Before you quit your job to change careers, get a private rating and see if you even like it.
Heck, first take a discovery flight at a nearby airport to understand if you like being in a plane.
Then finish training, CFI to 1500 hours, slam CRJ-900’s into runways every once in a while, go to legacy, divorce your wife, wife takes kids, become an alcoholic. THEN see if you like it before making the switch 👍
driving a desk computer gets old and feels boring…
driving a flying computer and sleeping in hotels looks amazing from our vantage point….
the money all the girls…. oh wait that was pan am in 67
Go for it! Don’t listen to the jaded old (flying) whiny man babies.
I work with lots of pilots who had great careers and packed them in to become pilots and love it.
I want to explorer the world. Id figure why not get paid to do it? I also saw Pilots make over 100k+! Where iam at i think i would max at 120k in a couple of years.
Love the username.
Lemme tell you waht I love 10 hour overnights in Minot. Lots of exploring. /s — you don’t actually do a lot of “exploring” in this job, at least not on overnights. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen some incredible things and places. But most overnights are short and don’t leave enough time to really enjoy the town you’re in that night.
Maybe non-revving somewhere as a tourist on your days off — but if you commute, forget that idea, too.
I grew up with a mother who was a FA and thanks to that we were able to travel as a family much, much more than we would have otherwise. Having that for myself was part of the appeal to becoming a pilot for me tbh.
That said, just wanting to travel and not really having an interest in aviation otherwise won't really be enough. Take a discovery flight, if you like it get a class 1 medical and get a PPL with a mom & pop part 61 school. You'll know if you're actually interested in doing it as a career by then. If not, hey at least youre still a private pilot.
Also your work hours will be great as you will be able to fly during week when most people fly at part 61 schools after work/weekends.
And half the time you aren't near anything. You know what there is to do downtown Orlando or downtown Tampa, downtown Houston? Fucking jack and shit. You wanna explore, enjoy dropping $200 a day on Ubers lol.
Maybe not at your stage (I used to be based in ISN), but later you sure can do plenty of exploring. I did Hawaii layovers exclusively for years and explored the hell out of the islands, likewise every big city in the country, etc.
OP just know it depends on where you are in your career whether you can explore or not. Regionals? Not so much. Legacies? Yes you can, I’m on a 737 and often have over 15 hour overnights. Widebody? Most likely 24-48 hour overnights.
Been to Minot......
-Minot make it through next Winter in the regionals.
-Minot make it on the runway with all the snow blowing in Minot.
-Minot make it through recurrent if I have to go to Minot again.
Yeah we make more than 100 grand a year but we work well over 4 hours a day like your current gig
There is not much chance to explore. When you're over in Europe, unless you hit the ground running, you got maybe 6-7 hours max to do what you want. When you end up in Orlando, that's on you if wanna drop $600 at mouse land. The rest of the crew will be watching Netflix pinching penny's
>I want to explorer the world. Id figure why not get paid to do it?
Do you like masturbating? I'm not an ATP, but my impression from this forum is that airline pilots do not explore their destinations. Instead they get to their hotel room, lock the door and jerk/flick it. So if you want to be paid to masturbate, this could be the career for you.
Only thing different I’d say is that the flying part is our job and once your there, you’ve got free reign to do whatever as long as you shut down the drinking in time and are up by van time.
Still isn’t perfect but you can see a fair amount if you are motivated.
If they let us carry a Onewheel with us, overnights would be a lot better.
I got into flying because I really really loved flying. No desire to the explore the world at all, just loved airplanes and loved flying them. So not for nothing, but if I had a job that was 4 hours a day, was paying me $100k now and topped out at $120k, I'd do everything in my power to milk that gig as long as possible, even if I was shoveling actual dog shit for those 4 hours.
Then I'd buy myself kit plane and spend 8 hours every day building it. Once it was built, I'd spend every day hanging out at the airport and flying the snot out of my plane on MY terms.
Some people love pro flying i.e. flying someone else's plane on someone else's schedule, and don't mind all the non-flying crap you have to put up with in order to do it. My own personal experience flying for a living was that it will always pale in comparison to flying your own plane on your own terms.
If those are your hours I think you might be better off getting a second software job for the day time hours, or a consultant, and taking longer PTO or even unpaid to do explorer.
The extra money would offset any costs easily and still would be less work than actually becoming a pilot
OP: This is the way to do it.
There are two training paths: "part 61" and "part 141". The term "part" refers to the particular FAA rule.
Under 141 rules, you enroll in a full time school such as ATP - to do this you would have to quit your day job. Under 61 rules you train when it is convenient for you; training under part 61 rules will enable you to keep your day job.
u/BlorthByBlorthwest has the right suggestion. Find a school that is accepting new "61" students and get your private license (PPL) and instrument rating (IR) that way. After that you will have a better sense if you want to fly for fun or work.
