I want to be a Commercial Airline Pilot; what are the qualifications?

Question

It would be best to receive answers from any Commercial Airline Pilot's, especially with those who have many years of experience.

My question is, will I qualify for the job?

First, I have a GED.. not a high school diploma.

I'm also going into the Air Force to be a fighter pilot, with a Bachelor's degree in Aviation Technology.

Answer 1

They also do psych evaluations and you can't have any history of anti-depressants.  I'm pretty sure they can't access your juvenile records.  My ex is almost done with his program, and my good friend works for Continental.  The GED won't be an issue once you have your Bachelor's degree.  It is, however, a very expensive endeavor.

Are you SURE you can join the Air Force with a GED?

Answer 2

to work for  regional carrier (flying small jets)

you will need to be at least 21, most require a BA / BS degree

you need to have a clean driving record / criminal record. Airlines base experience on hours flown. Regionals right now require you to have a minimum of 500 hours of total flight time and a minimum of 100 + of flight time in a multi-engine aircraft. You have to be able to get a first class medical and most require you to have the ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) written exam passed.  and just a tip from the inside you will have to account for the past ten years of your activities ie work / school / residence history - and yes they do call and check so make sure the information you provide is 100 percent accurate. If your not, it will cost you a job opportunity. For a legacy carrier like a Delta United or American you need the same but the flight time is substantially higher. They usually want no less than 1500 hours total flight time with a minimum of 200 multi to be considered "competitive". Low cost carriers like Southwest and AirTran have even higher requirements. To be considered "competitive" with them, you have to have a minimum of 2500 hours total time. Southwest also requires you to come to the interview with a 737 type rating all ready in hand. it sounds daunting but it can be done.