It's been just over two years since I made the leap from active duty in the Air Force to working as an airline pilot, and I wanted to share my experience. In this blog, I'll discuss whether the grass is truly greener, offer some lessons learned, and provide tips I wish I'd known beforehand.
Is the Grass Greener on the Other Side?
The short answer is yes. The transition has been a positive one, and I'd encourage anyone considering the jump to talk to those who have already done it. The biggest difference? You're treated like an adult. The airline industry respects your autonomy and incentivizes you to act in your own best interest. Unlike the Air Force, where you might feel captive until your time is done, the airline treats you as a valued member who has choices.
The Separation Process
My separation was quick. I was in an experimental squadron that kept getting strung along, and after my official school push was disregarded, I decided it was time to leave. If you're considering separating, start working on your Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification as soon as possible, even if you're not sure you'll leave the military. The ATP process is time-consuming, and I had to race to complete it after deciding to separate.
The Nightmare of the Application Process
The application process to become an airline pilot is brutal. It's essentially your entire life in various formats for different airlines, and every airline has its own way of doing things. Once you get through it, the training begins—a "drinking from a fire hose" experience that transforms you into an airline pilot.
The Training Experience
Training is intense, and the first time you actually fly the airplane is with paying passengers on board. All your training happens in a simulator, which can be a shock to those coming from a military background. The biggest hurdle is understanding the aircraft's systems and flows. Airline training focuses heavily on flow patterns rather than checklists, which is a significant adjustment from military procedures.
On the Job: Operational Experience and Probation
After training, you enter the Operational Experience (OE) phase, where you'll fly your first trips with a Line Check Airman (LCA). The first year, you're still on probation, meaning the company can let you go more easily. During this time, it's crucial to keep learning and improving. Once you pass your probation, you become a fully integrated member of the airline, able to vote on contracts and enjoy the full benefits of the job.
Living Close to Your Domicile: A Key Decision
One of the biggest tips I can offer is to live close to your domicile (home base). Commuting is a nightmare, especially if you're on reserve duty, where you need to be ready to fly at a moment's notice. Living close allows you to pick up premium trips that can significantly boost your income.
The Perks and Downsides of Airline Life
The perks of being an airline pilot are incredible. The ability to fly anywhere at a moment's notice feels almost illegal. However, there are downsides, especially if you're used to the camaraderie of a military squadron. The airline industry can feel impersonal, and the flying is often straight and level, lacking the excitement of military aviation.
Final Thoughts
Despite the challenges, I can confidently say the grass is greener. The autonomy, the pay (which improves significantly after the first year), and the flexibility make this career worth it. While I miss the camaraderie and the thrill of military flying, I've never regretted my decision to switch to the airlines.
If you're thinking about making the jump, do it. Just be prepared for a different kind of flying and a different work environment. And if you still need that adrenaline rush, consider staying in the Guard or Reserves as an outlet.
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