pilots like me don't deserve to be in the position I'm in with the lack of experience. At the same time I feel you'd be a fool to not take advantage of the situation. How do I answer the big question when CA's ask me how much time I have? I don't want to not answer it, that can create greater problems in itself. At the same time, I don't want to seem too modest that I seem under-confident.

If you are ashamed about your flight time, why are you there?
To answer your question:
I would tell him after you fly with him, maybe make him guess. Have some fun with it.

BTW, I'm not trying to be a jack@$$. I just know that I wouldn't want to be at a place where I am ashamed to tell people how much flight time I have

I'm uber-new to the industry myself, but I haven't had any CA's ask me my hours. Every one just asks what you did before, and you'll have a much better answer than "I graduated with my aviation degree".

Be truthful and let your flying do the talking. He'll only care if you can't perform you duties safely and efficiently. After all the industry is what it is, this isn’t the first time they’ve hired low timers. Dating back to the 30’s the Regionals, Majors and Legacies have all had periods were they hired low timers just like there were times a 3000/2000 hr pilot couldn’t find a job.

I am not all ashamed of my time and I am confident in my abilities. I personally have not experienced anything negative from other people. I know what is required and haven't gone into brain dump mode. I have just heard tons of stories from my friends about how people have judged them before they have even taken off and are upset that we have the opportunity to be where we are now. I guess I was trying to find an answer that could show my confidence without being cocky at the same time.

I guess it's not as prevelant as I've been made to think it is. Btw I am trying to get my posts up. Thanks for the responses.

Like JetJock said, let your flying do the talking. As long as you are safe and standard, h probably won't say a thing. Not being cocky is 100% of the battle.

Good because I'm not, but I know that my flying will do the proper talking. Thanks guys.

No problem, good luck and blue skies!