Aviator Intelligence Career Insider - 4th Edition
📰 INDUSTRY INTELLIGENCE - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS WEEK HIRING UPDATES 📈 DELTA AIR LINES - Currently interviewing: 100-150 pilots/month - 2026 projected hiring: 1,000+ pilots - Applications: OPEN - Timeline: 4-8 weeks from application to interview invitation - Strategy: Apply now for Q2 2026 class dates 📈 UNITED AIRLINES - Currently interviewing: 200+ pilots/month - 2026 projected hiring: 2,500 pilots - Applications: OPEN (continuous flow) - Timeline: 6-12 weeks from application to CJO - Strategy: Strong military and regional flow candidates moving quickly 📈 AMERICAN AIRLINES - Currently interviewing: 125-175 pilots/month - 2026 projected hiring: ~2,000 pilots - Applications: OPEN - Preference: Envoy, Piedmont, PSA flow candidates prioritized - Timeline: 8-12 weeks application to class date 📈 SOUTHWEST AIRLINES - Currently interviewing: 75-100 pilots/month - 2026 projected hiring: 850+ pilots - Applications: Application window currently closed - Timeline: Slower process, 12-16 weeks typical - Strategy: Internal recommendations carry significant weight 📈 ALASKA AIRLINES - Currently interviewing: 90+ thru first quarter ‘26 - 2026 projected hiring: Nothing projected beyond first quarter ‘26 - Applications: OPEN - Timeline: 6-8 weeks - Strategy: West coast domiciles, strong culture focus REGIONAL CARRIERS - RECORD BONUSES 💰 SKYWEST - Signing bonus: $7,500 for previously typed new pilots - First year pay: $90K+ - Guaranteed interviews at Delta, United (partnership) - Bases: All major hubs 💰 ENDEAVOR AIR (Delta Connection) - Signing bonus: Up to $40,000 depending on experience - First year pay: $110K - Flow to Delta: 24 months (guaranteed) - Bases: MSP, DTW, NYC 💰 ENVOY (American Connection) - Signing bonus: Up to $15,000 - First year pay: $85K - Flow to American: 24-36 months - Bases: DFW, ORD, MIA 💰 PIEDMONT (American Connection) - Signing bonus: Up to $100,000 for direct entry captains with experience - First year pay: $80K - Flow to American: 24 months (fastest flow) - Bases: PHL, CLT