Ready for Pushback: United Airlines Hiring Insights

Introduction

• Guest: Justin Ritter, Director of Hiring at United Airlines
• Attendance: 1500+ participants
• Focus: United Airlines hiring and interview preparation

Key Takeaways

Preparation for United Interviews

• Importance of being prepared for interviews.
• Spitfire Community offers 15% discount for interview prep services.
  • Coupon code valid until March 6.
  • Emphasizes preparing mentally and academically, not just rehearsed responses.

United Airlines Hiring Overview

• United is actively hiring pilots in 2025 and beyond.
• Despite changes in delivery and market trends, they aim to hire 1200+ pilots this year.
• Competitive applicants: Good quality flight time, leadership experience, and social stewardship.
• Military pilots are also considered even with lower hours (e.g., 153 hours).
• Networking and conferences are key for job opportunities.

Interview and Application Insights

• Recent hires include a mix of civilian and military pilots.
• Recency preference: 100 hours in the last 12 months for civilians, 20 hours for military.
• Block time counts fully, regardless of crew size.
• Transitioning pilots from other airlines, like FedEx, are welcome.
• Importance of a solid LinkedIn profile for networking.

Conference Participation

• Importance of attending industry conferences (e.g., Women in Aviation, NGPA).
• Networking with recruiters and other pilots enhances opportunities.
• United's approach at conferences: Meet and greets to enhance candidate experience.

Specific Hiring Policies

• Policies for military pilots, UMPP vs. traditional applications.
• Encouragement for traditional applications for those with dates in 2025.
• Pathways for pilots with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• No preference between US passport holders and green card holders.

Additional Advice and Clarifications

• Candidates should be honest about logbook discrepancies and career moves.
• Emphasis on quality of life decisions and maintaining flying hours.
• Check Ride failures are considered, but context matters.
• Degree is not required but preferred; many pilots succeed without one.

Closing Remarks

• Encouragement for attendees to be consistent in their applications and networking.
• Spitfire Community offers resources like resume templates and interview prep.
• Emphasis on being proactive in career progression.

Additional Resources

• Spitfire Community Services: Offers resume templates, interview prep services.
• Webinars: Free webinars available for further learning and preparation.

This session provided in-depth insights into United Airlines' hiring strategies and preparations, showcasing the importance of networking, preparation, and proactive career management. Attendees are encouraged to utilize available resources to enhance their chances of securing roles at United and within the aviation industry.