Stretching out your training
 

While browsing several posts through the fourms I have seen several people that like/dislike the programs that can get you through in a couple of months, and others like to go there own way. After college (Have 2 years left) I have a contracted commitment to the military for 4 years, my question is do you think 6 years is too long of a time stretch out getting all of my commercial, instructor and multi-engine time?

Thanks,
Travis

I guess my main concern is that when I finally do apply for an airline they will look and see that it has taken me 6 years to work up to my level and get a negative idea as to why it took me so long.

They don't care about how long it took so much as that you meet the requirements of hiring at the time. If they do question it (which I doubt they will) tell them you were in the military, which you were.

You're not going to be able to get a job flying during your military stint anyway, the hours will do more for you when they've been aquired recently.

So you mean it will not matter if I try to do all of the training in my free time over the next several years?

But I should wait and do them all at once?

I am a little confused. I realize that it may be more "fresh" if I do it more recently but as the first quote stated, just as long as you meet the reuirements....

Travis,

Work towards your ratings in your spare time. Fly as much as your schedule and pocketbook will allow. If you only get so much as your private pilot and instrument rating done, fine- enjoy flying for flying while building valuable time and experience. If you can knock out other ratings, great!

You actually have an advantage- you are gaining valuable life-experience and have a steady income (as well as most of your living costs covered). It might take you a bit more time in the long run to make your first paycheck as a pilot, but hey- the industry sucks right now anyway! I don't know how hiring differs in the UK from the US, but it really doesn't matter how long it took you to get your experience, as long as you have the required minimums for hiring and are relatively current/proficient when you apply.

Fly on the side- and do it for fun! The added benefit is that many military bases (at least US ones) have flying clubs that service members can join for relatively reasonable rates (and get decent rates too). I would look into some of those opportunites for your training. Regardless of what you choose to do, start networking NOW! The contacts that you make now could very easily lead to jobs later in life!

~Josh

flying on active duty
 

Travis,

Enjoy your military career and don't compromise it for an FAA rating (the FAA, the ratings, and those hours will be there when you have served...). It took me 4 years to get a PPL. Oh well, like Josh said I gained life experience that will serve me better in the long run...Flight training schools / academies will be around forever...Enjoy seeing the world at 100 knots while you can...

-LA