Originally Posted by
jsfBoat
I want to get my A&P, and maybe my AI. Is it possible to have a full time job at either a regional or a Pt 135 operation and attend A&P school, or is better to wait on getting a flying job until I receive the A&P. i'd like to get the A&P for a back up option and so that i could get into restoration projects, plus if I couldn't fly I could be a flight engineer (if they aren't gone too soon).
What about attending a traditional university while working as a pilot? I'm just debating whether I go finish my bachelors at a University, attend A&P school, or get a flying job and finish up my bachelors online some how.
I just finished A&P school here in Los Angeles. I graduated from RedStone College formally Northrop Rice.. I was working at Rockwell Collins and going to School full time. I did it with only 3 hours of sleep each night. Not only that but after you finish the school you have to prep yourself for 3 written exams General, Airframe and Powerplant. After that you have to prep for an Oral and Practical which takes about 2 days depending on your DME (Designated Mechanic Examiner).
I say do it. I'm on the same page as you. I did this as a backup career just in case in the future I loose my medical or somthing along those lines.
Remember... it's a lot of money!!! A&P school costsed me about $31k. I'm starting to regret thinking I could've spent that much money at a FBO to get all my training done.
It's almost impossible for you to work as a Pilot and a A&P mechanic. Most A&P Mechanics work about a 9-10 hour shift unless your working a part time SET schedule at a flight school. And on your first sentence you said "AI" I'm assuming you meant "IA". To keep your IA current you need to do an annual inspection within a 6 months period to keep it current. It's in FAR 65 somewhere I think... not to sure.
I regret a lot. I'm starting to wish I went to flight school instead. I'm confused on my goals right now.
I hope this information helped.
PeterK