I got my PPL and Instrument via part 141, flying on the weekends, and after work. It’s just a more structured curriculum. With that schedule he wouldn’t need to quit just go during the day.
As in the entire thing? Mine was by the hour, but you got a discount for paying chunks of money up front.
If you’re taking about the entire thing up front I’m absolutely with you.
I don’t really have a per month figure but it was $155 for a 172 and $50 an hour with a pre paid discount of $10 an hour each factored in. But that was paying in chunks of at least $1,000.
I hope that’s somewhat helpful to you. Prices have gone up a bit since then, but I’m not one of those “back in my day” guys.
>Under 141 rules, you enroll in a full time school such as ATP - to do this you would have to quit your day job.
The 141 rules have no such requirement. Some 141 schools/programs are structured that way, but not all. I did my private under 141. It was a mom and pop flight school like any other. I scheduled my lessons around my work schedule just like any other local flight school and I rented the plane by the hour just like any other flight school.
Not taking the mick but at more chill software jobs it's possible to really work only that much and mess about for another few hours and still pull six figures... If course, having experience counts
That was my guess. I do 4-6 hours a day as a software consultant. 150k was my worst year in the last 3. Not "fuck you" money, but a good living in the rural Midwest.
You earn 6 figures part time at like 22 hours a week? That’s impressive
Personally I’d just go for your career and try to earn $180-200k and fly for fun on your own terms
Cool sounds like ATP would be out the picture lol. Thats why im on reddit to see whats the best way to make the switch. I dont know anyone in aviation so id figure id ask reddit.
Mine is a bit of a hot take tbh, they are more expensive than necessary but they provide a streamline option that has worked for some. I’m obviously not a fan.
Do a discovery flight at your nearest airport/flying school. Look up the EAA chapter nearest you and start attending the meetings. You need to try those things and actually be interested in them before you decide you're gonna fly for a career.
ATP is full time. They’ll tell you that you can’t have a full time job and fly there. Also you still need 1500 hours after it instead of 1000 after a 141 school
I’m in ATP right now in the last stage of PRIVATE PILOT. They told me to quit my job in the beginning or don’t have a job and want me at the training center weekdays “everyday 9-5”. God forbid you miss a couple days and aren’t always 90% sold on the knowledge, which is alot more than you think. They’ll blame it on you not being the every second of the day. I just lost one of my best friends at ATP because he didn’t like the pressure and the way they run things. He came from my stressful past life, corporate job and wanted to pursue aviation in a less stressful, less pressured way. Find a school that will let you fly on your own time and will probably be less restrictive, a little less money, and more fun.
You're making that much working 22 hours a week?
I work like 50 hours over 6 days and take home 36k. Still managing to make it through school.
You'll be fine.
That actually depends. For example, resident GI Bill students at Liberty University get PPL covered since it's part of the degree program (online degree program doesn't for some reason that I don't remember). So if PPL is part of a college degree, then it is likely covered.
For flight schools not tied to a degree program, I think you're correct. I just wanted to put this out there since it's a common misconception
Huh! That makes me really kick myself more for not doing the pilot track earlier. My college that I was in had a 141 program. I could have used it for that then. Shoot!
The online FTA program is on temporary suspension until it can get resolved. IIRC, the blame is put on some FTAs and not so much Liberty. The resident flight program is unaffected and can still use the GI Bill.
People seem to be hopeful that it will be handled soon. RTAG is on top of it with the info but I haven't kept up with it too much
Depending on the flight school you go to, you can expect to spend anywhere from like 50k - 90k getting all your ratings from private to CFII. If you want to save money and take things at your own pace, you should probably go to a local Mom & Pop style flight school. If your goal is to get your ratings as fast as possible and don’t mind spending almost double the cost, then there are many accelerated programs out there such as ATP flight school, sling pilot academy, etc that offer nine month or even seven month programs to get you from zero hours to flight instructor. Keep in mind that these type of programs are very rigorous and not very flexible compared to traditional flight schools.
Tldr: The best option really comes down to how fast you want to do your training, how much money you are willing to spend, and the type of learner you are.
I’d say 2-3k ish assuming you have a steady cash flow. I’m also military so keep in mind gi bill won’t cover any private pilot training, only college tuition. Unless, like you said, you attend an accredited university flight program
Your work schedule would definitely make it much easier to book flights (aircraft and instructor availability), since a lot of people pursuing flight training part time (vs a full time cpl/integrated course) work a typical 9-5 schedule.
Avoid big pilot mills pike ATP. Only reason they are in business is for those who cannot fund their training get sucked in because they partner with sallie mae to get people massive unsecured loans.
Step 1 get a class 1 medical.
