Episode
194. What Will Pilot Hiring Really Look Like in 2026?
- Published
- Dec 23, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 5201
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
James Onieal from Raven Career Development returns to break down what pilot hiring is shaping up to look like in 2026. We dig into majors, regionals, corporate paths, and why movement can feel slow right up until it suddenly isn't. From CFI logjams to corporate and furlough realities, this episode is all about timing, strategy, and expectations. Subscribe and listen to stay ahead of the hiring curve. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Click here to learn more. Show Notes 0:00 Intro 4:15 Big 3 in 2026 11:52 Rejection Rates 15:23 Cadet Program Pipeline 26:08 Corporate Pilot Q&A 32:32 Regional FO Q&A 40:46 CJO or More Interviews 48:50 No Legacy Offers After Furlough? 59:29 Retirement Gameplan 59:29 GED & Education 1:20:20 Final Thoughts Our Sponsors Tim Pope, CFP® — Tim is both a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and a pilot. His practice specializes in aviation professionals and aviation 401k plans, helping clients pursue their financial goals by defining them, optimizing resources, and monitoring progress. Click here to learn more. Also check out The Pilot's Portfolio Podcast. Advanced Aircrew Academy — Enables flight operations to fulfill their training needs in the most efficient and affordable way—anywhere, at any time. They provide high-quality training for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight coordinators, maintenance, and line service teams, all delivered via a world-class online system. Click here to learn more. Raven Careers — Helping your career take flight. Raven Careers supports professional pilots with resume prep, interview strategy, and long-term career planning. Whether you're a CFI eyeing your first regional, a captain debating your upgrade path, or a legacy hopeful…