135 interview

[kwb13]

I have a interview coming up with a small 135 operation. What should I expect? I've been through a couple of 121 interviews, but I imagine it must be different. Is it just a get to know you type thing or a full on technical "build me a airplane" type thing? Also, should I dress up like the 121 interviews (suit)? Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Gulfstream 200]

First, unless you know for a fact NOT TO -- I would always wear a suit. better a little overdressed than underdressed.

Most small 135 operators will just be looking for qualifications and ratings (they hate to spend money) and a hard working attitude. (when you fly they make money)

I cant imagine many will be too technical, but you never know!

Good Luck!

(wear the suit!)

 

[Rick1128]

Because 135 pilots tend to have more contact with the clients than 121 pilots, operators tend to look for customer oriented pilots.Personable and so on.

 

[Timebuilder]

If you are claiming to have experience in the kind of airplane they fly, then I would know that airplane COLD.

If they fly something completely different from what you have flown, then only a basic idea of the airplane is a good idea.

I went with a tie, and the first thing the CP said was "take that da** tie off!"

But I'd go with the suit and wait for that reaction.

 

[HMR]

As far as quantity of flight time, I was the least qualified applicant when I interviewed for my 135 job (1300TT/500Multi). I was the most qualified when it came to customer service. That's why I got hired. Most of the interview questions were "what would you do with a customer in this situation..."
Definitely wear a nice suit. I can't believe the guys that show up for interviews with our company wearing shorts or with a goatee. They don't get passed the secretary. You can always loosen a tie or roll up a sleeve if the boss says you're overdressed. You won't even see the boss if you look like a slob.

GOOD LUCK!

 

[English]

I second HMR's comments.

My company recently gave a 23 year-old, 600 hour TT pilot (with 30 hours of multi time) the opportunity to "intern" at our company. He is paid to work in the office and in the hangar, and as a side deal, he was to ride along in the right seat of the CJ.

This guy doesn't know how good he has it. The first time he showed up for a trip with me, he was wearing a t-shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. The second time was better, but still not up to par - a black polo shirt and black pants, when the company dress code is white dress shirt and tie with black pants.

I'd fire the guy right now if I had the authority.

What matters most is customer service and your appearance. If you were with-it enough to pass all your checkrides, then you are trainable for the rest of the stuff. What can't be taught is how to dress properly, how to shave and comb one's hair, and how to be presentable to a passenger in a professional manner.


My rant is over. Thanks for letting me vent...

 

[eddie]

English - Maybe no one told him about the dress code, did you mention it to him?

At my last 135 interview I was asked the basic get to know you questions and then was asked situational questions based on customer service, MEL items, wind shear procedures during take off, and a time and distance to descend problem.

You are traveling at 420 knots you need to descend 40,000 feet, how far out will you start down...

good luck!

 

[English]

Of course I did.

 

[Prof. ATP]

Don't get lulled into complacency on the technical part. Our Chief Pilot gives a long technical interview (charts, FARs, aircraft systems, etc) then takes you flying and puts you into an unusual situation (for example, nonpublished hold, or crossing the marker too high) to see how you react.

 

[350DRIVER]

Know the aircraft that you are currently flying inside and out. Be able to brief some approach that you may not be overly familiar with.. I think we use the Aspen plates, know the symbols, etc, etc ,.... Since you have more contact with the pax you should expect scenario type questions as well.

good luck

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