flyerr

Short version: I'm in my mid-30's, have a full-time job paying the bills for me and the wife, and can't quit to fly full-time. I'm currently private SEL/MEL, a couple weeks from my Instrument checkride, with about 150TT (35ME).

I want to switch careers to be a professional pilot (preferably some sort of government pilot job) and have no interest in Part 121, though some friends who fly 135 have convinced me that it would be a lot of fun.

How big of a deal is it to get a ME ATP, for a non-121 career? I'm considering taking the written next month to get grandfathered, though I have no idea how the hell I'm supposed to get another 1300+ hours in the next 24 months, given that I've still gotta do the 8-5. Is there any chance of taking another ATP written in two years, using the expired test sheet as my ticket in? I can't think of any other way to do it, unless somehow I win that AOPA Debonair plus enough scratch-off lottery tickets to keep it full of gas!

Thanks for reading - I really look forward to hearing your perspectives.

aviatorhi

ATPs are pretty much required these days, and if not required they are highly sought after...

You have to build your time the old fashioned way, either flying Skydiving/Banner Towing/Instructing or possible Bush flying (500 TT minimum). Getting your ATP will be significantly more difficult in the coming future than it was.

Good luck.

Flightcap

It will not be possible to take another ATP written after two years without doing the preparatory course. The only way I can see that you could possibly get an ATP within the next two years is to get your Commercial rating as fast as possible (i.e., the next 6 - 10 months). Then be willing to give about two years of your life to a scheduled 135 op like SeaPort or similar who may be willing to pick you up with good references and a quality record, and fly as much as you can. It will be tough to get to 1500 TT 500 XC from your current position. Good luck sir.

rickair7777

Another option would be to plan on working for a regional once you reach ATP mins. By that time, regionals will HAVE to be providing the ATP training in-house at no cost to new hires. Then stay for 18 months or so to get 1000 TPIC then head back to the 91/135 world.

flyerr

Well, I just downloaded the Sheppard prep, and made the appointment for my test next month. We'll see how it goes! Now, to find a way to rack up a thousand more hours in a very short time...

tom11011

I think the airlines will end up providing it.
How Regional Airlines might deal with new ATP written requirements | Airline Pilot Info