Flexjet Hiring ?

[Climbthrust]

I have my papers in at Flex for while now and have not heard a whisper from them. Does anyone have current info on upcoming classes or if they are even interviewing?

 

[BigFlyr]

Flex hiring

I'm just getting through training now, waiting to do the bounces on Saturday and there's another small class right behind me. From what I understand, they are continuing to interview, however, for classes starting early next year so If you're interested, keep sending resumes every week or so... try both e-mail and fax. Good Luck.

 

[Starshipper]

Bigflyr,

What type of aircraft are newhires being trained on - L45, L60...? How are newhires selected for each type - is there a bidding system based on SS# or just availability? What are you training on - and how do you like it (I guess just the sim for now) thusfar vs. what you flew previously and why?


Thanks

 

[BigFlyr]

I'm not sure what it takes to get hired here other than you have a three part interview which consists of a short written test, a simulator evaluation which will most likely be in the Lear 45 and a personal interview. You can get the gouge on aviationinterviews.com.

As for what they are hiring for... all I can say is it could be in any of their aircraft but most likely will be for one of the Learjets. I don't think your past experience will have anything to do with what they put you in unless you already have a specific Lear type rating. Everyone in the class had some sort of type rating and around 5000 hours + flight time with maybe one exception and there wasn't any pattern as to what aircraft they were put in, with the exception of one guy who already had a Lear 60 type so they kept him in it.

The Lear 45 has been the most popular lately and they have two identical simulators... brand new Level D. (They're all Level D)

I was originally awarded "my choice" of the Learjets and took the 60 but when I got here they decided to cut back on 60 slots, so I got "stuck" with the Lear 31, which is, if you saw me (6'4") a very tight squeeze but "doable". Got the type, just waiting to do the bounces. My overall impression so far is that the ground school is very quick to digest all the material in one week followed by a straight week of sim sessions to your check-ride but again... it's "doable". As for the quality of instruction... It seems to vary between aircraft types. Most of the guys I spoke to in the 60 and 45 said it was not as structured as it should be. As for the 31, I think the training was very thorough with the exception of the FMS training, which they could have covered better in systems class. It would be very beneficial if you have experience with Universal FMSs. Of the 13 in our class two washed-out. I can say that it was the toughest checkride I've ever had, that's for sure.

Bottom line as far as my thoughts about the job... it's a flying job with new airplanes, a schedule, based out of my home town and no out of pocket expenses to get started. There aren't too many jobs out there like that!

 

[Lonestar]

BigFlyr

I noticed that you have the 737 type, did they question you about that in the interview...about leaving and going to SWA? I have heard that they are very skeptical of the type. I'm not trying to say that you would or are even interested - just wondering. I have a few friends that are looking at applying (they also have the type) - and would want to know before interviewing. Also, do they still have a training contract?

Thanks.

 

[BigFlyr]

They didn't ask me about the 737 type since I got it at another airline and like I mentioned before, everyone in the class had some kind of type rating, so I think it's almost a "competative requirement". By the way, there was another guy in the class who also has a 737 type and is a SWA "poolie". Being that the pool is about 4 years deep, they don't seem to care!

 

[Lonestar]

Thanks for the info...Do they still have a contract?

 

[BigFlyr]

If you mean a training contract, the answer is yes. Two years worth around $20K and prorated if you leave early. I believe there is a one year "seat lock" but if they need you in another aircraft before that, you'll be back in school for another type. No additional contracts for additional types. If you mean "labor contract", not really because we're not union but we have an "FOM" (Flight Operations Manual) which spells everything out in black and white from ops specs to general work and duty regs. set forth and "accepted" by the FAA.

 

[Lonestar]

Yeah, it was the training contract that I was asking about. I have a couple of friends who are captains there and they had conflicting answers to that question. It seems as though Flex did - then didn't - then did have one (I guess). Anyway, thanks for the info. Adios.

 

[flexpilot]

Just had to paste all my previous posts. I still think there are better options


Stay away from FlexJet. They will accept you with open arms, but the moment they get a PRIA request you are treated like a different person. The pilots are all pretty good people. like anywhere else. In hindsight, I would only accept at FlexJet if there was no alternative.
Haven't seen anything on this board about Flex in a long time. I guess it's an indication of how little hiring they are doing and how little they are growing.mail

Good move turning down the interview, you would not be happy and would soon be looking for a better job.
The voice of experience.

Great aircraft, great pilots, but after that. forget about the schedule, the pay and the job. The place is a sewer trap. No upgrades, no crew bases, lousy hotels and all the turkey sandwiches you can eat. Remember, the management controls your food, hotel and schedule. With no union, they exercise control!
I worked at Flex and drank the koolaid for two years untill a good friend got me some help. Now at NetJets flying the CE-750 (X) and lovin' life. Recently upgraded for pay purposes to captain.
To answer your original question. No control over your schedule. You never know what you are going to get until 10 days prior to schedule release. Who can live like that? The only way I would take that job is to get experience and move on. Not a career job!

