Originally Posted by
brian434
So I've read in a few places that another pilot shortage is just around the corner. I remember just a couple years ago that all of my friends were walking into regional jobs and CFIs were getting paid well in my area. That has since changed and we're all hurting. A lot of people, like myself, are thinking about stepping away from aviation.
If this shortage is true it should make it pretty easy to stick with flying and actually be able to pay the bills. If you had 900 hours SEL in your log book what would you do to start getting some of that MEL that you need? Is an MEI worth it? What about type ratings? Should I be investing in this idea of a pilot shortage and my own capabilities in hopes of topping other applicants?
Getting the MEL time has to be the hardest part. What does everyone else do?
Thanks for the tips guys and gals.
In this industry, you really have to look at your self and understand that you have to dig deep and keep working towards the top. I'm not bragging but at 35, I'm captain Rated in the RJ, MD-11 and 747-400 and I now fly all over the world. I never once thought that I would just give up and move on! In fact, I loved seeing people do that! Now, I understand that situations are always different. I didn't have kids and extra mouths to feed when I was scraping by. I do have some close friends that did have extra mouths and they now fly 777's, G5's and 747's. I really respect those guys that made it. If not, I really suggest sticking to your guns and be creative. Think outside the box and find ways to build some quality time. For instance, make sure you teach instead of tow banners. I would hire a guy with 500 hours dual over a guy towing banners for 1500 hours any day. The reason why, I know he can pass that hard check ride but most importantly, he or she can communicate. If you can convey the material by teaching, you will show some one some day at an airline interview that your pretty damn smart! Get your MEI. I put off the instructor thing for a few years and I regret that. Teaching is by far an excellent way of learning. In fact, you will always be an instructor even if you have 30 years in this industry. Those are the great instructors. One thing I learned as an enlisted Marine was to not accept defeat. Ride this storm. If you leave and decide to come back, now your competing with people that are current. Staying current is very important. Do what it takes. I did and I will tell you, I absolutely love my career! If you have any further questions I can answer feel free to E-mail me [deleted]