Jet OUT posted a new civilian job opportunity.
Hiring PICs at Milwaukee, DRW, Fort Lauderdale, and commuter positions across all markets.
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7465123484826771456/
As with most things in aviation, airline hiring is subject to the laws of "luck and timing". As a military pilot staring down separation after UPT commitment, you can't control the luck and timing. Tons of Spirit pilots now in the market? No-notice deployment to CENTCOM? All things you can't control.
So control the things you can control. Be as prepared as possible. I was not prepared, especially when it came to my logbook. The USAF keeps records, and keeps records poorly. Gaps in my USAF flying history existed for periods up to a year. It took months for me to collect these records, transcribe them to a single logbook I started, and make it make sense enough for an airline application.
My advice: start now! Even if you are only dabbling or starting out, start logging your own flying NOW! If you want help, there are several companies out there who will provide a logbook for a fee. However you do it, start now!
It’s been a while since an airline shut down - what happens when that pilot pool hits the streets?
It's usually really bad because generally when one airline is suffering, all are. This time is different: Spirit’s 2,000ish pilots are hitting the market as all the majors are actively hiring.
While it might slow the CFI -> regional -> Major transition a little, I think it's still a great time to be in the business. The real bellwether will be Delta Pilots’ contract negotiations - that will really show how hot the labor market is. Stay tuned.
An aviation journey is rarely linear without its bumps, bruises, and course corrections. If you talk to folks way up the seniority list, they will tell their stories of the airline industry in the mid-90's, post 9-11, and then again during the financial collapse of 2008. For purely civilian pilots, it can be a daunting thought of "what-if" something outside my control happens to this career. What if I get furloughed right after being hired? The airlines are at the whim of the consumer and so I would encourage you to consider all the options as you're getting started in your airline career!
Having an ANG or AFRC flying gig can prove to be a life-saver during slower times with the airlines. Once you've mastered your craft in whatever military jet you fly, don't be afraid to pursue the airlines and seek out amazing opportunities. But I would encourage you not to abandon your safety-nets...just in case the unexpected happens.
I feel terribly for the folks who worked at Spirit Airlines. Wishing them well and hope they are able to get back onboard somewhere in a hurry!
https://www.newsweek.com/spirit-airlines-pilot-emotional-farewell-shutdown-11907661