Everyone applying and accepting a position with Flex, I wish you luck. I understand these are hard times and we all have to feed our families.
I worked for Flex for two years. Flew the LR 60. Great plane, lots of good captains. Those are the two good things I have to say.
The top three reasons I quit and went elsewhere.

1. Quality of life. They will work you like a dog. Early departures on your first day out and late return on your last duty day. Bad hotel rooms, whatever the CLC card determines is the cheapest.

2. Pay. Little chance of making more money through OT or chance for advancement to CPT. $33 K annual is terrible pay for what you do.

3. Schedule. The scheduling system they use is pretty whacky. Computer based, you plug in your desires, the company plugs in their needs and the computer spits out your schedule. The kicker is, you find out your schedule less than a month before hand. I think it was on the 20th of the month before when I worked there.

Want to go to a family reunion, cousin Joe's wedding, plan a family outing? Good luck.

There is no union and no redress to unfair, or unequal treatment.

I respect you if you take the job, but you'll see for yourself, no place for a career!

Good Luck!

 

[LEDSLEDDRVR]

Flexjet

........................of course if you don't like it there you can always walk across the hall to Ameristar

 

[vixin]

flexpilot,

You left now move on with your life. Dont you have anything better to do? I am the first to admit that flex needs some work. But, instead of just bitching like I am sure thats all you did while at flex. I talk to managemen and let them know of my frustrations. I have been here for almost 4 years and I am still employed. Things are getting better. Especially considering the economic times and all of our brothers and sisters out of work. Its alot better to pay your bills with a check from flex then welfare or Target. Get a life flexpilot and be happy that you are now getting everything you wanted.

 

[LAZYB]

"Beware the lollipop of mediocrity. Lick once and you suck forever."
- Anonymous

"Hope is the denial of reality."
- Anonymous

"This is a test. This is only a test. Had it been an actual job, you would have received raises, promotions, and other signs of appreciation."
- Anonymous

 

[flexlrpilot357]

Flexpilot:

This comment provides a lot of insight into the reasons for your rambling tirade:

"They did me wrong on my PRIA and I take every oppurtunity to let others know how it is....was."

We have a victim here, ladies and gentlemen! Sounds like Flexpilot has some "issues".

 

[Mach92]

The "training contract" was tossed out in court in Dallas last month. Guess what? I won !!!! Flexjet tryed so many strong arm things but in the end they lost. So if they make you sign anything its worthless. I have to take up a few issues with anyone who says its great there. Why do you think Flexjet went from Hilton, Marriott, Embassy suites To Holiday Inn express, Ramada and other rat hotels. Dunno but one day I opened my mail and look the CLC truckers card was there.

 

[Mach92]

The "training contract" was tossed out in court in Dallas last month. Guess what? I won !!!! Flexjet tryed so many strong arm things but in the end they lost. So if they make you sign anything its worthless. The big check they gave me was nice

 

[vixin]

What NJA does not require one of these worthless contracts? Almost everyone knows they are worthless regaurdless if it is from FlexJet, Options or even the great NJA. And just how did flex force you to sign this contract? Did they use strong arm tactics? Now back to reality. I will admit the hotels do suck about 50% of the time. Management has ALOT to learn about taking care of its people. It would be nice to make more money,work less days and have more bases. Do I think management even cares, sometimes NO sometimes yes, but it is a job until I am able to move on. Let me ask you this. What has NJA done for you the last 1 1/2 years? How is that contract coming. I know, I know "at least we have a contract". I have heard it to many times to even care. I am so sick of hearing my dad can beat your dad. Be happy we are working and lets hope things improve for everyone!! We all should be making more for the work we do.

 

[Mach92]

My man VIXIN: What has NJA done for me? 1. Im happy when I go to work. 2. I was able to get a captains bid in the X as a new hire 3. I stay in nice hotels and fly a great plane. 4. I have a union, good or bad I have some protection. 5. Growth vs parking Lear 31's and Lear 60's. 6. Pay is time with the company and NOT time in seat like flexjet. 7. The contract is what it is. I took a pay cut to fly here and its my best move ever. 8. Saftey if your tired here done shut it down no questions. At flexjet after a 1:30am show in TEB they tried to run us 14hrs the capt said no (after 10 hours) we were beat!!.Next call was both of you are comming to Dallas to discuss why you dint properly rest yourself. Need I go on and on. Lets not forget the "trouble makers" or union supporters Flexjet fired after 9-11. If your happy good for you!! I was not and left! Have a merry X-mas

 

[vixin]

I never said nor did I ask what NJA does for you. Do you want to know why? I DO NOT CARE!!!!!!!!! We have all heard it 100 times. I am glad you are happy I hope all of us get the warm and fuzzy feeling. Why cant you people just accept the fact that you are out of here? As far as a 1:30 am wake up call and then being asked to fly 14 hours I find that very hard to believe. Was your show before 4:00am Dallas time? Wich by the way I think is stupid. If it did happen then that sucks also. I never said nor will I ever say this is the best place on the planet to work. Do I hear NJA complain you bet, alot!! We all do. It comes with the pilots lic. I think. Is flex a good place to work until one can find employment elsewhere or gets called back? YES I DO!!! Could this be a good company? Yes, but some cleaning needs to be done in the Princeton. Would I like to see a Union on the property? Yes, but not really the teamsters. All in all I am glad you found your happiness. I wish you the best of luck and happy flying.

