Why Didn't I Start My Logbook Sooner?

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!