141 vs. 61
 

This has probably been addressed on the board before but I'm just looking for clarification. What is the real difference between Part 141 and Part 61 schools? Do employers view 141 more favorably? Being that I'm just beginning my flight training, I signed up for 141. Under this, my CFI has scheduled for us to meet for a few hours of ground training a couple of times before we actually fly. For these meetings, I'll be charged for the instructor's time. Is this normal? Am I on the right track by pursuing the 141 option? Also, does this one-on-one ground training with a CFI in combination with my actual flight lessons mean that a formal ground school is not necessary? Forgive me if these are stupid questions, but does anyone out there have any insight on this? Sure appreciate the feedback. Thanks!

The 141 program will cover all of the ground school that you should need (however bear in mind that it will most likely be one on one time, and charged as such, as opposed to a mass ground school).

The difference simply has to do with the structure of the program and some of the various requirements that the FAA requires you to meet to get each certification.

Part 141 programs are more "regulated" in nature, and follow set syllabi. For whatever reason, the FAA feels that as a result 141 schools have more organized training regimine, which can lower the flight time requirements to take your checkride (it varies depending on which rating you are going for).

As far as employer preference, I would say that unless you are getting a degree from a part 141 school (ERAU, UND, Purdue, etc), companies don't care where you get your certificate as long as you pass the checkrides.

I agree with FlyerJosh.

Part 141 schools are typically structured around a college setting. Typically, you will do the ground schooling at the school, and the flight training (and ground school to 'touch up' on key items) at the flight school with your instructor. (But in your case, you are doing all of the ground school with your instructor - THIS IS NOT A BAD THING!!!) With a 141 program, you will be sent on Stage/Progress ("Prog") checks along the way on the particular rating or certificate you are working towards. Durring this, you will most likely have an oral exam with the Assistant Chief/Chief Flight Instructor followed by a flight or "practical" examination.

One difference that DOES stick out between 141 and 61 sylibi, is the flight time requirements. I just thought I would point that one out.

Now doing your flight training 61, you will notice that the regulations are similar to 141, requirement-wise, BUT if you look further down the road to when you will be working on your Commercial Certificate, that is where 141 and 61 make the big difference. Cross Country requirements, time requirements change somewhat.

I won't give you all the details. This is actually something that I, as a CFI, would have you research. Do your homework. Not only will it benifit you knowing your regs, but it will help you find where 'stuff' is. I wish you all the best of luck. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to Private Message me.

ONE MORE THING:
Remember one important thing that my dad has always taught me. (regarding your concern about the 'excessive' ground school) "Learn on the ground, Practice in the air." You can never have too much ground schooling. It will only make the flying that much easier if you fully understand basic concepts. PLUS, by 'learning on the ground' you won't have to 'practice in the air' as much as if you were learning everything in the air. In the end, saving you a boat-load of money. Again, PM me if you have any further questions.

Me too... of course this CFI is way out of teaching currency, and doesn't have a set of regs sitting nearby ("so ummm, why don't you show me where you can find that..." or "We'll look it up together!") :D, but if you happen to have one, check out the aeronautical experience requirements for each rating in both FAR part 61 and FAR part 141... IIRC, the commercial license is close to 25 or 50 hrs difference.

~J

190 hrs TT for part 141 vs. 250 TT for part 61 is lots of money...Granted it doesn't look like that much flight time...but 60 hours is a lot of money...That's why I said what I said.

...and in my defense...it was 1:30am:p Sorry I wasn't more specific.

D

No trouble! Just ribbing you from one (Very out of date) CFI to another! :)

HA! No biggy boss. So what are you flying right now? U flying the Citation, or the RJ?

D

Outta the airline world... I occasionally pickup a contract CRJ job (mainly ferry flights and MX), but the Citation job pays the bills. :)

Trying to figure out a cheap way to get the old CFI dusted off again... but it's been over 5 years since I was anything close to proficient in a light GA aircraft (at least lighter than the slowtation...)

Call ALLATPS - they may be able to give you a good deal...I've also heard Sheble's in Arizona is pretty good...

-LA

I see, I see. Well, good luck with the CE job. If you are ever on the East Coast, I can get you set up if you need help (which I doubt you do...you've been in the biz a few more years than I have.) I know a couple of great flight schools, most of which I have 'hook-ups' in. Let me know good sir.

D