sadietp

What is the best program to join to land a job at a regional? I heard about cadet programs but I am not too familiar with those.

I almost am finished with my PPL and would like a program to hopefully guarantee a spot on a Regional in 2 years.

Otterbox

Piedmont Airlines Cadet Program

Dubz

What's the advantage of signing onto a cadet program? Once you have ATP minimums you should be able to get hired at any of the desirables anyway, correct?

Whiskey4

HR and travel benefits through the airline since many programs allow you to be employed by the airline. Oh...and a bunch of free stuff.

Whiskey4

To the OP...

There are many Cadet/Bridge program options. Weigh those airlines and programs that make the most sense from a QOL perspective. Don't just accept the first one that pops up on a forum.

Otterbox

Financial reimbursement, set pathway to where you want to end up instead of meandering around from Job to job.

The OP said they were ignorant to the cadet programs, so I posted the one that I'm vaguely familiar with. Otherwise google is a wonderful thing and they could do plenty of their own research.

Dubz

Forgive my ignorance on the topic... I don't have a dog in the fight which is why I don't know anything about the programs. How early is a person able to sign up for one of these programs? If an individual signs up for a cadet program do they get paid the same in bonuses and rate as a street hire or is the bonus different because of the previously paid benefits?

What HR benefits is a cadet entitled to? Full health and dental? They can't accumulate seniority until they are on property, correct?

prex8390

Cadet programs are worthless now a days. Keep your nose clean and study hard and youll have a job when youre ready. Guys applying are getting calls within 48 hours.

Whiskey4

Some programs allow students to become designated "Cadets" as early as completion of PPL certificate training and completing an HR interview.

The only time I've heard of a change to Cadet program bonuses is when carriers allow cadets to draw forward a portion of the signing bonus (paid while they are still a CFI).

Cadet program CFIs can be eligible for employment with the airline. This would confer employee benefits (travel, medical/dental/vision, vacation accrual, discounts of products and services, etc.) without providing a pilot seniority benefits.

Not all cadet/bridge programs have the same benefits. I would look into airlines that interest you and speak with recruitment staff about the various perks available though a cadet type track, and what schools they partner with). In addition to those listed, another perk may include "super-seniority" in class for base/fleet selection.

Whiskey4

Not necessarily. If you want to travel a lot those benefits alone can save you a small fortune.