Options after leaving the military with 1400 hours

Airline Pilot Questions & Answers
1

Hi all, I’m currently active duty military (EA-18G pilot) looking to get out in Janurary 2022 and am projecting that I’ll have 1400 (+/- 25 maybe) total flight hours by then…so about 100 hours short of the magic 1500 required for an unrestricted ATP.

My question: would any of the majors look at a guy who has an R-ATP but could get that “R” removed in just the first month or two of flying (based on the 75 hours/mo number I’ve seen thrown around) or am I destined to start at a regional? Also wondering if the current state of the industry changes the answer at all.

A big reason I’m trying to figure this out is because I’m looking at getting my ATP on my own but if I’ll have to start at a regional anyway, I understand that they’d pay for that. So trying to save some money (GI bill doesn’t cover flights, lodging etc) and two weeks of leave if it’s not going to buy me anything.

Sorry for the long-ish question, appreciate any feedback!

2

Devin,

You could of course apply but frankly from what I’ve seen your chances are slim. While we all respect and appreciate your service there are hundreds of Regional Capts with 4 times your flight time and years of experience working as airline pilots. Frankly it’s a much easier transition.

While it’s possible I wouldn’t get my hopes up and I’d plan on a few years at a Regional first.

Adam

3

Debin,

I would plan on spending several years at a regional airline. Most of the military pilots that I fly with had significantly more flight time when they were hired on at the majors. I would save your money.

Chris

4

Ok thanks for the feedback gents. Appreciate your insight and time!

-Devin