Major vs Regional Dilemma

[BoilerUP]

Boilerup - I am going to stir the pot on this a little bit. Someone who is military trainined will meet and exceed any 121 flying task that they are handed. That is all I am going to say about that. You obviously don't know what we really do.

You are taking one part of my statement out of context. There is nothing magical to 121 flying, and I have absolutely ZERO doubt as to the high skill and professionalism of a military aviator. However, many people who have toughed it out in the civilian world will have no sympathy for a military pilot who doesn't get that highly desired major job right away, especially if they had to slug it out in crappy equipment in crappy weather as the PIC. That is the point I was trying to make without inciting a civvy vs. military flamewar, which has occurred on this board in the past.

I'm coming from the civilian world into the military world soon, and yes, I DO have alot of learning to do. I'm fortunate I have many people's advice to draw from in making my transition (including this board), and I hope that some of my insight may be useful to somebody going the other way.

Regards...

 

[Snake]

Boiler Up;

I agree. Having flown both civilian and military, I would have to say for the most part that Military pilots are better trained and mentaly equiped to handle anything the airlines have to offer. A civilian pilot fresh out of college and with a regional as a new hire does fly nice equipment and is trained in the state of the sims, but the pressure a military pilot faces is far more intense than that of a civilian anyday. Most civilians have not been grounded for being unable to answer a BOLD FACE item correctly. I am not trying to degrade anyone, just stating what I have seen. Military instructors are better trained than "Geir" from Norway here to "Tish you how to fly the ensturments".

 

[viking737]

Military instructors are better trained than "Geir" from Norway here to "Tish you how to fly the ensturments".


So what is it you have against Norwegian pilots, then?

 

[Steeler Fan]

Not flying looks a lot worse than going from a nice place to the place you want to be. Provided you sell yourself well in the interview the Regeonal flying will be a plus that will give you an edge vs the other Mil guys who are off for a year or more.

Great point!

Even if your last assignment is a desk or a non-flying remote to Korea or Iraq, find a way to fly, evn if it means renting time while on leave.

Thanks for your patriotic service and happy hunting.

 

[Steeler Fan]

Stay in the reserve and get a job that has nothing to do with the airlines-major or reg. You will not regret it.

Are you sure you're not former military and former furloughee? If both your civilian job and your ANG/AFRES unit are close to the house, then it sounds like a great plan of attack!

trip is on to something. Being an airline pilot is not the ultimate goal for you, taking care of your family is. Keep all your options open.

 

[Steeler Fan]

I am pretty sure that if he retires he can't get an ANG/Reserve job and if he already has the points for an AD retirement the ANG/Reserves won't take him because they will have to pay it instaed of AD.

I think he's at the end of his UPT commitment. (vs retirement) Creamer, is that accurate?

 

[Creamer]

I think he's at the end of his UPT commitment. (vs retirement) Creamer, is that accurate?

Yes it is. I've got 14 years in since I was late rated. My last 6 years would most likely be behind a desk with little to no flying (It has already begun). The Air Force needs good folks like that, but I know that is not where my talents or family interests lie. I would also move every 2-3 years further destabilizing my family life. I believe it is in the best interests of my wife and kids to stay put in one area and offer them stability. That could happen if I get hired by a solid major. It is a gamble, but one I've prepared for. I just wish it would happen a little quicker......hence the interim regional job question. It is just not in my nature to work for a company for only a short time and then quit when something better comes along. You have taught me that it is common practice and I'll learn to accept it until the big fish bites and then be loyal to the death!

I want to say that the Air Force has been great to me and I have never regretted joining. I would recommend it to anyone dreaming of a bright future!

Great advice from everyone! Thanks.