badtransam97

I'm in a unique position, I. That I'm sitting at about 2250TT and all but about 375 is turbine helo, and about 30hrs multi but currently renting a twin. I want to end up at a NetJets or Delta Private Jets type outfit because of the home basing and the set schedule.
My question is, what is the best way to get into these places? I can get on at a regional with my current times, but really not looking fwd to the commute and I'm not moving. I have a few little side jobs flying single engine fixed wing, but it's only about 10-20hrs a month. There really isn't a lot of other options near my home. Should I just bite the bullet and go to a regional for a year or so and get the multi time and then apply? Thanks.

Luv2Rotate

Network, network, network

Desert Sky

If you can't get a local corporate turbine job, I would suggest not going to the regional airlines. You will look much for attractive to part 135/91k operators with turbine PIC. I would suggest getting on with a cargo company like Ameriflight, Empire, MAC and so forth. The small cargo operators usually have a more stable, consistent and defined time frame for a pilot to get TPIC; even in today's rapid upgrade regional environment. You may get left seat in a turbine aircraft immediately upon hire, like a Beech99.

Get at least 500TPIC (preferably 1000hrs) and apply to every large home based 135/91k operator (TMC, DPJ, Wheels Up, NetJets, Fltop/Flex, and all local company's). Another benefit is that you will be payed better over the course of your relatively short stay at the cargo op.

badtransam97

Thanks for the good info. There really isn't a lot to choose from around here as far as "local" turbine PIC gigs. MAC has a base in MEM thats a 2hr drive for me, guess I could go that route for a while..If nothing local would the FO time at a regional be worth doing to get looked at? Also thought about Central Air Southwest, I know its not turbine, but its multi and they are looking for a MEM pilot I think

Desert Sky

The issue is that most of the operators you want to fly for comply with ARG/US and Wyvern criteria. You will need TPIC to be competitive and they don't want to hire a candidate that will sit right seat for extended periods of time. If you go to a regional, you will need 1000 hours of 121 time in order to meet minimum upgrade requirements. Realistically that is one year in the right seat, at least. If you add on two months of initial training, IOE, reserve time, you may be looking at 12-15 months until upgrade.

Versus, going to MAC and be done with initial training within four weeks. Earning TPIC immediately our of training or very short three month wait for ATR CA. Not to mention much better pay. MAC ATR CA=$44100, C208 CA=$34390. Or regional FO making $22k-26k. After one year you could potentially leave MAC to your home based 135/91k job or you could be slugging it out at a regional hoping for the upgrade.

From where I stand the choice would be clear.

badtransam97

I see what you mean..Im guessing steering cleat of the Caravan time would be wise, and trying to get into the multi instead? Also, any of these places allow home basing or commuting that you know of? Im equal driving time (2hr) from MEM and BNA, so looking at something in the area would be my only option I think, unless commuting is allowed. Would I gain enough hours at MAC in a years time to qualify for one of these fractional jobs? I heard MAC doesn't fly a lot comparatively speaking. Thanks again

Desert Sky

I would suggest heading over to the Cargo section and asking them. You will get your answers in short order. Good Luck and don't give up!

frmrdashtrash

Not sure what our minimums are other than ATP, but I would go ahead and apply to NJA if that's where you want to be. Lack of turbine PIC will not be a problem and the company is rotorhead friendly.