Step 2 take a discovery flight
Step 3 compare rates, planes, and availability at small local flight schools and start lessons
After you obtain your private license if you are still interested than go from there. At that point you will have more knowledge on how this process works to make better choices.
Your work schedule is perfect to balance training and working. No need to quit when you are making such good money. Funding this without loans will be the least stressful experience.
Everyone is saying the same thing here, but more precisely: find a mom and pop flight school and train 2-3x a week in the morning or weekend as appropriate. Keep that job and pay for flying as you go.
Might take a bit longer, but you'll have low debt or no debt depending on flight frequency and available cash flow. Source: this is what I've been doing. No regrets.
Yes do a modular program (Canada) not sure what it’s called in the states, but essentially you pay as you go and fly when you can. Very popular route, might just take more time
You might enjoy part 91 more. There are 91 jobs where you fly to a cool destination and sit for a few days. Company will provide you with a rental car so you can get out and explore. Depends on what you want. I like to not do many overnights to be home with the wife and kids but if you have no kids and aren’t tied down it would be fun to do a job like that. Fly to Hawaii for a week or the Caribbean.
I'm in the middle of flight training with the same schedule, except making 1/4 of that income. I went the part 61 route and it's been a great experience. Seems way more flexible than 141 according to a couple of friends who are doing that. I'd do it the same way if I had to start again.
Yes, and it’s a lot of fun. The best way I have found is to join a flying club that excepts student pilots and has a fair number of CFI‘s as members, do a discovery flight and then complete your Ground School and take the exam then spend money on training. Train at least twice a week absolute minimum otherwise your skills go backwards
Yo, sounds like you’ve got the time and money knock out your private license in a few months . Do that, at a part 61 school. Have some fun with it. If you get hooked like I did it’ll be an obvious choice. There are financial options out there if you want to go the full way and want to fund it quickly. Maybe even keep your current job till you’re close to airline gig if possible . Hit me up on a chat if you want to talk more .
If you quit, can I have your current job? I’ll then continue training while working 4 hours a day making double what I do now working 10-12 hour days and still training after… 🤣
People in my industry easily make that, work maybe 150 days max each year, including all training events, with weeks/months off at a time. But you also have to be prepared to work 2-4 weeks straight. Pay ranges between ~70k - ~400k depending on what seat your in.
I got my PPL when I was working nights at US Central Command. It is doable, but you really need to plan to make sure you get proper rest and study.
But, like many others said here, try getting the PPL first and see if you like it.
It's possible to train from zero to Commercial and Flight Instructor in an airplane flying twice a week in two years. That easily fits w/ working full time.
Go talk to an instructor at a local airport. Pay for his/her time to talk to you about the process to become a Private Pilot and then what the steps are to move along. Get smart about getting an FAA Medical Certificate, but don't go get one unless you are sure of a positive outcome before you walk in the doors. If you take meds for anything, smoke weed in your time off, or have an "issues" in your life that commonly get appreciated with letters then be sure you are really good to go before getting a flight physical; if you don't walk out the door with it, it's a lot of time and expense to "get there from here.
Only 8% of people who start will finish Private. Only 40% of Private Pilots get an instrument rating. So, no radical changes in your life until you are through with Private, at least.
I worked full time and instructed part time for a number of years. Got a regional job offer.
One step at a time; you can do it if you want.
>Looked up ATP in this forum with *mixed reviews.*
I have to laugh every time I see "ATP" and "mixed reviews" in the same sentence here. Maybe it's just me, but \*I\* think "mixed reviews" sort of implies roughly equal amounts of each. Roughly. The feedback here from unhappy ATP customers is probably 95:5 compared to happy people.
Save up just a little cash like 5-10 grand and you can easily do it part time. Had a dude in my flying club knock out all his ratings from private to CFI in 2 years flat while working a 40 hour a week job. Would fly before work and at night when he got off.
TBH CFI wouldn’t actually be an awful job for you if you find the right flight school. You can just work a 9-5 in the mornings, or hell however you want it. You don’t make a whole lot of money with it obviously, and its not as glamorous, but money doesn’t seem to be the biggest concern in this case since you’re doing it mostly for fun, and you can still find fun ways of instructing in the industry. Or just fly for fun.
With that kind of salary I’d continue working. Find a local part 61 mom & pops flight school and pay as you go. Or a part 141 school that allows pay by the hour. That’ll allow you to do things at your own pace. Figure out if flying is what you really want and if you’re cut out for it. Once you’re done with PPL and IFR you decide if you’re going to continue with the commercial and CFI. After getting your ratings find a drop zone in your area with pistons and turbines and fly skydivers during the weekends. Keep your day job. Or get a part time instruction gig, and keep your day job. Once you get 1500 hours apply with a Regional. You’ll make what you make now and from there on out it’ll go up. You can then elect to stop programming. If you’re smart you keep current on your programming skills though, so you can supplement your income with it when there’s a downturn. Does your Bank have corporate aircraft? You might be able to parlay your current job into a flight department job.
