Originally Posted by COTriple7
I'm an aspiring pilot on the verge of a very important as well as expensive decision. I have my decision narrowed down to two flight schools, flight safety and ATP. Both are fairly comparable in price and I've heard positive things about both schools. About me, I'm 24 and have relatively no flight time, aside from flying around in my buddy's piper several years ago. I've loved flying ever since I was little, and can think of no better job than an airline pilot. Time frame from start to finish is important, but so is the quality of instruction. I would really appreciate any info from anyone affiliated with these two schools.
Unless you have unlimited financial resources, make sure your school allows you to focus on the training required for your FAA ratings and doesn't force you to buy extra training like airline ops or jet training. That kind of stuff is not necessary but will cost a great deal.
You can get it all done for $30-35K at your local small airport, so if you are going to pay much more than that, you really need to understand WHY? and there had better be a really good reason (ie guaranteed job as a 747 or space-shuttle commander).