More Tips on Getting An Airline Job

Did you know that 9,000 pilots were hired to new positions in 2004, according to AIR, Inc?  Job opportunities for pilots are definitely on the rise.

How to get hired? Certainly you need the basic certificates and ratings.  If you can then build your hours by working as a flight instructor, that's a real advantage, so get your CFI and CFII.  Many professional courses will include those ratings as part of their training. Phoenix East Aviation gives priority to its graduates in hiring flight instructors; in fact, PEA has been able to IMMEDIATELY hire any qualified grad who wants to instruct.  You can then build hours toward ATPL requirements -- and earn money and gain experience at the same time. 

If you want to work for a major U.S. airline, it is advised to also get a your Bachelor's Degree, as at this time many airlines require it.  And a shortcut currently to some of the U.S. regional airlines is approximately 600-700 flight hours plus a type rating in the aircraft that airline flies. Of course, requirements differ somewhat by airlines -- and can change over time -- so do your research.  The more you know about the hiring process at those airlines you are applying to, the better your chances of early success.

Sometimes pilots focus on applying to only one or two airlines; you reduce your odds of being hired by doing that.  You should be applying to at least 10 or 12 at any given time, according to Kit Darby, President of AIR, Inc.  And if you know a pilot working for any airline you're applying to, especially one who will vouch for your professionalism, ask him or her to write a letter of recommendation to the airline.  This letter should contain how long he has known you, in what capacity, and attest to your personal integrity as well as your skills as a pilot, if possible.  Some airlines even have a specific form to use for employees to write recommendations.  Use such a form, if it's available.  And it doesn't have to be a senior captain recommending you.  Even if your recommending friend is a new hire (maybe a former instructor of yours at Phoenix East?), he or she has already proven they are the kind of people that airline wants.