Sputnik

They have an ATP only course (4 sims), I was inaugural student. I was completely impressed, very good instruction. It is probably the most expensive way to get an ATP at ~$4.5k, as I recall the type was $7k. More bang for your buck to get the type. I wasn't that into SWA, and as I was doing this at night while working I didn't have the time to do the full type.

I had been flying pistons vfr, for confidence I just wanted to "fly" something big again, and also shoot some approaches. Cheaper ways out there for an ATP, but definitely a good place if you have the cash. If you want the type, I know lots of folks that did it with FTI and they all gave a big thumbs up to the program.

NEDude

Wow, you have been there almost as long as me. I was told at the Air Inc job fair in August 2005 that I was in the short stack at CAL and I would be getting a call within a few weeks. Ten years and eight internal recommendations later I am still waiting on that call...

Flydaplane

Nothing we can do but keep at it. Those that give up get no reward. It's like hiking an unfamiliar trail, just as you think your nearing the top, you crest a hill only to find another mountain you've got to cross. Enjoy the journey...

at6d

I'm really not sure if it would be worth $7300 plus lodging for an ATP refresher. That being said, a recent type/training event is always a good thing. If you aren't trying to get on with SWA, I would probably seek a lesser expensive venue...as a matter of fact, if you don't much civilian multi time, I'd probably look into your local flight school and do an IFR flight review/refresher.

Just my 2 cents.

flyinhawyan

Thanks. I'm going to buy some block of time on my local school's piper aztec.

NEDude

I gave up several years ago. I live permanently outside the United States now and quite happy, not going to work for a U.S. airline and I am okay with that.

captjns

Overall, I've been an expat for some 23 years, with the exception of a temporary stint back in the U.S. For a couple of years. True, T&Cs have declined over the years, but still exceed those of what's available in the U.S. Essentially it's been an all expense paid vacation for us. An important advantage is guaranteed travel to and from my home airport in Business... no jump seating. well probably one negative. No breadsticks or cognac on the domestic legs with the carrier they book The domestic legs. Good friendly cabin crew, but man... that third wire always awakens me on arrival.

Although, for the younger people starting out, I'd recommend biting the bullet, staying home, joining a U.S. Major, bide one's time climbing the seniority list.

at6d

Nothing wrong with that!

BStill

Old thread, but relevant to me now. Former military (tacair) pilot, with a brief 1-2 year attempt to transition to airlines in 2000-2001 before furloughed, and been flying a desk ever since. Total flight time 2000 hours, with ATP and FE, and a corporate jet type rating. (BE-400)

I've just started doing the local FBO/CFI thing described above for an (extended) flight refresh and then an IPC. (Also networking to find a local BE-400 operator who might appreciate right-seat services.) This GA path might be much (?) cheaper in the long run, but it's gonna take a few months to get there. Wondering if self-funding one of the ATP-CTP courses or even one of these 737 Type Rating courses might be a more efficient way to get current and (especially) look better on airline applications sooner. (None of my flight time was Part 121, as I was on the panel that whole time...) As a vet, also curious if GI Bill could fund it?

I'm new to the GA world and enjoying it, but wondering if it's really the most efficient way, for me, now, to gain currency that's relevant to an airline application (and to prep for an interview that includes a sim check..)

Any advice much appreciated.

ExperimentalAB

If you’ve got the cash to spend…I think a recent Type would go a very long way in proving you’ve still “got it.” As always my advice is worth what you’ve paid for it. Good luck!