I wonder how enrollment compares at the FBO flight schools.

When I got my ratings a couple years ago, I did it one hour at a time at a local FBO. Pay as you go. Of course that option is way cheaper but generally takes longer. At that time, I thought about places like DCA but chose the longer and less expensive option.

I think there can be a legitimate reason for paying more at a DCA type program. The old adage that time = money. If you can pay more but enter the job market at a more advantageous time, it might be worth it.

There are no jobs to slide into at this time. Anyone doing their homework now would look into the local FBO option with the goal of being ready when hiring resumes.

If we are in the middle of a hiring frenzy where companies are lowering mins and hiring immediately, it might be worth it shell out some extra bucks for the timing.