Regional air carriers are on a well-documented pilot hiring binge, creating “one of the most exciting times ever” for aspiring airline pilots, says Captain LaMar Haugaard, director of pilot development, and chief pilot at Horizon Air. But recruiters remain selective, weighing candidates’ training backgrounds, flight experience, and even non-pilot qualifications, Haugaard says. Trainees should keep these hiring preferences in mind as they build hours toward the qualifications they need to fly for the airlines.
The Ideal Pilot Candidate: What Regional Airline Recruiters Want Most
Key Takeaways:
- Regional airlines are actively hiring pilots but remain selective, prioritizing specific flight experience and training methodologies.
- Recruiters highly value applicants who are Certified Flight Instructors (especially in instrument and multi-engine roles) and those from standardized, crew-style training programs due to better preparation and lower training non-completion rates.
- Key flight experience requirements include commercial, instrument, and multi-engine ratings, working towards an ATP certificate, and practical experience like Part 135 cargo operations.
- Beyond flying skills, airlines look for professional conduct (grooming, social media), a strong work ethic, adaptability, community involvement, and prefer candidates with a college degree.
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