Being an Army Reserve Officer before securing employment.

[brisc22]

Hi all,

I am mid way through hour building and atpl theory.

I anticipate I’ll be finish in c. 12 months.

The question I have is if I were to become an army reservist before applying to the airlines would it jeopardise my chances of being selected by any airline or does it depend on airline to airline.

I want to get on with life a little bit… it’s taken me long enough to get into this position with the finish line insight. Of course, I am happy to be patient if it will make me overlooked over another applicant.

would be great to hear the thoughts of those in the industry already.

thanks

E

[L1011effoh]

Hi E,

I think it’s likely to be well received by airlines for a few reasons:

1. Evidence of desirable personal qualities, such as turnout, punctuality, teamwork etc
2. ‘Real life’ experience rather than trying to make stuff sound good on your CV/Linkedin.
3. Many airline pilots are ex-military, so you will fit in well.

Also check out individual airlines’ policies, one regional airline used to have a reserve Major as Flt Crew Manager. Some airlines make a big thing of their status under the Reserve Forces Employers Recognition Scheme, and depending on how many reservists/reserve-friendly policies etc they had, the airline could get Gold status. So if you add that to your research before applying, you will probably find out which airlines are good for reservists. I don’t think it will be a problem and I think it will help you. As well as that Flt Crew Manager, I have personally known 2 other reservists, and it hasn’t done them any harm, in fact probably the opposite.

I say go for it and good luck with the fATPL and flying training.

R
(ex-mil and 25+ years civvie flying)
edited for grammar

[BoeingBoy]

I would agree with L1011 that it will be a bonus to your career. However, the one thing to bear in mind is that your roster will be issued with little if any regard for your desire for time off to attend reserve activities. Certainly in the early part of your career and later depending on seniority. So long as you emphasise that you understand this and that the airline comes first there's no reason why you should not enjoy your endeavour. The moment you start to demand time off to attend training days you become a burden to the operator and then I'm afraid you will find them less tolerant.

[olster]

As an ex recruiter to two airlines I would say any extra string to your bow would be viewed very positively.

[brisc22]

Hi R,

Many thanks for the response.

I thought the same but just wanted to make sure it was not going to negatively impact any applications when time comes.

I will have a read through airlines policies and makes sure i am not missing anything. As others have mentioned about rosters being issued with little care for my personal plans and i'll need to be certain that the reserve training does not interfere with flying.

I am already in contact with my local afco and will discuss it further with them too.

Thanks again for the advice and the well wishes.

E