Originally Posted by ChillBillPilot

Boomer, I am a flight instructor for ATP at both of their atlanta locations. I take my job very seriously and I believe that I perform to the best of my ability. I have a 100% pass rate, first attempt and I resent the fact that you think just because of where I instruct that I am not a "legit" CFI. Why is it that you feel the need to bash CFIs at ATP because you do not like the company I work for. Maybe it was unintentional but be careful how you word things. Elijahmike I wish you the best of luck in your decision as to which route to take to learn to fly. If you have any questions about ATP do not hesitate to schedule a tour at one of the facilities in ATL, or PM and I will be happy to answer any questions you have.

Originally Posted by elijahmike1

I am a 31yr old firefighter for a major dept in metro Atlanta. I have a wife and 2 kids and "survive" on 50,000 a year. I have always wanted to fly. I was close to joining ATP's self paced program (0-hero). Im a vet so after VA would have taken on about 40K grand debt. I began to question my career change and if it was possible. I read an article that said ATP is now only hiring 30% of their grads for CFI positions after completion of training. I called and questioned and was told "your the type of person we are looking for, older, professional, and would not have a problem getting hired as a ATP CFI...for sure" Yah...OK. Then I became concerned w/ the pool of potential pilots growing everyday and nobody hiring. So I questioned...was told "the best time to train is during a downturn and that I would have no problem in 1 1/2 years getting a job that the "regionals will be hiring like crazy". When I asked about the ridiculous pay, that I had no idea was the case BTW, I was told that it's only like that the first year and it's realistic to make 35K-40K in yr 2 and then upgrade to make "good" money. Then I stumble on this forum! Anyone out there who can offer good advice that is not just disgruntled would be appreciated. Be safe!

Originally Posted by TBMDriver

I was in a similar boat to you back in 2002. I was retiring as a "Jake" from the Boston Fire Department. I thought, now is the time to chase the flying dream. I went to work for a regional airline, unfortunately,the airline dream isn't what is was when my Dad worked for DAL, and I left after only eight months. The QOL is non existant. Pay and benifits are even worse. You will find, as an an adult, that has had a good career, that this will result in your not tolerating the treatment impossed upon regional airline pilots. Also, if it had not been for my retirement I could not have supported my wife and kids. My advice, to a brother FF, is to stay on the job and flight instruct on the side. It will be like dipping your toes in the water and not diving in over you head. You will still get to fly and yet be home with the family. I understand the emotional aspect of wanting to be a pilot, but try to remain realistic. Finally, you are doing the right thing by researching the subject on APC.

Best of luck with what ever you do.

Originally Posted by ChillBillPilot

I resent the fact that you think just because of where I instruct that I am not a "legit" CFI. Why is it that you feel the need to bash CFIs at ATP because you do not like the company I work for. Maybe it was unintentional but be careful how you word things.