Anyone here go through one of the ATP programs? I understand the general opinion of these zero to hero schools is poor, but I would imagine like anything you can get out of it what you put in. A lot of it has to do with the person. Their package deals do seem to be very well priced. I have a PPL and the quote through MEII is right at $50,000. That's better than any FBO has ever quoted me. Plus a guaranteed CFI position after graduation. They say they can get rates at 4% APR for 25 years, which comes out to just under $270/mo... that's a manageable number but also comes out to $30,000 in accrued interest over 25 years. Scary.

So to the graduates; Now that you've graduated and moved on with a job what is your opinion on the decision to go with ATP? How good was the advertised airline placement program? What are the things you overlooked, liked, disliked, etc? What did you actually end up spending, and how has life been financially with those first few years of FO pay?

I understand I'm not going to be rich, trust me I'm already an A&P mechanic for a regional. I also don't want to be completely stuck living paycheck to paycheck. On another forum a 2 year regional FO posted his 2 week paycheck, and it was over $1300... so that's over $600/mo more than I am netting now (sigh...), but I'm actually doing okay on that paycheck.

I'm almost 25 and paying for ratings one at a time out of pocket is just taking way too long. I've been in contact with an AA pilot friend and he suggested getting moving ASAP because the pilot shortage is looking like it will happen sooner than later. So it comes down to time vs money. TSA has line mechanic positions available at ORD, and a new facility opened at DPA. It might be possible to keep working full time and train with their self paced program.

Comments, suggestions?