Sorry for the long post.
I am 30 years young and have been flying since '96.
I started out as a CFI/CFII in late 96 and by late 2000 (after a brief gig flying an Aztec part 135 cargo) I owned 2 reasonably successfull flight schools of my own and employed over 15 CFI's and some support personel and was in the advanced planning stages of starting up a 135 operation. We also did some brokering of airplanes.
Then 9-11 happened. It shut me down for nearly 12 weeks as both my flight schools were located very close to a nuclear (sp?) power-plant. Once we got the go-ahead to resume operations, I had gone through the company's money as well as my own personal savings/retirement funds trying to keep employees employed while shut down and leases/insurance/rent/utilities etc paid up. Not a good business decision, but I cared for and about my guy's and girls and did not want them to go without a paycheck.
I struggled till sometime in late 2002 before I was forced to pull the plug on all operations and close down both schools. The after effects of 9-11 and the fer of flying as well as the economic recession just did not do well for us.
I haven't flown since as nobody was hiring at that time. Bills were piling up etc and I was forced to get any job and settled for a non-flying job as flying jobs were unavailable.
Money problems prevented me from renting an airplane somewhere to keep current.
I'm financially much better off now and am married as well (former student of mine
Both of us are ready for me to start flying again. Her income can support us while I'm making squat.
I recently completed my ATPL written and Flight Engineer written exams and scored well on both.
I also completed a BFR a few weeks ago.
In addition I have kept my CFI/II valid over the years.
I purchased a Sporty's Instrument DVD course, Jepessen ME course, 06 FAR/AIM, Instrument Flying Handbook, several Interview and resume guides, Turbine Flight Manual, Jepessen approach plates as well as a Jepessen DVD regarding approach procedures and a PC based flight sim (On Top by ASA) trying to study and get current.
I have 2600 TT, 313 Multi, 1700 dual given, etc. Also have a CPL with ASEL, AMEL and IR ratings. A CFI and CFII as well as a Advanced and Instrument ground instructors license. In addition the above mentioned ATP and FEX written exams and a current First Class Med.
I haven't logged much time at all the last few years. Let alone a paid flying gig. I am about to enroll into All ATP's ATP course to obtain my ATPL certificate. It won't allow me to log much time, but will show that I'm motivated, am able to pass the FAA ATPL practical.
I have moved and now live in western North Carolina, about 3 hrs from Charlotte, NC and also 3 hours from Atlanta, GA.
Willing to move again if necessary.
I want to get back into the game but am out of touch with my network and need help or suggestions.