Need info about Hawaiian Air

[RRF985]

Hello. I'm going to be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical as a first year student in 4 weeks. I'll be working toward a career as an airline pilot obviously. My goal, eventually, is to fly for Hawaiian Airlines. What I am wondering is how hard is it currently to get on board with Hawaiian. I've looked at the requirements but I'm also wondering if there is something special they look for in the hiring process besides the basics. I realize I won't be hired right after graduation in 4 years and that I'll have to get hours elsewhere first. Is there a certain route through different airlines I can take to hopoefully be hired? If any of you that work for Hawaiian could provide me some information that would be great. Thanks.

 

[dash8driver]

currently its really hard as they have 90-something pilots on furlough (i think thats the approx number). by the time you get out of school they will be turned around and doing well. you can build your flight time by instructing, flying cargo, or flying for a commuter. the way the industry is these days, you never know whats gonna happen or who's gonna be around in 4 years.

best advice, focus on your schooling and worry about where you're gonna work when it gets closer.

what campus are you going to?

 

[RRF985]

I'll be attending the Prescott, AZ campus. I'm very excited since I've wanted to be a pilot since 7th grade. Also, thanks for your input.

 

[HAL]

RRF985,

First, congrats on going to ERAU. Study hard, and work on the basics for the next four years. You'll have enough to worry about at school without aiming for just one specific airline.

However, once you get out and are trying to get on with HA, there are two factors besides the minimum required qualifications you'll need. The first is a good, relaxed, professional attitude; there are not nearly as many Type A personalities at HA as I've seen at other airlines. And second (and most difficult) is a recommendation from a current HA pilot. I know it's difficult, but it's important. Good luck!

HAL

 

[RRF985]

Thanks for the reply. It's great to hear from someone that works for the airline. I do plan to study and do my best at school since I'll finally be working toward my career.

For the professional attitude part, I always have a positive, professional attitude. I'm working at a department store currently and I've had customers tell me how professional and friendly I am so I've got that part covered. I do know what you mean about HA not having as many good personalities as other airlines. I've noticed that the few times I've flown with them that other airlines are better.

Getting a recommendation from an HA pilot seems extremely difficult. I hope that I'll be able to get one but as of now I know nobody that works for airlines. Hopefully that will change but I'll work on it when the time comes.

Again, thanks for the great information. I can't wait to get to ERAU!!

 

[Sleepyhead]

You might want to consider going to Island Air when you graduate. Working there you will be able to make contacts.
The down side is you will not get the same experience that you would working for a regional on the mainland. (no winter weather, high traffic hubs etc.)

Fours years is a long time in this industry, take a look at how things are in your last year and that will help guide your path. (in the last 4 years I have worked at 4 different airlines!)