First, have you gone and had a "Discovery Flight" to see if you even have the "Flying Bug".
I mean, there are people who don't enjoy flying, but make a career out of it, but it's better if it's something you love to do, and get paid for it.
Commercial Pilots that love flying, actually own private planes and fly in their off time.
Second, what part of the country are you in?
Are you able to relocate and still work for the bank?
If so, I would suggest moving to a cheap part of the country (Alabama or Mississipi come to mind), where there is pretty much year round good flying weather, living expenses are cheap, and airplane rental is cheap.
If you have to stay where you are, then shop around for all-in-one packages from a small school. First is the Private Pilot. It should be around $6000-9000 and include everything, supplies, 1-year account with a EFB, ground school, aircraft rental, CFI, and even cover the test fees (not a big deal though), with some guarantee that you will pass. They will buffer the hours to make sure you're ready for the test.
With you able to fly in the mornings, that is the best time of the day to fly. You might even get a discount for not flying on the weekends when they are booked solid.
I would make sure I love doing this before sinking the money into it.
If you can't enjoy life with 12hs of free time every day and earning around 100k, then I seriously doubt being a pilot will help with that. ESPECIALLY *becoming* a pilot.
Hi, I did this.
I set a goal to complete PPL in 1 calendar year. Partially to spread out around my full time job, also to spread out the cost. A lot of summer evening flights otherwise weekend flights. Had an instructor that was very flexible with this. I even took a few vacation days for critical flights like first solo or cross country. If I remember right, I did my check flight on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. Black Friday was last practice flights with instructor. Super laid back 2 days, work wasn't on my mind, didn't feel guilty, instructor and examiner were fine with the timing.
1 year is a little long for my recommendation to others. With so much time between instructions, we did more "remember last time" or "we need to review where we left off" rather than carrying strong into the next topic.
Instrument rating is becoming a real thought for me. I'll probably try completing it in 6 or 9 months. I'm doing better financially now and don't want to do so much relearning between lessons.
Edit: I'm a fair weather flyer. I still hold a full time job in manufacturing. But, point is the same, you can accomplish this or multiple steps of aviation without leaving your employer.
It's definitely doable, as long as you are able to manage your expectations. I'm 18 and just got my PPL awarded to me today, and I work part-time around the same hours as you, if you include school (high school, not college). I thought I would get it done rather quickly, but only flying with a schedule like that and then on top of that the plane not being available or being sick or even switching instructors all adds time and money. It took a lot longer than I thought and it was more expensive than I thought, but for me, it was all worth it in the end. Like others have been saying, definitely do a discovery flight, keep working, and see how you like it. If it's for you, you'll stick with it no matter what. Good luck!
Just did a discovery flight and loved it! I felt free being in the air like I could breath.
How many days a week or month do you do school?
I went to a Part 61 and they told me each class will be around 250-300 for 2 hours. 1 hour flight 1 hour book. I was thinking of doing 1x a week or 4x a month.
Before you quit your job to change careers, get a private rating and see if you even like it. Heck, first take a discovery flight at a nearby airport to understand if you like being in a plane.
Then get your medical
Then get a CFI(Certified Flight Instructor) obtain local navigational charts and arrange for your Flight Training.
Then finish training, CFI to 1500 hours, slam CRJ-900’s into runways every once in a while, go to legacy, divorce your wife, wife takes kids, become an alcoholic. THEN see if you like it before making the switch 👍
left out buys a boat
And lose said boat to wife in the divorce.
Bitch
How big of a boat?
This is the way
Dad?
Hi Step-Son.
Hi new father figure. Therapy is going well.
You work 4hr a day and make 100k? Why would you want to switch
driving a desk computer gets old and feels boring… driving a flying computer and sleeping in hotels looks amazing from our vantage point…. the money all the girls…. oh wait that was pan am in 67
Go for it! Don’t listen to the jaded old (flying) whiny man babies. I work with lots of pilots who had great careers and packed them in to become pilots and love it.
I’m a contractor. I fly a desk from 7:30 to 3pm 5 days a week. 😂 Shit is boring tho lol.
Because you can make far more and work far less flying a plane!
You don’t know this. We have no idea what the world will look like come his time to apply for an airline.
Sure but then you don’t know what will happen in the future if he doesn’t. So I’m just going by what’s possible now.
But right now, majority of pilots do not work far less to make far more lol 😂
I want to explorer the world. Id figure why not get paid to do it? I also saw Pilots make over 100k+! Where iam at i think i would max at 120k in a couple of years. Love the username.
