Flight Training Question

[njboeingfan]

Hi all. I am going to start my instrument training this summer and then get my multi all at my local FBO. I would love to work for express jet, and I read that ATP has an agreement for lower times. Should I spend the extra money at ATP or do my ratings at the FBO? I am 33 years old. I was wondering if I could get hired with the min. time for an ATP grad. Also, does having a JD help or hurt? THanks.

[DE727UPS]

"Also, does having a JD help or hurt?" You mean Juris Doctor? I'd say it fills the "I have a degree, square". That's not even necessary at the regional level, anyhow, but is if you want to move on.

I don't know about XJT, but Skywest is 1000/850 for ATP guys. You have to ask yourself is going to ATP worth getting hired 150 hours sooner. Maybe, maybe not. Depends on how much you like your FBO, the price difference, and the chances of getting a CFI job when you're done.

You might ask the question at the ATP forums. It's very active and CaptBob is an XJT guy. Be sure to check out any flight school in person, and ask around, before signing on any dotted line.

[Minnesota_Flyer]

Originally Posted by njboeingfan

Hi all. I am going to start my instrument training this summer and then get my multi all at my local FBO. I would love to work for express jet, and I read that ATP has an agreement for lower times. Should I spend the extra money at ATP or do my ratings at the FBO? I am 33 years old. I was wondering if I could get hired with the min. time for an ATP grad. Also, does having a JD help or hurt? THanks.

I'm sort of in your shoes -- 34 y/o and a J.D. From what I've been able to gather, I really doubt that the J.D. will hurt (there are many, many former lawyers flying for the airlines) and probably would help, although only slightly. It's something that might help you to stand out/give you something interesting to talk about at the interview. It also helps to show that you can learn and master advanced material. But I think that's about it. It's not going to automatically put you ahead of everyone else -- just one helpful piece to the puzzle that is you.

[meyer336]

With the pay that the regionals start out at I would not suggest to take any loans. If you have the money saved up for ATP then do it. If not then I would suggest flying with your FBO.