Lori, et al,

Interested to hear your thoughts on the "older" applicant when it comes to interviews at the regional / 135 level, especially if they have advanced educational degrees, i.e. MS / PhD level, are married, stable financially, etc.., AND have decent flight experience (ATP, CFI, A&P, etc).

Thanks for your time. Great forum!

I would hire you!

Personal stability is a plus. It is really quite commonplace these days to see "mid-life" career changes so age isn't the factor it once was. Not to mention that airlines no longer have the old-school retirement plans, so they aren't necessarily looking for 20 years out of you.

Instead, they are looking for a good return on investment. What constitutes a "good return?" well, it depends on the airline. Regional airlines, while they have become a place to hang your hat (yes, I really said that) are still mostly considered a stepping stone to a bigger and better airline. So, if they can get 2-5 years of service out of you they have made a good investment.

I am a big proponent of advanced education, but unfortunately it really doesn't mean a whole lot for a pilot. Unless you are looking to move into a management-type position within the corporate offices. It DOES show that you are dedicated and ambitious which are qualities of value. But I wouldn't put much stock in the degrees themselves.

And on a final note, financial stability is HUGE...for YOU. This industry is so incredibly unstable that if you are entering it already financially stable you won't experience the same worries and stresses the rest of us suffer. Good for you!

Hope that helps!
Lori

Thanks for your time Lori!