Originally Posted by
737_Operator
Hi everyone, just after some career advice from a mix of people with different experience as I don't know many ex or current long haul people. I know people will tell me it all depends what I want out of life and a career but at this stage I'm not sure exactly what at I want and I want to think closely about the options I am considering.
I am a current 737 FO with about 1200hrs on type, flying for J2 at a regional base. I feel well treated by the company and the lifestyle is working for me as a 20 something year old with no children yet. I will soon have the opportunity to leave if I want to, or I could stay and in 4-6 years time be looking at a command here. If I did that I'd like to look into training and various other roles in the future to keep the job interesting although I know that will add lifestyle complications too.
If I leave, the only realistic options in the UK are BA or VA. I wouldn't move to another SH operator as I'd rather stay where I am. Moving to either LH operator would probably mean living closer to Heathrow as I currently enjoy a 15 minute commute into work and a long commute could be a lifestyle issue, although I'm keen to hear the thoughts of those who work out of LHR. Another option is the ME but on the whole it seems that is not a long term career option for most. I do like the idea of seeing the world and flying the big machines but I wonder what living out a suitcase would actually be like in the long run, and how it would affect family life.
For me this boils down to, would I be missing out if I don't try to make a LH move? If so, I understand the earlier I move the better it will be eventually. Or is it a case of the grass is not always greener and a SH career, getting an early command and doing different roles after that also a good career option? I'd be grateful for views from people with either SH or LH experience and what they have gotten out of their careers.
Very clear and honest picture 😉👍.
Ive done ACMI 737 OPS.
Now I fly the Queen also ACMI. Few weeks on, few weeks off.
This is not made for everyone. It is sometimes tough.
I just have a 1 month old baby son.
Right now I am a few weeks away from home. That is not easy as I cannot support my better half at home with the baby.
But when I come home, Im a full 2 weeks at home.
On the flip side. ACMI LH is a great type of OPS. Many different Destinations. It changes also a lot. Everytime new destinations are added.
The layovers are on a regular basis a few days, so you actually have the opportunity to explore.
I just got back from 5 days Chicago. Played a few rounds of golf 😄👍.
With Major Carriers, you usually have only 24 hrs or if you are lucky 48 hrs layovers.
ME, well you have to like it. Im in the ME a lot. That lifestyle there would be nothing for me.
If being not far away from home and UK is your home, then BA or VA are the best options.
You are still young, but in your age it is of utmost importance to make up your mind. Seniority is holy.
I was kinda to old to go to a Major carrier. Im happy where I am and will stay here, but if I were your age, I would go for a shot at BA and or VA. Especially, BA would be a good option. You can bid for LH and if you dont like it, you can go back to SH.
Otherwise, stay at J2. I heard good stories about that company and as you mentioned yourself, you get treated respectfully. That is RARE in our business.
Good luck 😉✈️