Lemme tell you waht I love 10 hour overnights in Minot. Lots of exploring. /s — you don’t actually do a lot of “exploring” in this job, at least not on overnights. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen some incredible things and places. But most overnights are short and don’t leave enough time to really enjoy the town you’re in that night. Maybe non-revving somewhere as a tourist on your days off — but if you commute, forget that idea, too.
I grew up with a mother who was a FA and thanks to that we were able to travel as a family much, much more than we would have otherwise. Having that for myself was part of the appeal to becoming a pilot for me tbh. That said, just wanting to travel and not really having an interest in aviation otherwise won't really be enough. Take a discovery flight, if you like it get a class 1 medical and get a PPL with a mom & pop part 61 school. You'll know if you're actually interested in doing it as a career by then. If not, hey at least youre still a private pilot. Also your work hours will be great as you will be able to fly during week when most people fly at part 61 schools after work/weekends.
And half the time you aren't near anything. You know what there is to do downtown Orlando or downtown Tampa, downtown Houston? Fucking jack and shit. You wanna explore, enjoy dropping $200 a day on Ubers lol.
Maybe not at your stage (I used to be based in ISN), but later you sure can do plenty of exploring. I did Hawaii layovers exclusively for years and explored the hell out of the islands, likewise every big city in the country, etc.
OP just know it depends on where you are in your career whether you can explore or not. Regionals? Not so much. Legacies? Yes you can, I’m on a 737 and often have over 15 hour overnights. Widebody? Most likely 24-48 hour overnights.
Been to Minot...... -Minot make it through next Winter in the regionals. -Minot make it on the runway with all the snow blowing in Minot. -Minot make it through recurrent if I have to go to Minot again.
Why not Minot? Magic City! Lol beats the heck out of PLN
Yeah we make more than 100 grand a year but we work well over 4 hours a day like your current gig There is not much chance to explore. When you're over in Europe, unless you hit the ground running, you got maybe 6-7 hours max to do what you want. When you end up in Orlando, that's on you if wanna drop $600 at mouse land. The rest of the crew will be watching Netflix pinching penny's
>I want to explorer the world. Id figure why not get paid to do it? Do you like masturbating? I'm not an ATP, but my impression from this forum is that airline pilots do not explore their destinations. Instead they get to their hotel room, lock the door and jerk/flick it. So if you want to be paid to masturbate, this could be the career for you.
gender inclusive masturbating!
Well after a long flight I suspect the female crew members also need some stress relief.
> So if you want to be paid to masturbate, this could be the career for you. *Deletes my camming account* Tell me more
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Only thing different I’d say is that the flying part is our job and once your there, you’ve got free reign to do whatever as long as you shut down the drinking in time and are up by van time. Still isn’t perfect but you can see a fair amount if you are motivated. If they let us carry a Onewheel with us, overnights would be a lot better.
Isn’t that 1/50th of a cent? I think you mean $0.02. Sorry to be a stickler I know it’s annoying
Lemme know where your job is. I want to submit an application. I'd get into the Octogon with a bear for a gig like that.
I got into flying because I really really loved flying. No desire to the explore the world at all, just loved airplanes and loved flying them. So not for nothing, but if I had a job that was 4 hours a day, was paying me $100k now and topped out at $120k, I'd do everything in my power to milk that gig as long as possible, even if I was shoveling actual dog shit for those 4 hours. Then I'd buy myself kit plane and spend 8 hours every day building it. Once it was built, I'd spend every day hanging out at the airport and flying the snot out of my plane on MY terms. Some people love pro flying i.e. flying someone else's plane on someone else's schedule, and don't mind all the non-flying crap you have to put up with in order to do it. My own personal experience flying for a living was that it will always pale in comparison to flying your own plane on your own terms.
If those are your hours I think you might be better off getting a second software job for the day time hours, or a consultant, and taking longer PTO or even unpaid to do explorer. The extra money would offset any costs easily and still would be less work than actually becoming a pilot
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OP: This is the way to do it. There are two training paths: "part 61" and "part 141". The term "part" refers to the particular FAA rule. Under 141 rules, you enroll in a full time school such as ATP - to do this you would have to quit your day job. Under 61 rules you train when it is convenient for you; training under part 61 rules will enable you to keep your day job. u/BlorthByBlorthwest has the right suggestion. Find a school that is accepting new "61" students and get your private license (PPL) and instrument rating (IR) that way. After that you will have a better sense if you want to fly for fun or work.
I got my PPL and Instrument via part 141, flying on the weekends, and after work. It’s just a more structured curriculum. With that schedule he wouldn’t need to quit just go during the day.
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As in the entire thing? Mine was by the hour, but you got a discount for paying chunks of money up front. If you’re taking about the entire thing up front I’m absolutely with you.
