Originally Posted by
Sambeaux
Interesting thread. I've been offered a FO position in a metro flying cargo and a job flying pipeline in a cessna. The catch is that the cargo gig while it is better experience is with a company with a less than stellar reputation and a significant training contract (length and money). The pipeline gig will allow me to get to a regional significantly quicker (like 130ish hrs/month vs 70ish) but I am concerned that the experience won't adequately prepare me for a 121 environment. What I've gathered from this thread is that if you're an average pilot who is motivated and has a strong work ethic you should be ok. I'd like to tap into some of the collective wisdom of this group so any input is appreciated.
I know I've said this before, but don't sign a training contract to fly for any 135 freight company, they're all hurting for pilots and most won't give you any training worth a damn. An SIC type in a metro is about the most useless type you can get in the real world. If you really want the job tell them your interested, but will not sign a training contract, if they won't hire you it's probably for the best anyways.
Not that 135 cargo isn't a bad way to get some initial experience, just be smart about it, and be careful. People do die doing this job no car part is worth your life.