FedEx... More Than Freight

Late one night I was flying the 747 freighter from Anchorage to New York and the first officer said, "You know, I had the chance to fly freight for FedEx once, but I came to Northwest because I couldn't see flying night freight." Ah...the irony of life.


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.

Why FedEx?

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.

People! Service! Profit!

"Safety is our Number 1 Goal!"

Jim Gorman, V.P. Flight Training and Standards at FedEx Express
is 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