Originally Posted by
4020Driver
Absolutely and agree wholeheartedly on doing the self-eval. I try to fly as much actual IFR as I can when time allows to build that skill set. I’ve been planning to get my ATP-CTP class complete and ATP written passed before even thinking about a 121 job. I’ve also contemplated getting a “cheap” type (i.e. a 500 series Citation) knock out the ATP ride. Would that be prudent before leaving my “day job” to ensure to myself (and possible employers) I can pass a ride in something more substantial than something piston?
Maybe. The downside is obviously cost and also the risk of a checkride failure (I tell folks these day to mostly avoid checkrides they don't have to take, because the ramifications of failure are so high and far reaching). I know a guy who had a legacy CJO revoked after he hooked a ride... for a seaplane rating. He should have saved that one until after probation...
The upside is that if you already have the ATP, the examiner on your regional type ride has a *little* more flexibility to retrain on the spot and rewind the ride if you already have an ATP. If he chooses to use that flexibility.
I would probably only do the ATP in advance if you do have some concerns about keeping up with the pace of a jet (a citation would be a happy speed and complexity transition on the road from props to glass jets). That would give you some comfort-zone before you quit your real job.