Why was he flying Night Freight for Northwest when he could have been flying passengers? Quality of life.
The 747 freighter was the best job at the airline. What are the benefits of flying night freight? You get to avoid TSA. You can leave the cockpit, stretch your body, and help yourself to coffee. You don't have to lock your door. The skies are quiet. There's no holding, and you're get radar vectors to final. Besides... their passengers are more interesting.
I guess that answer comes from the smiling faces of the employees. The overwhelming consensus is that this company takes care of their employees. Flexible schedules that accommodate families with a terrific leave policy. FedEx believes in a work/life balance. Rapid Advancement...as soon as 4 1/2 years to captain depending upon base.
Jim Gorman, V.P. Flight Training and Standards at FedEx Expressis reading Flight For Control
Jim Gorman say's, "We have the Best pay and benefit package in the industry." And he's not kidding. They do set the bar where it should be. But why not? They expect the best out of their people, and invest in them. You get what you pay for and FedEx gets the best.
Chief Pilot Bill McDonald says, "No pilot has ever been furloughed or missed a paycheck." How many airlines can say that?
Captain Mary Murphy say's, "I'm home with my kids every night."
Quality of life and schedules are a choice. International. Domestic. You decide based on your needs. Airbus, Boeing ...757, 777, and the classic 727 are among the planes you could fly.
Did you know that no pilot at FedEx has ever left for any reason other than retirement? They hire right, and pay for the best. Thus...they get the best.
If you want to fly airplanes for a living, and want to combine your passion with quality of life, and be paid the best in the industry... my suggestion would be take a look at FedEx. Remember... they are hiring leaders. If you're the best of the best... be the captain of your life and choose the company that will take care of you.
Did I forget to mention that FedEx donated 2 engines and a Boeing 727 at the Women of Aviation conference? So far they've donated 51 planes and 50 engines...they believe in the power of giving back, and it shows. Fred Smith, you've created an amazing company. But it's your people who give it life.
For anyone involved in Aviation, you should join Women in Aviation and I want to be your sponsor! Men as well as well as women can join. First check out the Member Benefits, and then click on Membership and make sure you add Karlene Petitt as your referral with this number: 46404
Enjoy the journey!
XOX Karlene
What can I say now?
ReplyDeleteI want to be a pilot for life at FedEx...
Sander, I know "exactly" how you feel! My advice... do it!
DeleteAny chance that FedEx would hire non-americans for their European operation?
ReplyDeleteRgds.
Tim.
European FreightDog.....
Timmo, That is an excellent question! Standby...we'll find out for you.
DeleteHi Karlene,
DeleteWe are wainting for your replie...
I'd like to know too whether there is any chance for a European JAA pilot to work for FedEx. Thanks in advance
DeleteNo, you must be a US Citizen
DeleteNow only if I could get that work permit.... converting my JAA licenses shouldn't be a problem... :)
ReplyDeleteRick, When I was ten-years old I said that one day we will have three world airlines. We are headed that way.
DeleteNow I say that one day we will have a world group of pilots enabling anyone to work anywhere. Why not? We fly to each others countries, and share our passengers. We fly the same planes, we should follow the same safety guidelines, and have the same high standards.
One day... we will be one. Unity throughout the world among the pilots, enabling us to work at any company.
I have a feeling those three world airlines will be named: SkyTeam, OneWorld, and Star. Hence the "special liveries" ;)
DeleteGreat input Karlene! I've been thinking the same thing, too! Pilots all over the world, strive for the exact same things; safety, perfection and always learning. I think, however, the big "wall" we as international citizens meet, is the big scary "visa" or work permit ordeal. It is very difficult for me, as an example, to get a job in the US without winning the lottery - literally! The green card lottery. Or marry an American. Both options seem a bit "far out" right now, but who knows :)
DeleteFly high! And don't forget to keep the blue side up!
I'm thinking I might have to create an international dating service where foreign pilots meet US pilots. Then they can marry and all work in the U.S. and make little co-pilots. :)
DeleteIt seems so odd that U.S. pilots are so free to work overseas, but not the other way around. Interesting. I'm going to bring you luck for winning the Green Lottery. Did you know that Saturday is St. Patrick's Day?
I find that British and South Africans etc. can work anywhere we can. Maybe it has to do with training reputation. Makes sense right? Honestly I've flown at my American company with Iranian, former Soviet, Spanish, Japanese Irish and English in less than 9 months time.
Delete747 FO
Whaledriver, thanks for your comment. Who do you fly with?
