More on exit options

[tubelo]

AC vs PIC. Different airlines look at PIC differently. Some only consider Aircraft Commander time as PIC (Part 1 definition), but some allow the Part 61 definition, which in your case First Pilot (once NATOPS Qualed) also counts as PIC. Be able to present it both ways and explain any numbers you use. Most Majors specifically state it must be A time, but not all Regionals do.

 

[LJDRVR]

Take a good look at Express Jet. We make over 100 million a year in operating profit, about a 2-year upgrade, (maybe) and if you end up here as a career, the culture is outstanding and the flying is superb.

I'll second what others have said about attempting to keep a hand in the military side of things. In this industry, it is critical that you have either a second skillset or another flying job. In the case of a reserve or guard unit, you're protected in the event the airlines tank again, and if they don't you're building PIC time.

Drop me a line if you have any XJT questions. We have all kinds of ex-mil here, from E-6 NFO's to retired 0-6 Phantom dudes E-3 pilots & goats, airborne rangers, navy helo guys, retired T-6 IP's, Army tank commanders, you name it.

We fly from as far south as Acupulco, to Los Angeles, to Boise, to Hallifax to Bermuda with a lot of stuff in between. The Embraear is an easy, fun jet to fly.

Drop me a line if I can help you out at all.

 

[Resume Writer]

I concur with LJDrvr. Why would you go to Eagle and be an FO for 6 years, gaining no PIC time? I think it puts you in the same boat as you are now.

There are many regionals out there with an upgrade time of less than 6 years. XJT is one of them; Mesa is probably another. I have some friends at Skywest that upgraded in about three years. Do some more research on the many regionals that are out there. Freight is also an option, and you will likely gain PIC time as many of them are single pilot ops.

I really like the calendar plan that someone else posted. It really puts it right in front of you. As Albie said, it can get expensive footing the bill for SIM time, suits, airline flights, etc. The typical hiring process takes about 4-6 weeks with interviews, hiring boards, background checks, etc. I think the six month timeframe that Albie posted is right on the mark.

Great information on this thread!

Kathy

 

[Full of LUV]

Hey guys,

When I mentioned DFW, I meant I'm planning on going the the AirInc job fair there in Jan. Hopefully I'll see some familiar faces.

As for the reserves, I only have one place I'm putting in a package- one of the VP squadrons. I already have a non-flying billet in the squadron to start next month, and I can't really move around the country looking for reserve work. Hopefully I'll get picked up to fly, be even if not, maybe I can get some stick time/sim time anyway. I have many back up plans besides flying for the airlines in case this all doesn't work out.

Thanks for the idea though- flying T-34's or JPATS would be unreal fun. Unfortunately it didn't work out for me.

Toonces,
I don't know where you actually live or plan on living, but I am a VR guy and you should consider applying to a VR C130 unit in either Brunswick, DC, New Orleans, or Pt Magu as they really value ANY multi enging prop experience (PIC or not) as the fleet is obviously not making any C130 pilots anymore. There boards seem to be a little less "crowded" than some of the other units. Also, the G-IV unit in Hawaii is often shortchanged for applicants due to its remote location. All of these units would offer mucho employment (much better than a regional pay wise) with more time off and a rapid upgrade (probably on the order of one year) where you will be well utilized as a PIC. Most unemployed reservists can log near 400 hours annually for the jet guys and probably up to 500 hours for the c130 guys. PM me if you have any other questions.

Happy New Year!

 

[psysicx]

Also check out the C-9 unit at NASNI they are switching to the C-40,and there is the C-40 unit at Fort Worth.

 

[RGC]

thanks for the heads up LJdrvr...

btw i haven't had the time to see if anyone has given a plug for baseops.net for mil jobs, so i'll be glad to do it.....
www.baseops.net

and www.aptap.org has info on their board for guys or gals interested in guard/reserve flying jobs.

mostly air guard jobs on the baseops.net board, but those interested in ARNG jobs or USAR jobs feel free to contact me. I can give you the contacts up at OSAA and USARC Aviation. I'll be retiring from the Army in 6 months so that frees up at least one AGR slot.

well, not the worst first post, but gotta start somewhere. Too many boards, not enough time.

 

[toonces2]

Hey guys,
Thanks so much for the advice and pm's. I sure appreciate it.

I have been very fortunate to land a job working for a coastal engineering company as a marine biologist. The pay is kinda low (comparable to a regional!) but it's the job I've been looking for. So, this is going to take me further out of the cockpit and probably end my flying days for good. I will miss flying some, but I'm very excited about marine biology and coastal management, so I don't have any regrets about my decision to get out and go into a different field.

At any rate, I wish all of you the best of luck that are in the flying business and hope you upgrade quickly. I'll be listening for your name as the Captain on my next vacation!

See ya,
Mike

 

[LJDRVR]

Congratulations Mike!

Doing something you love is what it's all about dude. If you ever miss flying, keep in mind there ought to be a way to combine you biology career with a little bit of part 91 corporate aviating. (Convincing your employer they need to buy a piston single if the mission would be complimented by the addition of an airplane.)

Best of Luck!