ATP practical
#431
Is there a site out there which reviews ATP practicals? I've heard a couple of horror stories from some of my bros who went to an unnamed company well known for ATPs and said the DEs they used specifically mentioned how mil guys were taking THEIR jobs.
I'm not looking for a free pass, but I also don't want to check with a guy who has a bone to pick with military pilots "stealing" their jobs. I know that my civilian knowledge isn't what it could be, and that I'll be taking a check ride in a plane with 2-3 hours of experience, last thing I need is a check pilot who doesn't like me for my current job.
Thanks.
I'm not looking for a free pass, but I also don't want to check with a guy who has a bone to pick with military pilots "stealing" their jobs. I know that my civilian knowledge isn't what it could be, and that I'll be taking a check ride in a plane with 2-3 hours of experience, last thing I need is a check pilot who doesn't like me for my current job.
Thanks.
You should definitely check out Sheppard Air! It's what I used to pass my commercial. I've heard a ton of guys use it for their ATPs as well. I've also heard that there are some great check guys near UPT bases FYSA.
#432
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#434
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Just wanted to contribute since I read the forums often and it has given me some insight of what to expect as I make the jump from the military. I recently completed my ATP Practical training and Checkride at VSL (https://vsl.aero) in Russellville, AR. Training was very straight forward and their website provides all the study info you’ll need to be successful (one of the more detailed websites pertaining to ATP Practical and Multi engine transition training). Ground training in the morning then flights right after. Flights were in their Travel Air with G5/Garmin 530 avionics. I was paired up with another Military ATP pilot and we took turns flying with the instructor. After each flight we would switch to the back seat which reinforced what we just learned. Lunch is provided daily from different local restaurants. Good instruction and excellent experience overall.
#435
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Joined: Aug 2022
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From: Lots
Just wanted to contribute since I read the forums often and it has given me some insight of what to expect as I make the jump from the military. I recently completed my ATP Practical training and Checkride at VSL (https://vsl.aero) in Russellville, AR. Training was very straight forward and their website provides all the study info you’ll need to be successful (one of the more detailed websites pertaining to ATP Practical and Multi engine transition training). Ground training in the morning then flights right after. Flights were in their Travel Air with G5/Garmin 530 avionics. I was paired up with another Military ATP pilot and we took turns flying with the instructor. After each flight we would switch to the back seat which reinforced what we just learned. Lunch is provided daily from different local restaurants. Good instruction and excellent experience overall.
#437
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It’s a 5 day course but maybe shorter based on your flight proficiency and ATP studies (ACS knowledge, BE95 limitations and systems). Took me 4 flights in 3 days to include the practical. It was just under $4,300 including the DPE.
#438
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That's a really good deal. Did they have bunks or did you need a local hotel?
#439
New Hire
Joined: Jul 2023
Posts: 1
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Just wanted to contribute since I read the forums often and it has given me some insight of what to expect as I make the jump from the military. I recently completed my ATP Practical training and Checkride at VSL (https://vsl.aero) in Russellville, AR. Training was very straight forward and their website provides all the study info you’ll need to be successful (one of the more detailed websites pertaining to ATP Practical and Multi engine transition training). Ground training in the morning then flights right after. Flights were in their Travel Air with G5/Garmin 530 avionics. I was paired up with another Military ATP pilot and we took turns flying with the instructor. After each flight we would switch to the back seat which reinforced what we just learned. Lunch is provided daily from different local restaurants. Good instruction and excellent experience overall.
I just finished the program. It took 4 days, i had three prep flights in a Piper Aztec and then the checkride. Instructors were top notch. DPE was from an Air Force background. Recommend the program, especially if you are from a Mil background.
#440
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Joined: Dec 2023
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VSL aero moved their training program to "In the Pattern" at the Denton TX airport. They use the same DPEs from VSL aero.
I just finished the program. It took 4 days, i had three prep flights in a Piper Aztec and then the checkride. Instructors were top notch. DPE was from an Air Force background. Recommend the program, especially if you are from a Mil background.
I just finished the program. It took 4 days, i had three prep flights in a Piper Aztec and then the checkride. Instructors were top notch. DPE was from an Air Force background. Recommend the program, especially if you are from a Mil background.
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