I began contributing to this blog several years ago, and since
then I have been pointing to the cyclical nature of the Airline Industry and
aviation in general. We have gone from the depths of the worldwide recession
and its affects on every industry, to watching the Airlines charge back to
profitability and prosperity. As the Airlines, both passenger and freight
carriers alike, have regained their momentum there is an often stated need for
new commercial pilots that will stretch into the next few decades and beyond.
Having served as a past Chairman of ALPA’s Master Executive Council for the airline I flew for, it was interesting to see that Union leaders in that same position, representing almost 3,000 pilots flying for the newest version of Pinnacle Airlines, have recommended a provisional agreement that would unite pilots from three Pinnacle-owned airlines under a single working agreement. This new contract, if approved by the pilots, will smooth the way for the integration of one of the world’s largest regional carriers and improve pay and work-rules for the pilots at all three if the Pinnacle carriers.
Southwest joined Delta Air Lines Inc. in posting huge fourth-quarter profits. Although American Airlines was the only airline that reported a loss, Boeing said
that American has bought two new 777-300 extended range aircraft that have a total maximum list price of $568.2 million as part of its expansion plan.
XOJet late last month announced 50-percent year-over-year growth and that it expects more of the same or better into this New Year. The Brisbane, Calif.-based charter operator and private jet membership provider is accelerating expansion of its fleet, adding Bombardier Challenger 300s and its first Challenger 605 last month.
Watching talented individuals give life to their dreams and successfully
pursue them is a very rewarding experience. It is especially so if you are lucky
enough to watch an aspiring airline pilot go from a new student to the cockpit
of a modern airliner. It takes a determined effort to succeed, but the rewards of
succeeding in this venture are better than almost anything else you can do.
I have learned some valuable lessons about aircraft and how to safely fly them from some very experienced pilots as I was working on advancing my career in aviation. Putting those lessons into affect during my flight training and aviation career allowed me to reach my career goal, to be an airline pilot, and I pass them along to aspiring airline pilots whenever I get a chance.
I have confirmed with company officials that Republic Airlines will immediately begin interviewing and hiring qualified pilots to fly for Republic Airlines, Chautauqua Airlines and Shuttle America. All three airlines are owned and operated by Indianapolis based Republic Airways Holdings.
The Airline Industry in the United States, both Legacy Airlines and Low-cost Airlines alike, are reporting higher December traffic for the year 2010. Traffic
figures just released justify the Carrier’s collective optimism for continued
growth ahead.