Champion Air

[Bigsky]

Wondering if anyone had any information on Champion Air. I know at one time Carl Pohlad and NWA owned most of the shares but then sold all or most of them. So my first question is, does NWA own any shares or have any controlling interests in Champion Air? Also as an employee of Champion, would I get travel passes on NWA? If anyone else can provide some insight on the life as a line pilot at Champion it would be much appreciated as I have friend who is waitng to start class.

cheers

bigsky

 

[smfav8r]

Bigsky,

I don't think NWA owns any of Champion anymore, but I'm not positive....as far as passes go, I don't think they get any, but they have jumpseat with most carriers.

I have many friends who have flown for Champion, and it sounds like working for any other non-sched....there all about the same!!

Most of the flying is scheduled charter to the Carribean for Apple, Funjet and Transglobal Vacations(tour groups)...cattle car 727-200 with 170+ seats....long days that are turns from cities like MSP and DET to destinations like CUN, MBJ, AUA, ZIH, etc.....other flying will be AD HOCS (subservice).Always a nightmare!!!!

Good Side:
It's nice flying when your on-time and you can get a good amount of days off if you live in base. The money is usually descent!

Bad Side:
Supplemental 121 duty regs are less restrictive than domestic/flag.....can have very long days that are very legal.....not a whole lot of support from the company, need to make sure everything is in order...gen decs, documentation, etc.....need to pay for out-station servicing with company checks/credit cards/cash. This list can go on for pages....

My suggestion is to talk with a seasoned non-schedder over a couple of beers to find out what it's all about!! It's an interesting lifestyle and a part of the industry that most pilots don't even know exists!! Just don't have any misconceptions that just because a company fly's big aircraft, it's going to be organized!