Originally Posted by
Clay
I have 3800TT, an ATP issued in 1989. 500 night, 200 instrument, 2000 XC.
A majority of those hours have been personal flying and most recently flight instructing primary students. I have 30 hours of turbo prop time but that was 25 years ago... I have very little experience with the glass cockpit. I retired from a career other than flying (ATC) and I am considering PS. I was interested in doing the FO thing first, then as my experience gained I would transition it Captain. That was my thinking.
After emailing the HR department they sent me an application for direct entry Captain. How hard is it to wrap your hands and mind around the APEX systems and go from steam gauges to the new systems? With the posts that I have been reading, seems like it's going to be some time before FO classes start again.
Should I wait for the next FO class or go for the direct entry Captain slot? I am a solid pilot, but that was all part 91 flying. Are there any PS pilot's here that can offer your suggestions? Thanks in advance.
There's a lot of pilots that had the hours and went straight from their 'pleasure' flying into the regionals, so they don't appear to have any problem. I know one specifically at Beechtalk.com that did it. Go for the captain. You'll be fine. Heck, go for a regional if you're not any older than 62 or 63. I've heard of a few 63 year olds hired at the regionals even though they would have to retire in two years. Go for it.