DeleteKarlene, you are a mind reader. Seriously. I was thinking about doing a flightsim for FedEx on the 77L MEM - NRT or HKG. Perhaps you've discovered my destiny to fly their 777LRF when I finish school.
ReplyDeleteDestiny is what we make it. This is for you, I know. Finish school. Finish strong. And the sky is not the limit. I'm seeing you as a perfect match for this great company!
DeleteWow... haven't thought a lot about fedex. Looks like you're having a great time at the conference! Can't wait to hear more about how it all went!
ReplyDeleteIt's a great company. Definitely would be my choice if I were starting out today. But you know... 8 airlines and closer to that final approach, it may be a dream for the younger pilots.
DeleteWhat a dream to fly panda planes for Fred Smith! I hope FedEx will continue to support Women in Aviation and hire me :)
ReplyDeleteMary, I hope so too. You would be a perfect match for this great airline!
DeleteThanks Karlene! I'm still looking for more information on their hiring minimums, but if they're willing to consider a young, determined flight instructor, I know I can wow them with my leadership abilities and enthusiasm!
ReplyDeleteMary, you wow me with your leadership abilities. I'll see if we can find out what their minimum requirements are. Thanks for the comment.
DeleteKarlene, Thanks for putting FedEx in front of me. I'm a freight dog at the moment, aiming higher. Our company (Ameriflight) flies freight for UPS, DHL, and FedEx. At work it is said UPS is a trucking company with airplanes, and FedEx is an airplane company with a few trucks. I would love to work for FedEx! I'm putting my application in now. Didn't realize their hiring window was open. But if people only leave because of retirement they only have to hire 100 or so pilots a year on average. Does someone without heavy jet experience have a chance?
ReplyDeleteSean, I used to work for Evergreen, and we flew for UPS while they were starting service. The pilots had a little nickname for them. But the reality is, FedEx seriously is a strong company, but more than that... you spend so much time at work, it's wonderful to be at work with family.
DeleteYes, I'm going to say yes... someone does have a chance without heavy time... be a leader. Be a captain. Fly a safe airplane. That's what they want. Good luck!
do the FedEx hiring licensed engineer?
ReplyDeletemy email is zvonkoigoca@yahoo.com
Anonymous... it's all about you. I'm sure you're more than just a licensed engineer. Apply and you will find out.
DeleteIm currently making a "career board" with all the info I picked up at the national conference for the local WIA chapter I'm starting in Tulsa. FedEx Express pilot qualifications are ATP 1500 MEL, 1000 MEL PIC and current FE turbojet rating or written within previous 18 months. I'll just keep flying!
ReplyDeleteMary, yes... keep flying. And remember, the requirements fluctuate with the supply and demand. We are now in the 5th year of age 60 rule change, so give it time. Keep flying and those requirements may come down to meet you. Best of luck!
DeleteHey Karlene...its good to see that you have been replying to all posts on a regular basis.
ReplyDeleteI would like to know what are the minimum requirements for hiring? Is FedEX hiring people from India?
I am not sure if they are hiring from India, but will try to find out. Do you have the ability to work in the US? Do you have a work Visa? I think that will be the issue.
DeleteFedEx Express pilot qualifications are ATP 1500 MEL, 1000 MEL PIC and current FE turbojet rating or written within previous 18 months.
any chance for a fresher to start career in engineering department (mechanical) having only 6 months exp on B 737???
ReplyDeleteI am not sure...but we can always ask! Thanks for your comment.
DeleteHi Karlene,
ReplyDeleteIs FEDEX currently hiring? I am typed in the B727, B747-400, SIC time in DC8, and FE (727). After 16 years I was furloughed from ASTAR Air Cargo. I am a freight dog, and WAI member #44856, and would love a chance at the Holy Grail, flying for FEDEX. If you could give me any information or advice, I would really appreciate it! Thank you for your time, Allison
Allison, you are such a high achiever... a leader in the industry. I am sure they would be excited to have you work for them. Keep the faith!
DeleteWhat is the best path from a regional FO to FedEx? What qualities are important to the company?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Bernie Hanson
Good question. I know that leadership is one of the most important keys. They hire captains.
DeleteFedex is hiring new pilot?? If so could be that pilot a EU citizen with JAA license? If they're hiring new FO they could also be low-hours? Thanks a lot... ;)
ReplyDeleteFabio, I'm sure you cannot have low hours and work for FedEx. Supply and demand, and this company is in demand. Besides, they have their minimums... and they will hire the very best and most experienced they can. Keep flying and get those hours up!
