Originally Posted by rickair7777

I would do part 61 unless you are a military vet with GI Bill, or attending an aviation university program. In the later case, you can get an R-ATP with less tha 1500 hours, and get to a regional sooner (1000 hours for BS degree). Part 61 typically has lower hourly rates, and is a more flexible program which will likely save more time and money. The prices you mentioned sound reasonable for SOCAL. DANGER: Never deposit any large sum with a flight school (except a large university). They often go out of business with no notice. Also, you have more leverage if the quality is not to your liking. If they offer a large discount for money up front, you would have to weigh that risk vs. their reputation, and how long they've been around.

I would get your PPL on the side, before you quite your job. Do some recreational flying and see how you like. Then start on the instrument rating, if you're digging that then you can quit your job and commit to training.

When selecting a school, DO NOT trust the managers or take their word for anything. Talk to other current or past students (you can find them here on APC), or hang out on the ramp or parking lot at the school.

For airline career advice, come here or talk to someone who has been at a regional for a few years, or been at a major for a few years. Student pilots, CFI's, junior regional pilots don't know enough about what's going on. Senior major guys (especially ex-military) are usually out of touch with today's industry conditions. Ideally you should talk to people who are competitive and have apps in to majors, or have recently been hired at a major.