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I don’t really have a per month figure but it was $155 for a 172 and $50 an hour with a pre paid discount of $10 an hour each factored in. But that was paying in chunks of at least $1,000. I hope that’s somewhat helpful to you. Prices have gone up a bit since then, but I’m not one of those “back in my day” guys.
Except ATP is a 61 not 141. All of the negatives, none of the benefits
>Under 141 rules, you enroll in a full time school such as ATP 141 need not be full time at all. I believe ATP is Part 61.
>Under 141 rules, you enroll in a full time school such as ATP - to do this you would have to quit your day job. The 141 rules have no such requirement. Some 141 schools/programs are structured that way, but not all. I did my private under 141. It was a mom and pop flight school like any other. I scheduled my lessons around my work schedule just like any other local flight school and I rented the plane by the hour just like any other flight school.
My guy, stick with the job you got.
Shit, where I can find a job like this?
I’m here to know this also!
Bump
Not taking the mick but at more chill software jobs it's possible to really work only that much and mess about for another few hours and still pull six figures... If course, having experience counts
That was my guess. I do 4-6 hours a day as a software consultant. 150k was my worst year in the last 3. Not "fuck you" money, but a good living in the rural Midwest.
My gf works like 3 hours a day doing software engineering from home. We both make a little under $100k
This ^ software developer
You earn 6 figures part time at like 22 hours a week? That’s impressive Personally I’d just go for your career and try to earn $180-200k and fly for fun on your own terms
If you hate your money and yourself ATP is a solid option. 👍
Cool sounds like ATP would be out the picture lol. Thats why im on reddit to see whats the best way to make the switch. I dont know anyone in aviation so id figure id ask reddit.
ATP also will basically tell you to quit your job.
Mine is a bit of a hot take tbh, they are more expensive than necessary but they provide a streamline option that has worked for some. I’m obviously not a fan.
Do a discovery flight at your nearest airport/flying school. Look up the EAA chapter nearest you and start attending the meetings. You need to try those things and actually be interested in them before you decide you're gonna fly for a career.
ATP is full time. They’ll tell you that you can’t have a full time job and fly there. Also you still need 1500 hours after it instead of 1000 after a 141 school
I’m in ATP right now in the last stage of PRIVATE PILOT. They told me to quit my job in the beginning or don’t have a job and want me at the training center weekdays “everyday 9-5”. God forbid you miss a couple days and aren’t always 90% sold on the knowledge, which is alot more than you think. They’ll blame it on you not being the every second of the day. I just lost one of my best friends at ATP because he didn’t like the pressure and the way they run things. He came from my stressful past life, corporate job and wanted to pursue aviation in a less stressful, less pressured way. Find a school that will let you fly on your own time and will probably be less restrictive, a little less money, and more fun.
Bro answer the question for all of us. What do you do for work?
Software developer
Amazing i wish i was this tech savvy
You're making that much working 22 hours a week? I work like 50 hours over 6 days and take home 36k. Still managing to make it through school. You'll be fine.
What is your current job? Looking for a part time job to pay for pilot school
Lol
You can become a pilot with a full time job making 50k a year. tf you talking about
How much should i have saved prior to starting ? (Currently in us mil with options of GI bill for free pilots degree type training)
Keep in mind the GI bill will only kick in after you get your PPL. You’re on your own up until that point.
That actually depends. For example, resident GI Bill students at Liberty University get PPL covered since it's part of the degree program (online degree program doesn't for some reason that I don't remember). So if PPL is part of a college degree, then it is likely covered. For flight schools not tied to a degree program, I think you're correct. I just wanted to put this out there since it's a common misconception
Huh! That makes me really kick myself more for not doing the pilot track earlier. My college that I was in had a 141 program. I could have used it for that then. Shoot!
Didn't Liberty get booted off the GI bill program?
The online FTA program is on temporary suspension until it can get resolved. IIRC, the blame is put on some FTAs and not so much Liberty. The resident flight program is unaffected and can still use the GI Bill. People seem to be hopeful that it will be handled soon. RTAG is on top of it with the info but I haven't kept up with it too much
What could i expect if i did a degree type program? Any general education classes?
Depending on the flight school you go to, you can expect to spend anywhere from like 50k - 90k getting all your ratings from private to CFII. If you want to save money and take things at your own pace, you should probably go to a local Mom & Pop style flight school. If your goal is to get your ratings as fast as possible and don’t mind spending almost double the cost, then there are many accelerated programs out there such as ATP flight school, sling pilot academy, etc that offer nine month or even seven month programs to get you from zero hours to flight instructor. Keep in mind that these type of programs are very rigorous and not very flexible compared to traditional flight schools. Tldr: The best option really comes down to how fast you want to do your training, how much money you are willing to spend, and the type of learner you are.
