The Experience Factor: A Regional Airline View of Pilot Candidate Qualifications

Pilot hiring by the regional airlines has finally begun to rebound from the downturn that followed the events of September 11, 2001. While major airlines have traditionally hired aviators with high-time military flight experience, greater numbers are now being selected from the general aviation population. Regional airlines, in particular, depend on recruitment of less experienced aviators to sustain their rapidly expanding sector of commercial aviation. This study sought to determine the experience factors that regional airline managers consider important to the selection process for new hire pilots. Key administrators at eleven regional airlines were surveyed to identify their current hiring criteria and perceptions of applicant quality. Findings from this study provide useful insights for flight training program development as well as individual applicant preparation.