Originally Posted by WorkinStiff

Just some personal observations and opinions derived from 26 years in the airline industry.

Hours in a logbook are not indications of skill or competency. Building time is not the same as learning to be a skilled, competent pilot. The quality of the time is important. There are no shortcuts to learning in this industry. It's an old, worn out saying, but it's very true. You now have a license to learn. After thousands of hours in everything from part 121 regional turboprops to transport category jets, I'm still learning. There's no substitute for PIC time, flight instructing, flying part 135 freight, etc. It's hard work and it doesn't pay well, but it teaches you volumes and builds confidence. It refines airmanship and instrument skills. Things you will surely need to have, because there are folks out there in the left seat who do not have them. Most of them get away with it because of a competent First Officer. A First Officer is not in the aircraft to "handle the radios". A First Officer is expected to have the knowledge to make decisions and operate the aircraft in an emergency or in the event the Captain becomes incapacitated. Over the years, I've flown with pilots who have taken the shortcuts, a few were competent, most were not. It usually takes one leg to rear it's ugly head. Don't expect to be treated with kindness if you fit into this category. This is a very serious business. If you don't care enough to learn, don't aggravate those of us who have. I have quite a few friends who are Captains at one of the large regionals that is famous for hiring low time, "flight academy graduates". Almost all of them are considering changing careers. Most Captains are more than happy to teach what they have learned over the years. Most will also make your life a living hell if you expect them to be flight instructors. If you must take the shortcuts, you better bring your A game, because if you don't, your job won't be much fun. It's not "jealousy". It's not wanting to be on the flight deck with a dumbass you can't depend on.

I also fly because I love it. I also love the income, though shrinking, that it provides for my family. It's shrinking because airlines know there will always be an endless stream of prostitutes who will work for next to nothing. They will for a while anyway. After a year or two, they will be the one's crying about low pay and bad working conditions.

If you must be a pilot, take the time to learn how to be one. Riding in the right seat of a jet aircraft does not make you a safe one. Your passengers and fellow crewmembers deserve no less. Money seems not be a problem for you, If so, congratulations! Most of us are not that fortunate. Do us all a favor and find a corporate job that pays crap instead of helping lower everyone else's paycheck.