Originally Posted by
TheWeatherman
Option number 1 is definitely your best option. There is no rush, the pilot hiring climate is going to be great for years to come (unless there is another 9/11 type event).
Option 1 gives you the best chance of getting all your ratings without going into massive debt. Keep the job you have right now and fly a couple nights a week after work and during the weekend. When you get all your ratings and want to go full time CFI to build hours, then quit your job.
You don't want a massive amount of debt when you start the low paying years working for the regionals. A significant amount of your pay will go to paying interest on your loans.
Would you rather start working for the regionals in 3 years with $50,000 - $100,000 in debt, or 5 years with no debt?
Thanks a ton for your response! The only thing I see when looking at the numbers is that it doesn't seem like training at a smaller local operation would save that much money. ATP, American Flyers, US Aviation, all of these guys seem to be in the $55-$75k range for roughly 300 hours + ratings through MEI.
It seems like you'll spend roughly the same at my local FBO if not more. At the very least it seems like one of those Part 141 schools will land a CFI job a little easier and perhaps provide a gateway to an interview. The other worry I have is that a college education will be pretty much standard by the time I'm at 1,500 hours. Should I be taking classes with one of the schools that offer a college program in conjunction with their training so I don't end up at 1,500 hours 2-3 years down the road and then need to pursue a degree!
As always, everyones insight is greatly appreciated.