Flight school or military?

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08-22-2018, 03:02 PM

KTM1524

On Reserve

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Joined APC: Jun 2018

Posts: 12

Flight school or military?

Hello everyone,

I am a 24 year old recent college athlete graduate who isn’t using his degree. I am trying to get some advice on what would be the best possible route to get me there as quickly as possible to start gaining seniority. I have several friends who have joined flight schools and some who have joined military. As of right now I am considering joining the air national guard in Birmingham, AL as an officer (first getting my private pilots license for experience) and am also considering joining a flight school in Atlanta. The main reason I haven’t already joined the flight school is because the loans I would have to take out and the debt I would be in after rather then joining a military branch and get paid while learning how to fly. I’m open to any and all advice and suggestions.

Thanks

08-22-2018, 03:30 PM

rickair7777

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Joined APC: Jan 2006

Position: Engines Turn Or People Swim

Posts: 39,275

Civilian path could be faster... in theory. But for that to work you have to be the ideal package in all respects, and at least a little luck.

Military experience will provide more predictable and reliable progression to the best airline jobs.

But don't do military unless you really want to serve...

08-25-2018, 01:22 PM

sourdough44

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Joined APC: Sep 2013

Position: Left

Posts: 636

I’d have to vote for Guard flying position, if you can work it out. It would be very helpful to have a private pilot’s license soon too.

After that, sprinkle in some more training, hours, and possibly some CFI time. There are no absolutes along the way, no need to quibble over a year here or there.

08-25-2018, 01:39 PM

aiir

Line Holder

Joined APC: Jan 2011

Posts: 88

If I was in your shoes I would start working on my private certificate asap, pay as you go, the goal is to solo, I’ve read that this is the bare minimum, but they do like for you to have your private. I would also study my ass off to do well on the AFOQT, and the TBAS, to get that PCSM?? Score up, without needing crazy amount of hours, I forget the exact acronym. Get your stuff squared away and start meeting the untit, it would be easier if you were open to more units, since I’ve read it’s very competitive but you’re at the perfect age. Bogidope has a lot of good info, as does flyingsquadron.com idk, I think that’s what its called. Anyways. Good luck!

08-25-2018, 02:10 PM

hydrostream

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Joined APC: Oct 2017

Posts: 459

I was a military helicopter pilot and am now going through airplane training as a civilian. The military's training is incredible and the experience you will gain through your career will be something few get to take advantage of. But there is no flexibility and you will sacrifice a lot in order to follow that path. That said, I couldn't recommend it enough. Good luck!