Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the future?

Mattio

Mattio

Well-Known Member
While I would like to go the career CFI route (chief, etc.) if all the factors are feasible, it's nice to know my options.

I have about 2700 hours at the time including 1100 SIC on large turboprops and I'm CFI'ing right now. If I were to get a job where I was getting PIC time on a Pilatus or Caravan, do you think it would help me get a job at a major in a future economy?

Appreciate any input
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

I have a general feeling that the industry will get better over the next 3 to 5 years and that we may even see a hiring frenzy again like the one before. A lot of people may disagree with me but thats the nature of these forums. I could be wrong however, no one can predict the future exactly we could get nuked by Iran tommorrow, a comet might hit, or another economic crash could freeze everything in aviation again.

That said, I have a lot of Pilatus time and unless your getting into another single engine turboprop the time doesn't go to far, even if its PIC. The majors right now really want to see 1000 twin turbojet/prop PIC command time under part 121. I hate to say it thats just a minimum, word is Delta has about 5K apps on file right now some with probably 4 or 5,000 turbine PIC.

As corny as it is to need so much time to sit in the right seat of an MD-80 or 757 I think your best bet is probably to go to a company like Colgan that has a quicker upgrade time, get your 1000+ turbine 121 PIC and then throw your hat in.

Just one guy's opinion.:D
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

Already tried the Colgan thing. Wasn't having it.

While the end goal is important, my current lifestyle matters too. I was trying to think of a way I could stay in the area (MA) and be based within an hour and get some sort of helpful experience.

Maybe my best bet with the type of experience I have would be to fall into some sort of corporate gig with a quick upgrade.

I should've mentioned I'd be interested in a place like JetBlue and I reckon they would have lower minimums than Delta and the like once things pick up.

But, as we all know, everything is always very subject to change in the industry.
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

Mattio said:
Already tried the Colgan thing. Wasn't having it.

While the end goal is important, my current lifestyle matters too. I was trying to think of a way I could stay in the area (MA) and be based within an hour and get some sort of helpful experience.

Maybe my best bet with the type of experience I have would be to fall into some sort of corporate gig with a quick upgrade.

I should've mentioned I'd be interested in a place like JetBlue and I reckon they would have lower minimums than Delta and the like once things pick up.

But, as we all know, everything is always very subject to change in the industry.
Click to expand...

I'm pretty sure Delta has one of the most attainable minimums in the industry. In fact it looks like you qualify right now. Granted you have a 4 year degree. How realistic these minimums are.... I don't know.

Delta Pilot Basics
It’s time for your pre-flight check. Delta Air Lines is looking for pilot candidates who meet our high standards of aviator skills, safety, professionalism, and customer focus. If you are interested in joining our team of professional pilots, you may apply or update your existing application via AirlineApps.com.

General Requirements

At least 21 years of age
Graduate of a four-year degree program from a college or university accredited by a recognized accredited organization
Degrees obtained from a non-U.S. institution must be evaluated for equivalency to U.S. degrees by a member organization of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)
Postgraduate education will be given favorable consideration.
Current passport or other travel documents enabling the bearer to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. (multiple reentry status) and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. (possess proper working documents)

FAA Requirements

FAA commercial fixed-wing pilot license with an instrument rating
Current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Passing score on FAA ATP written exam preferred

Flight Time Requirements

Minimum of 1,200 hours of total documented flight time
Minimum of 1,000 hours of fixed wing turboprop or turbofan time

When evaluating the flight time of applicants meeting the basic qualifications, consideration will be given to, among other things, quality, quantity, recency, and verifiability of training; complexity of aircraft flown; types of flight operations; and hours flown as PIC in turbine powered aircraft. Applicants invited to interview must provide appropriate documentation of all flight hours.
Other
FCC Radiotelephone Operator's Permit (RP)
DOT required pre-employment drug test and a medical exam administered by Delta
TSA required fingerprint based Criminal History Records Check and a Delta background check
Applications for employment as a Delta pilot must be submitted through AirlineApps.com. Applications for Delta pilot positions may be submitted free of charge, though a fee may be charged if you wish to join AirlineApps as a member for added features. If you are already a member of the AirlineApps system, sign in to your account and add Delta to your target listing.
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

I know someone who went from a caravan to southwest. But he had time in the military (rotor though).
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

It's possible, but I don't know how competitive you'd be in today's (or even tomorrow's) market with the tons of CRJ CAs with multi-TPIC. You could probably do it, but it would be all about who you knew and what their connections are.
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

Word. It's nice just to know that there'd be a glimmer of hope for the option to get on with a decent company without bending over QOL-wise for the next 4+ years. Who knows, maybe some start up will try basing B1900's or something in Boston again once the economy improves. That would be cool.
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

Have you looked at flying a Be-99 for wiggins or the like? Fastest way to pick up 1000+ multi turbine. However the majors will likely opt for the folks with 121 PIC first.
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

Mattio said:
While I would like to go the career CFI route (chief, etc.) if all the factors are feasible, it's nice to know my options.

I have about 2700 hours at the time including 1100 SIC on large turboprops and I'm CFI'ing right now. If I were to get a job where I was getting PIC time on a Pilatus or Caravan, do you think it would help me get a job at a major in a future economy?

Appreciate any input
Click to expand...

No. Do they accept pilots with very little MEL time? Yes, but almost all (if not all), will have military jet time. Mind you, I'm not talking about hiring that went on in the 1960s.
You will need to build MEL time, preferably with a 125/135/121 carrier. Although I know of part 91 jet pilots who have been hired, they do prefer prior part 119 flying.
Granted, hiring will improve in the future. But based upon what you have written and the quality of their potential hiring pool I don't think the majors will give you the time of day.
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

ppragman said:
I'm strongly considering trying to do something like that.
Click to expand...

While it did happen in the past, I would not view it as a possiblity in the future.

This hapened back in the mid 90s when SWA was a low paying LCC and only the wierdos who bought Herb's cool-aid wanted to fly there. Why on earth would you go someplace with no widebodys and only domestic routes, when you could go to United? What do you mean you have to pay for your 737 type? They are just dragging the industry down.

Now the situiation has changed drasticly. SWA and the big freight operators are the best paying jobs out there, and there are hundreds of guys who will gladly run over their own mothers to work there.

Having 1000 hours in a Caravan does check off the 1000 TPIC box on the application, but you aren't going to be competitive without another thousand hours in a RJ. The upside is you can go to a regional and not worry about upgrading, just get a couple years of RJ time under your belt and apply.
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

There is no clear answer, and I agree a regional offers pay.

But you have to look at your competition too, 1000 TPIC in a multi turboprop or jet under Part 121 is really like the bare competitive minimum to get in with Delta, at least right now.

If you find a better way than going through a regional... let me know! :beer:
 
Re: Turbine-single PIC + Turbine-multi SIC= Major in the fut

Decisions. Decisions.

It probably doesn't make a difference but I forgot to mention that SIC time was 121. Here's to meeting connections.....
 
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