Just had to ask......Does working as a gate agent, flight attendent, ramp worker etc... have any effect on getting hired as a Flight Crew member. Not withstanding the obvious that you must know how to fly, does it help you get a foot in the door so to speak? Thanks in advance!

Yes it does!!! I worked for NWA and networked. I walked my resume into the MESABA chief pilot's office myself. I'm a 'Red Tail Guy'. I think I wouldn't be here if others didn't help me along the way (if you're out there reading this thanks!). So when I can, I pay it forward.

I think it's a great idea. It allows you into the inner workings of an amazing culture and industry. I spent many years doing different things within the airlines, and it really makes my job as a 121 pilot easier. I understand all the workings of the different employee groups that participate in getting our aircraft out on time. It's such an asset to understand intimately what your gate agents, flight attendants, caterers, rampers are going through while they are working your flight. Especially when issues arise. You can relate to them, and you get immediate respect from them, when they realize that you can understand their situation, have been in their shoes, and don't look at things from only the "pilot" side of view.

I recomend getting your dispatch ticket. Working as a dispatcher will be the best experience prior to becoming a pilot for the company. You will become familiar with the FOM, QRH, Jepps, SOP's, and the bigger picture of how and why things get done. Speaking from experience, I dispatched for about 2 years prior to switching over to the flight line, and it really helped me get the job, but it also helps me everyday I fly.