Hello,
I’m 42, no degree, but looking to change careers. I’ve been looking at the ATP Flight School, but wanted to get a real world feel for what the job market looks like for a new pilot.
Here are a few questions.
1. With no degree, but several years of college credits, how would that affect my career as a pilot?
2. What does the job market look like right now for new pilots?
3. With no degree, as a new pilot, what types of jobs would I be looking at?
4. How good is the
ATP Flight School?
I appreciate and accept any input.
Thanks,
Richard
Hi Richard, welcome aboard.
There's a lot to unpack from your questions (and all the answers are available on this forum if you use the search function).
Here's my two cents...
The first thing you need to answer is what's Richard's definition of a "good career." That will gauge how prepared you are for this job. Are you ready to live on less than $30k/yr for at least 5 years (or more)? Can you live with the idea of living out of a suitcase for 200 days a year (maybe for the rest of your life)? If you have kids and wife/gf, are you all ready to live such separate lives?
Secondly, get your private pilot license before anything. It's your introduction to this world and will give you a taste of whether or not you are cut out for this. Some people realize it's just not for them.
Thirdly, any airline/charter job is going to require you to have a good amount of experience before hand. That's a given. You'll need to get all your instructor ratings and begin building time for yourself. Depending on where you work, it may take 1 year or 5 years to get the hours you need. That means working as a flight instructor.
And lastly, the airline pilot career "pyramid" isn't that tall anymore. Don't expect to be making big bucks or flying fancy jets anytime soon (or ever). You'll need to start out at a regional airline and work your way up. That means some rough commutes and an unstable company that can kick you out at any time (read: pilot shortage is BS).
If you have the money, maybe you want to get that college degree and fly for fun instead. After all, when your career is on the backend of a boom, you may need a plan B. A college degree is still a factor at many reputable airlines (unless you got some serious time).
This isn't a job - it's a way of life.
Good luck!