So you want to be a pilot for one of the major U.S. airlines, such as American, United, Delta, Continental or U.S. Airways, but are unsure how to get hired?
All airlines have minimum hiring requirements applicants must meet in order to be considered for an interview. However, typically the major airlines have the most rigorous requirements, and regional and some discount airlines have lower requirements, such as lower minimum required flight hours. It is important to check the specific requirements for all airlines you are interested in flying for.
To get an opportunity to be hired by a major U.S. airline, you will need at the minimum:
1. FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multli-engine and Instrument ratings (without limitations).
2. Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
3. Current FE Turbojet Rating or written (FEX or Basic/turbojet).
4. Minimum of twenty-three (23)years of age.
5. Flight experience required: 1,500 hours total time in airplanes, 1,000 hours turbine in airplanes, 1,000 to 1,500 hours in turbine aircraft as Pilot In Command (PIC is defined as Aircraft Commander of record, not simply the sole manipulator of the controls), recency of flight experience will also be considered.
6. Possession of a current FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
7. Passing an FAA mandated drug test.
8. High school diploma or GED is required. Bachelor's Degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university is preferred.
9. At least three Letters of Recommendation from any individuals who can attest to the pilot's flying skills, through observation over a sustained period of time.