I'm a commercial pilot ASEL/AMEL, instrument rated,CFI, and MEI. I have 500TT, 167 Multi, 79 Instrument, and a Bachelor's Degree. I have been applying everywhere and cannot find a hit. I'm highly considering getting the CFII, yet money is tight. Does anyone know of any company (whether it is banner towing, mapping, or even flight instructing) that would be willing to hire someone with my experience. I am willing to take anything to build my hours. Seems like most places want 1000 hrs TT and pt. 61 schools want someone with 1000 hrs of dual given for instruction. Any help or clues would be greatly appreciated.

 

northern states is looking for mapping pilots for their 172s.... about the only thing I have seen with that sorta time.

 

ya i applied there the other night.waiting to hear back.

 

Look into a job flying skydivers.. I was in the same boat as you, with 540 total time, and now im logging around 30-40hrs a week..

 

Tried the military? Best pay/benefits/flying out there.

 

Why wouldn’t you already have you CFII?? What if someone wants to do some instrument work... Can you afford to miss an opportunity?

 

Don't just apply. Companies are getting thousands of applications right now they have to sift through. Put a face/voice with a resume. Make a personal contact.

 

Yes the Pay and benefits are decent, If you consider Tricare and Vitamin M a good medical plan. Granted those on flying status do get better treatment than those of us who arent.

As many have said around the forums the Military is not a place to go to build time for a potential airline career. You will be a military officer and leader first, pilot second, family man after (if you have a family).

I have the privleage of working with many different pilots of all sorts of airframes. The economy is hitting us in the military as well. Heavy pilots are being beaten down, used and abused so to speak with no real relief insight. The aicraft are feeling it too. About the only airframes on the active duty side that arent beaten down are some of the fighters. I cant speak for the guard/reserves. Might be another option there

There are Pro's and Con's to each avenue. I can give reasons all day why the military should not be an option. But being in the military I have also had oppurtunities to see certain things first hand. Grass is always greener.

Keep your options open and enjoy whatever path you choose. Dont live life with regrets. Just make sure you do you homework no matter what option you pick

 

do you know any sky diving outfits that are currently looking...........thanks for the help.

 

flyinfinn866,

I would recommend that you invest the time and money into getting your CFI/CFII/MEI. I feel that you will benifit from these ratings now, and down the road (provided you keep it current). You will learn a lot about yourself, human psychology, and most importantly help you to truely master your craft. That's just my 2 cents.

By the way, where are you from? Perhaps it would be easier to give you suggestions if we knew your geographic location.

Good luck,
Laxrox43