First off, I'm ALMOST done with my CFI rating and in the position now to where I've been reflecting. All through flight training, I always thought about going to the airlines initially (maybe corporate after) but never thought about the path in between finishing my training and the airlines. Lately, this has been rolling around in my mind.

I have been looking EVERYWHERE online for differently opportunities. So my question to you guys whether you're just getting into the industry or a seasoned pilot is do you think it is better to flight instruct for the experience or go with a position that will get you the flight time the fastest?

I work for a cargo airline in the offices just doing small jobs so I get the chance to talk to our guys all the time. It seems as if people who flight instructed are bias toward flight instructing and other guys who did other things are geared more toward getting the hours the quickest.

I also understand that teaching teaches you as well. What I am not saying is that flight instructing is useless. It is definitely useful and I know I would have fun with it; however, in this time of this 'hiring wave' should someone sit around and get comfy with instructing or go out there and grab every opportunity to just build that time.

The opportunities I am looking at include flight instructing, aerial surveying, and flying jumpers at a well known well operated (clean) DZ who operate a 182, 206, and two caravans. I know a guy who flew for them and built 1,900 hours in two years.

I apologize for the long post. I'm just trying to listen to different people's advice and the path that they chose. Thanks guys!