38 y.o. soon to be retired cop looking for flt trng in NYC

[franknyc]

I will be retiring from the police department in less than 5 years and I have always wanted to be a professional pilot. I have many questions that I hope you guys can help me out with.

Since I have to work full time for the next 5 years, going away for flight school is out of the question. My goal for the next 5-6 years is to get my commercial, multi, instrument and CFI certs. What's the best way to go about this? What's a good time line and more importantly, where should I go? NYC/LI/parts of Jersey closest to NYC would be ideal.
Also, how much will this eventually cost (estimate)

[desertdog71]

Originally Posted by franknyc

Also, how much will this eventually cost (estimate)

Your sanity, your manhood, and your life savings.

My suggestion is that you go to all the local airports and sit down with the instructors and management. Get a feel for the people and the operation. That is really the best thing to do at this time. Also start by getting your Private license and then re-evaluate your ambitions.

[skidz]

Originally Posted by franknyc

What's the best way to go about this? What's a good time line and more importantly, where should I go? NYC/LI/parts of Jersey closest to NYC would be ideal.
Also, how much will this eventually cost (estimate)

Your local FBO would be a good place to go, the cost from zero time to commercial could be anywhere from 15-20k to a lot more. It goes quicker if you have enough funds to start with. You also need to devote at least 2-3 times a week or the progress will be slow and you will spend more money too.

[pedro]

Originally Posted by desertdog71

Your sanity, your manhood, and your life savings.

My suggestion is that you go to all the local airports and sit down with the instructors and management. Get a feel for the people and the operation. That is really the best thing to do at this time. Also start by getting your Private license and then re-evaluate your ambitions.

I made my choice of FBO based on attitude and how they presented themselves to me. They were the first one to tell me to not expect the min pricing and they werent gauranteeing me a job or anything. They seemed honest and their fleet (while small) seemed well maintained. Go with your gut on who they present themselves to be. (and do a little research...BBB...etc...Im sure being a cop will help out with that)

[Flying Ninja]

I don't know where you live working for the NYPD but you have a couple of airports on Long Island: Republic Airport (KFRG) and MacArthur Airport (KISP). KFRG has many schools to choose from. I've visited all of them and my personal opinion is that you stay away from Academy of Aviation. The owner talks a good game, but doesn't quite deliver. He's out for his own interest more than yours. You can check Nassau Flyers (my experience is that they are a professional bunch) or LF Academy (a bit of a hodge podge but you'll get the job done). Out of KISP, you can hit up Heritage Flight Academy. The folks there are very professional and the instructors there are friendly. They have a nice facility as well and prices are very competitive on Long Island. There are other schools as well that are out there but you'll pay a lot more to get started than necessary.

You can also choose to solicit for a freelance flight instructor but you'll still have to locate an airplane to rent. If you have any additional questions, feel free to PM me and I'd be happy to help you get started.