Type Ratings I have obtained are:
B-727, B-737, B-757, B-767, DC-9, DA-50(900), G-IV, BE-1900

 

North America, South America, Caribbean, Europe, Russia, China, (Asia), Mid East, Far East, around the world 4 times, South Pacific.

 

Hold A&P Mechanic Certificates with IA endorsement, AGI, IGI, CFII, FEJ, Aircraft Dispatcher and former Dispatcher Examiner, former Pilot Examiner, Check Airman, Former CAT II & III Examiner and also Part 135 Examiner.

 

Graduated Aviation HS, LIC Queens NY with an A&P Cert.
Graduated with a BBA college degree.
Many post college classes in related fields.

 

"If we are not having fun, why are we doing this?"

 

While flying IS an enjoyable occupation, I would have to say I think the best days are over. The economy, the pay scales, the precarious companies that rotate through bankruptcy, the post 9-11 terrorist threats, the hassles with TSA at airports all contribute to making this a questionable career choice that is fraught with instability for settling down and really earning a good living. Aside from a few companies, the major airlines used to be the top of the industry and may very well still be, but realistically the top has been lowered with loss of benefits (pensions and medical) at many carriers or a reduction in what is offered and lower pay scales. Having taught and flown in the corporate field the good jobs are also few and far between. Some may think I am negative however, approaching the end of a wonderful career, I don't like what I see for those that follow and I speak from reality. Few will get to join a company and retire there the way things are headed. Maint. personnel are not following from school as was years ago. The pay scales for mechanics do not justify the training and the FAA knows this. A severe shortage is looming on the horizon.

 

Hi, I'm 16, own a partial share in a '68 C150. Soloed on my 16th birthday at 9 hours. Totaled at 15 hrs now. Want to go straight to Aerosim or Transpac after high school

 

Retired AF, doing the AirTran/SWA shuffle.

 

Aspiring commercial pilot maybe, we will see where my current flying takes me

 

Hi, I'm an aviation flight student looking for good information on aviation.