Tacos

It’s been 15 years since I started my private with Riddle. So things have probably changed. Including the RATP which I don’t know much about because it doesn’t apply to me. But back then I only lasted a Private at Riddle and went to a part 61 school for everything else. I was frustrated by the slow pace and canned lessons. Instead I did all of my 250 hrs at the time doing cross countries into a bunch of neat and challenging airports through the West. I was a Prescott student as well. I learned far more doing those flights than I would have at Riddle. Not a bad program but didn’t work for me.

Also it hasn’t held me back at all. Currently a 76 Capt and fairly recently had an interview with Delta in which they asked me why and some other questions about my part 61 training. To which I answered honestly and told them what I just said to you. They didn’t even blink at it. Seemed very happy with the interview and offered me the job. So I say do what works for you. But again, I don’t know much about the RATP and requirement changes with the big schools now.

zonianflyer

I didn’t go to Riddle so I can’t comment on their program. I did my training at Sierra Charlie in Scottsdale under part 61 and plan on getting my aeronautical degree from Liberty once I am at a regional. Point is, you don’t need the degree.... right now. Not saying you shouldn’t get it, but there are other options.

Have you looked into Yavapai Community College and their partnership with North Aire? Again, I don’t have any personal experience with their program, but it is in Prescott AZ also and likely a lot cheaper. You can still get financing with them too *i think*

captande

With a lot of these 141 programs the biggest money hog is the flight costs themselves. Perhaps one way to do it is go distance learning (online courses etc) and get your ratings part 61. Even if you’re lucky you can live at home. I know that’s not the most glamorous approach but imagine the money you’ll save not having to shell out rent and whatever. Then you can have the degree checked off for applications, then as someone said before if you’re somewhere with a lot of students that extra 500 hours is only a few months difference.

For me personally the biggest factor to deciding on my next step after instructing was the student loan payments. Keep those as low as you can and you’ll be a step ahead financially.

If you’re set on the 141 path I know UVU is out your way. I’ve been to their campus and it’s a nice small program, great equipment, and great faculty and student group.