These study guide questions were submitted by real pilots who actually interviewed with United Airlines

1. When would you need a takeoff alternate?
   § 121.617 Alternate airport for departure. (a) If the weather conditions at the airport of takeoff are below the landing minimums in the certificate holder's operations specifications for that airport, no person may dispatch or release an aircraft from that airport unless the dispatch or flight release specifies an alternate airport located within the following distances from the airport of takeoff: (1) Aircraft having two engines. Not more than one hour from the departure airport at normal cruising speed in still air with one engine inoperative. (2) Aircraft having three or more engines. Not more than two hours from the departure airport at normal cruising speed in still air with one engine inoperative. (b) For the purpose of paragraph (a) of this section, the alternate airport weather conditions must meet the requirements of the certificate holder's operations specifications. (c) No person may dispatch or release an aircraft from an airport unless he lists each required alternate airport in the dispatch or flight release.
   When VISIBILITY at departure time is less than landing minimums for the airport, but greater than takeoff minimums.
   Weather below landing minimums at departure airport.
2. What are the requirements for a takeoff alternate?
   Must be within 1 hr, calm winds, single engine
3. What is tower's NORDO light gun signal to be cleared to land?
   Steady green
4. Tell us about a time when you had a problem with a subordinate.
   I had a first officer that lie about a missing static wick which I found later in the day laying in the cockpit floor. He broke it by mistake and hide it in his pocket. Surprise !
   I had a First Officer that procrastinated in his preflight inspections. I communicated that maintenance needed time to repair the aircraft if any deficiencies were found.
5. Tell us about a time when you didn't hit it off with someone that you have flow with.
   Arrogant Captain that didn't want to follow checklist and disregard first officer Concerns.
6. What would you consider to be the high point of your career so far?
   First time transition into the left seat. Great responsibility with higher returns.
7. What other airlines have you applied to?
   None
8. Have you heard from anyone else?
   United wants to hear they are the number one airline you want to work for - never was asked this in my interview
9. What would you do if another company called in six months?
   Say thank you for their consideration.
10. How did you prepare for this interview?
    Personal prep and advice from friends. NO formal schooled prep course since United wants to see the real you, not a book answer.
Read Interview Experiences for United Airlines from other Pilots!

Paul I

(Hired at United Airlines)


I found a ton of helpful feedback and questions as well as the real people responses in their own interview. The preparation for an interview is priceless.

Oct 31, 2024  

Zachary W

(Hired at United Airlines)


Great prep

Oct 18, 2024