 

[vixin]

I meant what has NJA done with the contract not what have they done to make your life better by leaving flex. I was strictly talking about the contract. By the way I hope you guys get what you are asking for. Not because I think flex will match it. We all know they wont.HAHA!! But because you and we, deserve to be treated better.

 

[Just Peachy]

flex......

Hey Mach 92........
Glad to hear you beat Bombardier at thier own game. I love it ! I love it !...
If more pilots stood up like that, there would be less crap handed down from above.

Did you get punitive damages ??

 

[PilotGuy]

Training Contract

You talk about the training contract as if you are forced to sign it, you don't have to take the job if you don't want to. Would you be so happy if the Teamsters or NJA did not honor their contract as you apparently did at Flexjet. By the way, Flexjet has been great to me. I've worked here for almost 6 years and will make over $100,000.00 this year with very little overtime.

You seem to be having a hard time coming to terms with the fact that you are not a man of your word.

 

[NJA Capt]

Let me ask you this. What has NJA done for you the last 1 1/2 years?

I never said nor did I ask what NJA does for you.

??????????

And I thought I had a short attention span.

 

[vixin]

Obviously you have a hard time reading the next post. But thats ok we all have those days. That was directed towards the contract not what improved his ideas for a better quality of life.

Pilotguy:
Dont you think you are in a better position then most at flex? Do you think management is being fair to our long time FO's? I can not blame the others for leaving if it has made things better for them. You say flex has treated you right, but you are not the norm here. Nor will most of us see that kind of sentiment for sometime. I know you will say you have paid your dues at flex. Look at how much our FO's are paying!! With no light at the end of the tunnel.

 

[vixin]

NJA:
You NJA guys are soooo funny! You are so quick to pounce on others. I wish all the fractionals all the best!! We all need things to improve.

 

[NJA Capt]

NJA:
You NJA guys are soooo funny! You are so quick to pounce on others. I wish all the fractionals all the best!! We all need things to improve.

Lighten up Francis.

If I recall, you are the one that cast the first stone. Are you not?

However, if you want to quip, the UNION (note the difference in terminology) has done quite a few things for us in the last few years. More than I care to go into. But, it does include increasing 7/7 schedules to all fleets. Improving med coverage, increasing gateways from 3 to 25. And none of them affect you at all.

I like my job, you like yours. I see no problem here.

 

[LEDSLEDDRVR]

FLEXJET

Lighten up Francis. (-Nicolas Cage, Firebirds)


Ahhhhhhhhhhh no actually it was "STRIPS" SGT HULKA.

"HOW ABOUT SOME STRAWBERRY BUBBLE GUM" was Mr. Copola aka Nicolas Gage

 

[PilotGuy]

Flexjet

To vixin,

I understand your feelings about Flex but I believe we all had a choice when offered the job. For me it was a pay cut and I had to move to Dallas from Memphis (1997). But I wanted to fly some new equipment, have a better schedule, and better long term benefits than I had. I was the 80th something pilot that Flex had hired and thought that they would never hire another person. I was wrong and now am sitting in the top 10% of our seniority list. I'm just a simple guy doing a simple job for a company that I like with people that I love.

I have a lot of friends that have been with airlines for between 1 and 14 years and many of them are being furloughed families and all looking at Christmas with no income our unemployment checks.

So, I am happy to be here, I'm glad I came here when I did, and I wish all of us. No matter who you work for, all the luck in the world that we keep these jobs and they get better in the future.

 

[vixin]

Very well stated pilot guy I hope we will fly together some day.

 

[Semore Butts]

Everything is a choice

Vixin is right, the 6th year guy has no clue what the first year guy has to look forward too. The question is "will the first year guy upgrade in 6 years"?
I was at Flex for just shy of 3 years. Loved the pilots, loved the aircraft, hated the way the hotels went down hill, and am still bewildered by which way management is taking the company.
The guy that "took" my seniority number still has no clue when he will upgrade. When I walked into INDOC at Netjets the first 2 people I say were "Ex-Flex". One junior to me, and the other was #14 on the seniority list at Flex.
I do make more money then I did at Flex because I'm getting Cpt's pay. Yes a Flex Cpt makes more then a Netjets Cpt (on straight time). I'm sure that when our contract comes through, we will "leapfrog" over Flex on the Cpt's pay. But hey! That's good!
As flexlr357 will tell you, I'm just a bitter ex-airline guy with issues. We'll, I got better 357, and you helped!
Don't be to hard on Mach 92, after all, he's been where your at, and now he's somewhere else. He truly can compare.
There are alot of ex-flex pilots here at Netjets. I think it would be pretty hard to convince a person of average intelligence that we are all a bunch of losers and whiners.
In the end we are all in the same industry. What happens good for one of us should ultimately "trickle down" to the rest.
So in closing, as an ex-flex senior F.O. who had a ball flying with you guys, have a Merry Christmas. For those who would wish to run my post down, Ah go %&*% yourself, and you have a Merry Christmas too!