PPL Program Interview

[IWExcelsiorE]

Are you interviewed before you start the PPL program? (Or do they save that for the ACPP program?) As of matter of fact, what's the whole process of applying for the PPL with ATP?

[fly8slep]

PPL is part of ATP ACPP, PPL students are ACPP students. Even though the price is much cheaper at ATP if you add in the PPL and ACPP cost, I suggest you do it at the local FBO and take the time to complete it. PPL license is the only license you probably shouldn't rush through and probably the hardest because not only is there a whole lot of new info but you also have to learn how to fly. Doing the PPL in 60 days is insanity, all you have learned at that point is how to pass an FAA check ride not much else, you'd probably be afraid to go up alone if it's windy, if there's a cloud in the sky or if the vis is less than 5 miles.

[SpiraMirabilis]

Huh, I did the ATP PPL and I was ready to perform all the maneuvers in the PTS within standards, fly straight and level and land in almost any amount of wind condition or direction (within reason.) Also the various other things. Essentially I felt confident in my ability to fly single engine airplanes, navigate, etc.
Compared to the ACPP I did not feel rushed at all.
It was one of the hardest checkrides I did though, just because I did not know what to expect (never having done a checkride before.)

[C5Engineer]

I start the PPL (nationwide) here in Indianapolis next week. As far as getting into the program there was no interview or verification of my college transcripts or anything. They just had me get the financing, 1st class medical, and pick a location/date for the ACPP. I chose FTY for its proximity to home. I've heard the same advice about not rushing through the PPL training. That's one of the reasons I chose the nationwide program for it.

[SpiraMirabilis]

Good luck!

[txrevolution]

good luck

[Airdale]

Originally Posted by fly8slep

PPL is part of ATP ACPP, PPL students are ACPP students. Even though the price is much cheaper at ATP if you add in the PPL and ACPP cost, I suggest you do it at the local FBO and take the time to complete it. PPL license is the only license you probably shouldn't rush through and probably the hardest because not only is there a whole lot of new info but you also have to learn how to fly. Doing the PPL in 60 days is insanity, all you have learned at that point is how to pass an FAA check ride not much else, you'd probably be afraid to go up alone if it's windy, if there's a cloud in the sky or if the vis is less than 5 miles.

What? I'm sorry but I gotta raise a few flags here.

First of all, you didn't do the Private Pilot program at ATP - so on that note, I don't think its fair to make a comment like that about a program you didn't do.

Second of all, you haven't even started your career pilot training at ATP - if you think doing the PPL in 60 days is crazy, wait until you have 8 days for your multi- add on and 27 for your instrument...oh yeah and did I mention 14 days for 3 CFI ratings? I think you're getting a little ahead of yourself here bud.

I did the 60 day PPL and the ACPP. The private pilot program is about learning how to fly an airplane in VFR conditions. Its hardly about training you to pass checkride. How can they train you to pass a checkride without teaching you how to fly in the first place?

The 60 day PPL program is fast paced, just like the 90 day career pilot program. In those 60 days, you'll fly every day - weather permitting. Some days you'll fly for 3-5 hours. You are properly taught how to take-off and land and even how to do it in a crosswind. My first solo cross country I had to land back at Craig with a crosswind I shouldn't have been flying in. I did fine thanks to my instructor teaching me well.

The PPL program is a good way to get started at ATP. You are trained right from the moment you start, just like in the Career Pilot Program. And just like the 90 day ACPP, you fly nearly every single day. You eat, sleep and fly. When you train like that, your progression is very fast as long as you study and keep your head in the books.

Looking back, I think the PPL training was the easiest part of the journey. Because nobody really had any high expectations of you. Going for your Commercial or CFI ride - the stakes are higher and the examiners expect you to be a very solid pilot. In my experience, it was a good program that prepared me well for the ACPP.

Fly9slep, I'm not picking on you or trying to start something, I just don't think its fair to ATP and anyone considering the PPL program to make that comment without any experience.

[fly8slep]

Airdale no problem, how about we just drop this and you buy the beer.

[Airdale]

Originally Posted by fly8slep

Airdale no problem, how about we just drop this and you buy the beer.

Sounds like a plan to me! I wasn't trying to get personal with that post or anything. I did the PPL program and I thought it was well worth it. Saved me money too.

Goodluck with your ACPP, enjoy it! Its a fun program and the Seminole is an awesome airplane. Cross countries are probably the best part.