From what I’m reading looks like Adam has made a pretty nice career out of flying in Hawaii.
I got accepted into the Masters program at UH to continue my studying because I would like to become a part time college lecturer on my spare time between schedules. I feel like I’m probably going to get flak for saying I wanna do this, but It’s what I wish to do and a back up plan.
Anyway, I wanted to see if you guys know anything about CFI opportunities and if they are a lot? I would instruct while in school or since my 1500 is going to be up possibly fly regional but I don’t know much about the regionals in Hawaii and if there are any. My dream life would be fly for Hawaiian airlines or Corporate and be a part time professor at UH. Any ideas how to get there?
No flak from me but know my cushy schedule has come from years of working my way up. Further my schedule is a result of me simply wanting max days off (but not really caring which days I get) and the airline being properly staffed (which changes constantly). What I’m saying is while I’m always thinking I should be doing something “on the side”, logistically that’s easier said then done, particularly something like teaching which requires a set schedule (hence my food truck thoughts).
As for instructor jobs here I really couldn’t say but I have to figure with a small number of flight schools and a small population I can’t imagine there’s that many opportunities for instructors but I could be wrong. As for Regional/time building jobs most local pilots here fly Caravans for Mokulele around the islands (they’ll hire with as little as 500hrs but don’t fly much) and Ohana who requires 1500. There’s also Aloha Cargo and TransAir. Regardless before Hawaiian will consider hiring you they’ll want you to do some actual mainland Regional flying.
Again what I’m saying is it’ll be quite a few years before you’re in a position where you can do both but it definitely can happen.
I understand what you mean about the scheduling. I appreciate the advice.
From your knowledge how competitive is it to get into Hawaiian Airlines. I obviously have some years before getting there, but when the time comes.
I get asked that question often and honestly there’s no single thing they’re looking for nor even a pattern to our hiring but there do seem to be a couple of constants.
First they really like to see some connection to the islands. This is not discrimination it’s simply that Hawaiians know Hawaii. They know what it is and what it isn’t and they’re far less likely to pack up after a year due to “island fever”.
Second they def want to see some mainland jet time. We fly to Asia, Australia and the mainland and they want to know their pilots have experience outside of the state.
Beyond that they simply want the intangible vibe that you’ll “fit” with the culture.
Long time lurker, first time poster. Was prior Navy and lived in Kapolei for almost 12 years. Left a year ago to pursue a 121 opportunity on the mainland and am currently a regional FO based in Phoenix and just accepted an offer with Ohana. Ultimate goal is Hawaiian so am trying to decide on taking my chances and applying to Hawaiian when the next window opens or using the guaranteed interview through Ohana. Any thoughts/recommendations? Also, most people consider going from turbofan to turboprop a downgrade and say that may affect me in the future, but I’m of the opinion that 121 time is just that, 121 time and ultimately doesn’t matter as long as you meet minimums. However, am just curious as to your opinion on that?
I don’t know how much time you have, but honestly with your military experience, your time in Hawaii and with some mainland 121 experience, you shouldn’t have any problem getting an interview with Hawaiian. The Ohana route can’t hurt but if you’d meet the mins for Hawaiian, I’d apply already.