My situation may be slightly unique or it may not, I am not sure. I am a 29 year old male living in the southeast. I began flight training with ATP in November 2022 with a loan financing the whole thing, busted my Private the first time, and then subsequently passed it, then passed Instrument in October 2023, then Commecial Single in January of 2024. It felt like a “pilot mill” and certainly wasn’t quality instruction but I didn’t have anything to compare it to. While prepping for their CFI academy, i did a deep dive on medicals and realized that I messed up when applying for mine. I had struggles with alcohol years before aviation and was arrested for DUI. The case was dropped and expunged (Nolle Prosequi). The mistake I made came from the have you ever been arrested OR convicted vs. the arrested AND convicted part. I immediately withdrew from ATP and set about an 2 year process of telling the FAA everything after wasting my time with an aviation lawyer who essentially just googled things for 500$ an hour. I worked with my AME, did the psych testings, paid around 7k and changed my life for the better. Its two years later and my main question is this: what’s my best play moving forward? It’s been two years since I’ve been in an aircraft and not only will my ”stick and rudder skills” be very rusty, but unfortunately Ive let a lot of my already hindered ATP ground knowledge slip. Should I contact a mom and pop for CFI training? Should I find a 4year like Liberty and transfer my certs in? Is there a lesser known option perfect for my situation? I just want to fly but not sure what’s the most cost effective and efficient path that'll lead me to a good job. Thanks

 

Kind of a cruddy situation… especially with the current regional hiring environment. The question I have for you is, is if this is really want to do, if you don’t try…. will you wonder for the rest of you life what if? I think you have a legitimate shot at making it there, although it may take a bit of time. While there may be skeletons, there is also the proof there that you have put in the time and money because you truly care about this, and that does carry some weight.

Some of those programs you mentioned are great, and if you decide to go somewhere that will give you a 4 year degree, that will show even more that you are committed to doing this job. I have a degree from Liberty and was hired right at 1000 hours even in a competitive hiring situation. I would never discourage someone from following their dreams, it just may take quite a bit extra in your situation, but if you make it, you won’t regret it.

 

Proceed full speed ahead with your CFI/II/MEI. The benefits outweigh the liability. Now look for the future when you meet the minimums for a 135/121 operation. You may have to address this faux pas in your life. Put this thought in your tool kit. Consult with a professional aviation recruiter. They will, if they are worth their $$$$ will guide you to continue on your path.



Good luck and safe flying… Most important… Don’t quit.

 

So what is your TT now?
And what is the status of your medical?
I take it the initial PP was the only rating you failed?