[PGA07]

Originally Posted by desertdog71

Just want to clarify something.

Although I am not a huge fan of some of the big academies, they do produce some good pilots. Remember everybody has to take the checkrides and pass to get the tickets. Also the ATP requires 1500 hours not 2500. While there are problems at SOME carriers with people not having the total time to upgrade it is not as common as you might think.

Also the academy route is not the ONLY way to get hired with low time. There are several jobs out there that require only 500TT like banner towing, skydive pilot, traffic watch, and yes some regionals. Of course there is also the CFI route. I did a little CFI work and also have flown Air Tours and both were great for expanding my knowledge and skills. Both are legitimate ways to gain knowledge and experience.

Main thing is that you need to do what is right for you. There are many paths that lead to the same place. There are good FBO's and Bad ones also. There are good academies and bad ones also.

The main thing you should concern yourself with is the quality of the instruction. Fancy planes and facilities don't mean squat in your logbook, and they sure will not help your skill level.

That's just my opinion anyways. The best suggestion is to find the guys on here that have the Job you want and seek their advice. You will not always like what they have to say, but believe me they know a hell of a lot better than you or I do.

Well said!

Thanks for clarifying the ATP mins.