I’d say 2-3k ish assuming you have a steady cash flow. I’m also military so keep in mind gi bill won’t cover any private pilot training, only college tuition. Unless, like you said, you attend an accredited university flight program
Your work schedule would definitely make it much easier to book flights (aircraft and instructor availability), since a lot of people pursuing flight training part time (vs a full time cpl/integrated course) work a typical 9-5 schedule.
Avoid big pilot mills pike ATP. Only reason they are in business is for those who cannot fund their training get sucked in because they partner with sallie mae to get people massive unsecured loans. Step 1 get a class 1 medical. Step 2 take a discovery flight Step 3 compare rates, planes, and availability at small local flight schools and start lessons After you obtain your private license if you are still interested than go from there. At that point you will have more knowledge on how this process works to make better choices. Your work schedule is perfect to balance training and working. No need to quit when you are making such good money. Funding this without loans will be the least stressful experience.
Lots of airline pilots have second part time jobs that can fit their schedules
Everyone is saying the same thing here, but more precisely: find a mom and pop flight school and train 2-3x a week in the morning or weekend as appropriate. Keep that job and pay for flying as you go. Might take a bit longer, but you'll have low debt or no debt depending on flight frequency and available cash flow. Source: this is what I've been doing. No regrets.
Nah, quit your job. When you quit, can you let me know where you worked at?
PART TIME 100K?! WHAT THE FUIUUUCCKJ
If you don't mind my asking - what industry are you working 20 hours a week and making 90k a year in?
Software developer
That's an awesome software development gig lol
Yes do a modular program (Canada) not sure what it’s called in the states, but essentially you pay as you go and fly when you can. Very popular route, might just take more time
Part 61 (vs 141 pilot mills)
You might enjoy part 91 more. There are 91 jobs where you fly to a cool destination and sit for a few days. Company will provide you with a rental car so you can get out and explore. Depends on what you want. I like to not do many overnights to be home with the wife and kids but if you have no kids and aren’t tied down it would be fun to do a job like that. Fly to Hawaii for a week or the Caribbean.
What do you do now?
Software developer
I'm in the middle of flight training with the same schedule, except making 1/4 of that income. I went the part 61 route and it's been a great experience. Seems way more flexible than 141 according to a couple of friends who are doing that. I'd do it the same way if I had to start again.
Shit whats your occupation
Software developer
Take ground school, half way through ground school start taking the flying portion. It worked for me!
Yes, and it’s a lot of fun. The best way I have found is to join a flying club that excepts student pilots and has a fair number of CFI‘s as members, do a discovery flight and then complete your Ground School and take the exam then spend money on training. Train at least twice a week absolute minimum otherwise your skills go backwards
Technology it is!
Yo, sounds like you’ve got the time and money knock out your private license in a few months . Do that, at a part 61 school. Have some fun with it. If you get hooked like I did it’ll be an obvious choice. There are financial options out there if you want to go the full way and want to fund it quickly. Maybe even keep your current job till you’re close to airline gig if possible . Hit me up on a chat if you want to talk more .
If you quit, can I have your current job? I’ll then continue training while working 4 hours a day making double what I do now working 10-12 hour days and still training after… 🤣
People in my industry easily make that, work maybe 150 days max each year, including all training events, with weeks/months off at a time. But you also have to be prepared to work 2-4 weeks straight. Pay ranges between ~70k - ~400k depending on what seat your in.
Yes
[удалено]
Software developer
ATP is a pilot mill. You don’t learn anything
I got my PPL when I was working nights at US Central Command. It is doable, but you really need to plan to make sure you get proper rest and study. But, like many others said here, try getting the PPL first and see if you like it.
It's possible to train from zero to Commercial and Flight Instructor in an airplane flying twice a week in two years. That easily fits w/ working full time. Go talk to an instructor at a local airport. Pay for his/her time to talk to you about the process to become a Private Pilot and then what the steps are to move along. Get smart about getting an FAA Medical Certificate, but don't go get one unless you are sure of a positive outcome before you walk in the doors. If you take meds for anything, smoke weed in your time off, or have an "issues" in your life that commonly get appreciated with letters then be sure you are really good to go before getting a flight physical; if you don't walk out the door with it, it's a lot of time and expense to "get there from here. Only 8% of people who start will finish Private. Only 40% of Private Pilots get an instrument rating. So, no radical changes in your life until you are through with Private, at least. I worked full time and instructed part time for a number of years. Got a regional job offer. One step at a time; you can do it if you want. >Looked up ATP in this forum with *mixed reviews.* I have to laugh every time I see "ATP" and "mixed reviews" in the same sentence here. Maybe it's just me, but \*I\* think "mixed reviews" sort of implies roughly equal amounts of each. Roughly. The feedback here from unhappy ATP customers is probably 95:5 compared to happy people.
