Joebob21

Warning: The following question could come off as arrogant, ignorant, or entitled. Trust me when I say I do not intend it that way.

I was speaking with a captain of a Legacy carrier and he told me that some non-regional carriers are paying for ATP ratings for applicants. Now I understand that this sounds absurd, that being said, have any of you heard of such a thing? Would any of the LCC’s do this? Before hearing this I was planning to either A) go to a regional for a short time to have it paid for and gain some rights seat time in a jet. B) pay for it myself and apply at an LCC. For those of you who paid for it yourself, where would you recommend going?

Background: Currently over 2500TT with nearly 1000TPIC SE part 135 scheduled operation.

TOGALOCK

The only non-regional airline that I know of that has paid for an initial ATP rating is Frontier, and that is only for a very select and very lucky few guinea pigs from a particular university flight program. Having an ATP is still part of the minimum requirements for normal hires.

The hiring competition at the low cost carriers has increased tenfold since everyone has gotten new contracts. The odds of getting on with any of them without any turbine time is 0. However, 121 experience isn’t always necessary depending on the rest of your qualifications. I can say that Frontier, in particular, is very welcoming of those with turbine 135 and corporate 91 backgrounds. With your time turbine time I’d say it is worth a shot applying anyway, but I honestly wouldn’t get your hopes up with only SE TPIC. If you don’t get a bite than go with plan “B” of going to a regional for a bit. You may get lucky and not be there too long after getting some crew time in jet equipment.

Joebob21

Thank you, I certainly don’t think that I am part of the select, or special group of people. Looks like old fashioned hard work will prevail again. I appreciate the prompt, honest response. I will however apply, and hope for the best.