I spent the Lost Decade at a regional where I couldn’t upgrade.

I bailed to a corporate gig for nearly nine years until hiring started up again. By that time, I had the required 1000 TPIC, three type ratings, and a lot of experience in a multitude of roles.

The airlines in 2015 were looking at more than just 121 time.

Of course, the diverse experience of the mixture of 121 and Part 91 over 16 years isn’t the same as an entry level corporate pilot.

A $40K type rating has value, yes. One must consider the long game here—and upgrade times at a regional are relatively short compared to the Lost Decade where upgrade times were either very long or non-existent.

Be sure to read the fine print as far as training costs and service commitment.

How much flight time will you get in the next three years in a corporate jet? Captain seat may be limited by company insurance requirements (mine was 3000 total and an ATP).

While any jet experience is valuable, a regional pilot will be immersed in Part 121 and fly 500-800 hours a year without question.

The corporate gig will fly much much less and spend more time waiting on passengers. It’s also tougher to build time at Mach .92.

When the next hiring wave happens, you need to be in the position to apply with competitive credentials, and all indicators point to the next five years.

Corporate may not be the path at this time for that candidate.

Be wary of the old “shiny jet” syndrome, and focus on the long game’s goals.