Originally Posted by
egothrasher
Just recently interviewed and received an offer for a FO position with Air Cargo Carriers. With the FO it is a year contract and 7,500 commitment.
I am currently with a survey company, and at ~940 hours, plan on hitting 1200 by the summer.
Their chief pilot was of the opinion that it was good to do the FO, as then you get used to the operations and larger aircraft. Versus just jumping straight into a larger plane solo, as most companies are solo IFR. I've had several colleagues though who have done the 1200 route and seem to not have a problem.
Any insight, suggestions, past experiences, all appreciated.
Thanks!
Short answer: It doesn't matter.
Long Answer: I did the 135.243c thing and went single-pilot IFR. I was under the impression it would make me a more proficient pilot for the rest of my career. Others did Air Cargo Carriers, etc. thinking it would improve their ability to function as a crew. In reality none of us had trouble working as a crew or flying IFR. However, other guys made it to better-paying jobs faster, AND they did it with failures and such in their records by just plopping into regional airlines.
So just take the shortest pathway between your current position and money. Don't worry.