Applying to Regionals - how?

[flyf15]

Just a little background info... I am a ~550hr CFI getting ready to graduate college. I'm applying for all sorts of positions, from flight schools to regional airlines. Flight schools are easy enough, bring in a resume/cover letter to their chief instructor/manager/owner, talk with them and find out what their status is/what they're looking for, etc.

Now, regional airlines on the other hand... I will admit I don't really have any clue in this department. How does one go about applying to these companies? I know it seems like quite a dumb question, but I'd really like to do it right.

Thanks much guys, your time is appreciated.

 

[imacdog]

I just sent mine in via email. Every regional I sent one to got back to me.

 

[threegreen]

step one is selling your soul to satan.

 

[NYCPilot]

I dont know if too many regionals are hiring 550 hr guys...

 

[MarineGrunt]

Most airlines have specific instructions on their websites on how to apply. All you have to do is look.......

 

[flyf15]

Yep, I've been following the instructions on the websites. Just making sure there isn't any "you must do this" type stuff that someone like me wouldn't know about... in addition to any tips or other various things.

I dont know if too many regionals are hiring 550 hr guys...

Understandably. I'm doing it in the slight case that I get a bite or something. Can't hurt...

 

[MarineGrunt]

Yep, I've been following the instructions on the websites. Just making sure there isn't any "you must do this" type stuff that someone like me wouldn't know about... in addition to any tips or other various things.

Other than making sure your resume and cover letter are flawless and making sure you fill out the applications correctly (no spelling errors), they are all pretty straight foward in what they require. If you post what airlines you are after, you will get much more specific information...

 

[MarineGrunt]

If you have some multi time, try Airnet. They are about the only place you have the mins for. They require 500tt and 100me. You start out as an SIC in a navajo I think, but it's a start.

The regionals are going to be impossible to break into at your flight time (unless all of it is in an F-15). I'm at about 800 with half of it turbine time in Air Force jets, 400 multi and I can't even get anyone to look at me. Even the regional that I already work for! Not saying I'm surprised, just stating how difficult it is out there. Focus your time and effort on getting on with a place like Airnet (where you have the mins already) or a solid CFI job where you have a lot of opportunity to log multi time. While at it, try to find a flight school that also runs a charter/cargo operation so you have the chance to advance within the company.

Stay positive, work hard and you'll do ok. Good luck.

(good thing I have that aviation degree, huh??? )

 

[Mike man]

ummm...here is a thought send a resume and cover letter.

 

[Whataburger]

Go to airlinepilotcentral.com and look under Regionals. If a company is hiring, it will say exactly how to apply. Just follow the directions. Good luck.

 

[psysicx]

There was a guy over at Jetcareers who just got hired by Colgan with 550 hrs and no F-15 or mil time.

 

[Terry Hunter]

Hey, here's a silly question.

How do you fill out applications - do you type them, or handwrite them?

Sorry for the brief hijack of the thread.

 

[JD2003]

I handwrite them in block print. I make it so neat in black ink that it looks like they are typed. I have interviewed with four regionals and got four offers.

I know things can be lean but try not to skimp on the suit. I went out and bought a 500 dollar Italian suit. It cost me dearly but I sure looked allot better than the guy next to me in the tacky twede jacket...You only have a finite amount of time to make an impression. Granted, the clothes don't make the man/woman...but they sure can lend to a good image being put forth.

Study your ATP written...particualarly questions pertaining to 121 operators and 91 regs.

Good luck

 

[U-I pilot]

Get a good resume/cover letter together and start getting it out there. If nothing else it will get a file going with the airline and show you have interest. Then dont just sit back....UPDATE.
Do everything that can make you more qualified and get all the usual requirements knocked out...Passport, FCC permit, 1st class medical, ATP written etc....these are all things that could hang you up if someone by chance did want you now.

My limited experience would say send em out now. I guarentee you wont get called if you dont send. If a place lowers minimums (off chance, but still a chance) because they need pilots yesterday and yours is already on someones desk...you have a much better chance of a call versus if you send it in when every 500 hour pilot gets the memo.
Good luck.

 

[MarineGrunt]

Hey, here's a silly question.

How do you fill out applications - do you type them, or handwrite them?

Sorry for the brief hijack of the thread.

Whenever possible, I type them. If the company has and application in PDF file, sometimes they have it set up for you to do it. If not, you can create your own text boxes to type in. My handwriting isn't bad, I think it just looks much neater. (is "neater" a word, or is it "more neat>" Calling grammar police!!!)

 

[1973Arrow]

send your stuff in every week. Keep things updated and keep faxing/e-mailing it it. There is/are more than one regional out there that is hiring guys with less time than you have.

 

[PacoPollo]

I dont know if too many regionals are hiring 550 hr guys...

Try Gulfstream Airlines in Fl. quick upgrades.