Originally Posted by
LBApilot
Hey guys. Been stalking the thread. I just moved to Boston. I have about 1300tt and 400hr in a C-421. I guess I'm wondering what commuting would be like to stl, and how long would it take before I could get to logan? I live literally 6 minutes from logan.
Im okay with being FO for a while, and learning NE flying, busy airspace, 135, etc.. But I don't want to be an FO for too long, especially in a plane less complicated than the one I flew for the last two years.
I guess I'm just looking for some insights. I don't want to apply and not enjoy QOL and quit the day i find something "better." (I hope I'm not sounding too prissy, just stressed)
Hi LBA,
Former 9k pilot here who just left, but commuted for almost 3 years while at Cape Air. This is how is works: If you have 1300TT, you would be probably top of the list for a new hire for Cape Air as they are looking for higher time guys that can upgrade quickly. You don’t have a choice as to when you upgrade. As soon as you have 1500TT you are going to ATP-CTP and taking your ATP check ride. Now comes where you are based. It all depends on what is available when you upgrade. You get to bid from the list of open spots. I live in Idaho and commuted to Puerto Rico and Billings for almost 3 years. Wasn’t great but I made it work. All new pilots sign a 1 year to 18 month contract and that contract time starts the day you take your ATP check ride. Not sure what they are offering right now with the pandemic. Boston has always been senior base but spots do open up. You can always take one of the surrounding bases and just take a 9k flight over to your base the day of and start work; ie hyannis, P-town, etc. and then fly home after your shift. I didn’t commute every day, I just did my 4 on 4 off shift. I really enjoyed my time at Cape Air, the only stressful part for me was the commute, but I survived and never missed a day of work because of it. There are plenty of options basing wise especially if you live on the east coast. PM me if you need any help, advice, or more questions. Happy to help.