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Originally Posted by Airdale  You absolutely have some great points! I'm not saying ATP is the golden rule of flight schools. I do think the Career Pilot Program is bit expensive, I think its $44,995 now. It was $37,995 when I did it. Not a whole heck of a lot difference, but for the training and multi time I got, I thought it was a great deal compared to the mega bucks other places like, DCA and RAA wanted. I may have paid slightly more at ATP compared to a few other schools, but in no way did I ever feel like ATP short changed me on what I was getting. I wasn't taught just to pass a checkride, I received very very good training from my instructors, which is what I have tried to do with my students.
The short term programs are tough, no doubt. You have to come prepared. But I only had 3 students bust a checkride. 1 was a career pilot that just made a goof, the other 2 were ATP guys who were just horrible, but insisted they keep going and try anyway. If you can't fly a two engine ILS approach to mins, you're not going to pass the ATP checkride with a single engine ILS in 4 hrs of flight time. I tried to tell them that, but they found out the hard way with a pink slip. I believe they tell you that before you sign up for the ATP, the MEI or Commercial multi add-on, that you need to be IFR current. |
I'll agree, you can't beat the guaranteed multi at ATP, especially if you decide to instruct there. Makes it worth it for a good many student.
I'll admit... I'm biased on two things - money for training and overall experience.
I believe in getting the most quality training at the cheapest price. And I believe that the multi time should be high caliber. I'm a fan of the local, properly researched schools for the ratings, and CFI-ing/freight for the experience.
Knowing that many local schools can't offer multi instruction to new instructors and knowing that some people's situations could make freight flying unmanageable, perhaps the ATPs of the world can do some good for some people.