Regarding the applications to airlines to build up a history....I have 600 hours and people ask me why i sent applications to airlines because they will not even look at me. My explanation is simple...when I do have the hours they will already know me and know that I am keen. Enthusiasm is the key to this industry, even when you don't have the required experience.
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"if there is no peril in the fight, there is no glory in the triumph"