DeleteIs it true that to be hired by FedEx you MUST have a recommendation from a current Fedex pilot? And, that a FedEx pilot can only recommend ONE pilot?
ReplyDeleteOH... Now that is an interesting question. Let's see if we can find out. Thanks for the question.
DeleteThere is any chance for a non cityzen pilot, (USA), be hired for FEDEX,I already have 9000 hrs,on differents Aircraft types,and PIC Hrs on Airbus,any possibility?
ReplyDeleteDo you have the ability to work in the US? Do you have a work visa? Do you have a college degree? Your hours are excellent. I hope this will work out for you.
DeleteNop, I dont have any of those, i have a college degree,so I think my chance are very little inst it?,well how can I know if FEDEX can give the ability to wok in US and help me with the work visa
DeleteI think that this is your responsibility to determine if you can work in the US. I do not think that US based companies can change the rules, even if they wanted to. So... you have homework to figure out how to make this work for you. Good luck.
DeleteThanks for the tips and I think I have alot work to do,so I think I need to start that process,see you
ReplyDeleteYou do have some work! You'll get there.
DeleteDATE: March 29, 2012
ReplyDeleteTO: Karlene Petitt
FROM: Jim Gorman
RE: Response to blog questions
Karlene,
It was great to meet you at this year’s Women in Aviation International conference. I must admit that being my first time to attend I was quite taken aback with the positive response by all who attended. We were very busy at our booth and I am afraid we didn’t get to spend enough time with everyone. After reading your blog, I see that is the case as there are still questions left unanswered. I read through the blog and here are the answers I came up with. I hope it helps.
Take care and fly safe,
Jim G
Any chance FedEx would hire non-Americans for their European operations?
It’s not a matter of not being an American. Part of our minimum requirements are:
Eligibility for rapid visa issuance, issued by offices in the United States to fly to any FedEx destination.
This position requires clearance from United States Postal Service including a FBI fingerprint check
Candidates for jobs involving handling or access to U.S. mail cannot be considered for employment if they have resided outside the U.S., Guam or Puerto Rico for more than (6) six months during the last (5) years prior to today's date, other than the following verifiable exceptions: active duty in the U.S. Uniformed Service; trailing spouse or dependent of someone working for the U.S. government (military or civilian); missionary; student attending school in a foreign country; Peace Corps participant; employee of a U.S. based employer/company or other extraordinary circumstances.
Eligibility for issuance of US Security Clearance
All certificates and ratings required to be U.S.A. FAA issued
Does FedEx hire licensed Engineer?
We do not hire professional Flight Engineers
Flight Engineer Certificate or written is not required to apply
Current FE Turbojet Rating or written (FEX or Basic/turbojet) taken within previous 18 months only applicable to candidates notified and offered a BI class that may include B727 Second officer positions.
Where can I find the minimum requirement?
www.Pilotcredentials.com
So is the main issue about handling or access to U.S. Mail? but do they take the letters in their hands or they come in containers with proper dated seals so anyone can see if the content have been opened...? That surprises me, in a country like the US this silly procedure sounds more like from my country, Spain...
ReplyDeleteGood luck finding someone who has lived in the U.S. for 5 years in a row and that is not already flying for another company...
Best regards,
Alexei
Alexei, The letters and freight are in containers. But that doesn't matter because when I was flying freight for Evergreen and we had contracts for UPS, the pilots had access if we wanted to.
Deleterelay appreciated your effect off answering all quires
ReplyDeletebut no luck in my case i am Indian cpl holder
regards
rohit goel
Rohit, you never know where the world will be and the change that will occur in ten years. Keep following your dream and something good will happen.
DeleteHello I work as a courier for fedex express. I am working on my commercial pilots license now. I do not have a college degree. Is that a deal breaker ?
ReplyDeleteToday it's a deal breaker. In ten years? Who knows. It really is supply and demand on how they determine qualifications. But there are so many schools that offer on-line degrees. You can work while attending school. I think your dedication to the company, and then flying and earning your degree, you'll show them your intent.
DeleteStudent loans and grants for college can make that happen. I hope it works for you. You could get a 4 year degree in three years. The timing for being a pilot today is great.
The current retirement rate is phenomenal.
WILL FEDEX HIRE PILOT FROM INDIA. BY HAVING FLYING HOURS
ReplyDeleteI believe you need to have a Visa or the right to work in the US. You should contact them and find out.
Delete