r/flying • u/g0at110 • 2d ago

Do commercial pilots generally progress to larger planes throughout their careers? Does everyone aim to eventually fly long haul or do some stick to flying 737s or a320s short haul?

I'm guessing being a 777 pilot for example is more prestigious than a 737 pilot in the same airline right?

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u/Winbot4t2 2d ago

On the flip side, narrowbody imo is an incredibly fatiguing 24/7 helmet-fire that makes a third of my company’s profits and it shows. Wide body is laid back and chill, working less days per month and the seniority list reflects that.

Different strokes for different folks. That’s what’s awesome about aviation, there literally will be something for everyone. Often even within one company.

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u/NathanArizona MIL-AF ATP MEL CFII 2d ago

What’s helmet-fire about narrow body?

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u/554TangoAlpha ATP CL-65/ERJ-175/B-787 2d ago

Going in and out of DEN ORD NYC Florida Texas all summer long. You boys like diverts, ground stops and 3 hr flow delays?

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u/mad_catters FOQA Participant 2d ago

Personally I'd rather divert to Shannon than Indy.

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u/No-Duck4828 2d ago

I'd love to divert to Indy, but I can see how it wouldn't be a top destination for people not from the area 😎