Originally Posted by
DROCK
Navy Helicopter guy here. Will retire in two years, want to go airlines and eligible for both MGIB and 9-11. Anyone know the best use of the two programs to maximize fix wing training? All of my time is rotary except for primary. I was thinking about just going to ATP and starting from scratch, but that would probably be a waste of money?
Hi, I just did this, sans retirement. I left active duty, and shortly beforehand, I used my 9/11 GI Bill at a local FBO to earn my commercial multi-engine rating. Afterwards, I spent a couple bucks to build some hours on my own. The multi cost me about 5 months worth of GI bill benefits. I spent 3-4k on random flights to maintain currency and buy hamburgers. This is easily done on an active duty paycheck.
Since then, I landed a "entry level" job that gained me some more multi-engine time since I did not meet the ATP minimums (250 hrs PIC/SIC in an
airplane). I did this through some shrewd networking with random people who were very helpful. This job has since landed me a more lucrative position, but still not a career position.
I have been off AD for less than a year, and I have a job that (while not mindblowing) can support my family in the fixed wing world. It can be done - just be patient and look forward. PM me for more.