Getting back into the profession.
 

Hi there

Mid 40's, TC/JAA licences lapsed/expired, last flew April 2006, 900 hrs 737-300 (SE Asia Airline), 1700 TT, resigned for personal reasons.

Assuming I retake the Skill test and IR theory exams (apparently required after 7 years) could I get back into the profession?

Any advice appreciated.

Of course you can.
If you want to stay in europe:
The only question is if your bank account is high enough to pay for your first 500 hrs line training.
Thereafter you will consider yourself lucky if you earn enough money to buy food and pay the rent.

Brgds

I think you stand a fair chance with RYR. Not sure what's the best way to do it (before/after you put you licenses back on track) but there is an email address for their HR on the website...

Re. T&Cs in general in EU...:yuk:

PZ

Unfortunately RYR will regard you as non-typed as the rating has expired and a full course would need to be completed. May be worth looking at Sun Express as they give 9 sims anyway, OK you would get bonded or have to stump up the costs, but probably your chances are better. Most outfits want you to have operated the " real aircraft " within 6 months. You could consider Commute contract for a couple of years perhaps.

in theory, yes you can come back.
But as many forgot to mention here, is not only the experience thing, but any employer will ask you this question : why ? and what was the reason (of course, there is personnal reason too).
The thing is since the Germanwing crash, airlines may be more reticent to welcome back pilots...

Avenger, they only hire turkish nationals unless from a contracted ab-initio school somewhere in Europe

Sorry, yes you are correct, I assumed the original poster was a Captain but then read the stats again.. your'e right.

I had an altercation with my previous employer (more specifically a senior manager) and felt that leaving was the best option (wasn't sacked). Also the company was cutting corners and I didn't feel comfortable.

After that soon found a job in my previous (unrelated) profession on more money (and great conditions), and soon kind of slipped into this and the stability appealed to me (and my wife) and well the rest is history.

The reasons aren't simple but I want to go back, divorced, no responsibilities, some financial stability, and the chance to start my life over.

Appreciate the encouraging responses.