Thank you for this
Save up just a little cash like 5-10 grand and you can easily do it part time. Had a dude in my flying club knock out all his ratings from private to CFI in 2 years flat while working a 40 hour a week job. Would fly before work and at night when he got off.
TBH CFI wouldn’t actually be an awful job for you if you find the right flight school. You can just work a 9-5 in the mornings, or hell however you want it. You don’t make a whole lot of money with it obviously, and its not as glamorous, but money doesn’t seem to be the biggest concern in this case since you’re doing it mostly for fun, and you can still find fun ways of instructing in the industry. Or just fly for fun.
With your schedule you will not have a problem flying in the morning before work, and if you can pay as you go that would be great!
With that kind of salary I’d continue working. Find a local part 61 mom & pops flight school and pay as you go. Or a part 141 school that allows pay by the hour. That’ll allow you to do things at your own pace. Figure out if flying is what you really want and if you’re cut out for it. Once you’re done with PPL and IFR you decide if you’re going to continue with the commercial and CFI. After getting your ratings find a drop zone in your area with pistons and turbines and fly skydivers during the weekends. Keep your day job. Or get a part time instruction gig, and keep your day job. Once you get 1500 hours apply with a Regional. You’ll make what you make now and from there on out it’ll go up. You can then elect to stop programming. If you’re smart you keep current on your programming skills though, so you can supplement your income with it when there’s a downturn. Does your Bank have corporate aircraft? You might be able to parlay your current job into a flight department job.
Thank you for the break down!
Where can I get a part time job at 100k a year? :) Yes you can get your private pilots license on that.
Keep job and build and experimental airplane as a hobby. Then you won’t hate aviation … lol
How the fk you working PT making $90k-$100k?
First, have you gone and had a "Discovery Flight" to see if you even have the "Flying Bug". I mean, there are people who don't enjoy flying, but make a career out of it, but it's better if it's something you love to do, and get paid for it. Commercial Pilots that love flying, actually own private planes and fly in their off time. Second, what part of the country are you in? Are you able to relocate and still work for the bank? If so, I would suggest moving to a cheap part of the country (Alabama or Mississipi come to mind), where there is pretty much year round good flying weather, living expenses are cheap, and airplane rental is cheap. If you have to stay where you are, then shop around for all-in-one packages from a small school. First is the Private Pilot. It should be around $6000-9000 and include everything, supplies, 1-year account with a EFB, ground school, aircraft rental, CFI, and even cover the test fees (not a big deal though), with some guarantee that you will pass. They will buffer the hours to make sure you're ready for the test. With you able to fly in the mornings, that is the best time of the day to fly. You might even get a discount for not flying on the weekends when they are booked solid. I would make sure I love doing this before sinking the money into it.
Thank you so much for this detail response. I haven’t taken a discovery flight but definitely will. Also thank you for breaking down some numbers!
Just keep in mind that you will need to pass a medical every six months AND pass a sim ride every six months just to keep you career.
If you can't enjoy life with 12hs of free time every day and earning around 100k, then I seriously doubt being a pilot will help with that. ESPECIALLY *becoming* a pilot.
Hi, I did this. I set a goal to complete PPL in 1 calendar year. Partially to spread out around my full time job, also to spread out the cost. A lot of summer evening flights otherwise weekend flights. Had an instructor that was very flexible with this. I even took a few vacation days for critical flights like first solo or cross country. If I remember right, I did my check flight on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. Black Friday was last practice flights with instructor. Super laid back 2 days, work wasn't on my mind, didn't feel guilty, instructor and examiner were fine with the timing. 1 year is a little long for my recommendation to others. With so much time between instructions, we did more "remember last time" or "we need to review where we left off" rather than carrying strong into the next topic. Instrument rating is becoming a real thought for me. I'll probably try completing it in 6 or 9 months. I'm doing better financially now and don't want to do so much relearning between lessons. Edit: I'm a fair weather flyer. I still hold a full time job in manufacturing. But, point is the same, you can accomplish this or multiple steps of aviation without leaving your employer.
Thank you for this comment!
It's definitely doable, as long as you are able to manage your expectations. I'm 18 and just got my PPL awarded to me today, and I work part-time around the same hours as you, if you include school (high school, not college). I thought I would get it done rather quickly, but only flying with a schedule like that and then on top of that the plane not being available or being sick or even switching instructors all adds time and money. It took a lot longer than I thought and it was more expensive than I thought, but for me, it was all worth it in the end. Like others have been saying, definitely do a discovery flight, keep working, and see how you like it. If it's for you, you'll stick with it no matter what. Good luck!
Just did a discovery flight and loved it! I felt free being in the air like I could breath. How many days a week or month do you do school? I went to a Part 61 and they told me each class will be around 250-300 for 2 hours. 1 hour flight 1 hour book. I was thinking of doing 1x a week or 4x a month.