Hi,
I am a junior in high school and I really want to be a pilot, but I don't know the best way to get there. I'm not very rich so going to an expensive university like Embry Riddle or Purdue isn't really an option. I've heard that some people say it's not a good idea to major in aviation because of the debt and limited options after college. But I mean if I'm going to be a pilot I can imagine that I will be in a lot of debt anyways. I've thought of a couple options I could take, but I want opinions on what you guys think is the most effective and finnancially "affordable" way to go. Also how did you guys become airline pilots?
Idea 1: university major in aviation then flight instructor then airline
Idea 2: university major something else then flight school then instructor then airline
Also, what do you think about an atp school? Is it worth the money?

The United States (Air Force, Navy) take your choice.

GF

I just starting an aviation program at my college, and I haven't even started flying yet, so I may not be in a position to give you advice, but I do want to give you insight based on my personal beliefs.

I enlisted in the Marine Corps right after high school. I did 5 years doing a non-piloting job. I got out, and earned the coveted "Post 9/11 GI Bill" which is funding 100% of my college tuition PLUS my entire flight training as it is part of the curriculum for my degree.

If I didn't have the gracious support of the GI Bill, I would've absolutely not pursued flight training no matter what school it was!

The most financially effective path to take is to earn a commission (become an officer) in the US Air Force, Marine Corps, or Navy, but depending on the service, pilot jobs/slots may be competitive to get. You would have to talk to an officer recruiter from each branch regarding availability of pilot slots. It may not be what you wanted to hear, but I believe it may ease some life stresses in your future. I highly recommend this for you based on your financial status.

Thanks for the replies (and service)! I didn't think about military, but I'm not so sure if im cut out for the military life. Even though the military doesn't cost you anything financially in terms of training I don't think I'd survive physically or mentally.

Also, just to add more background about me, fiinancially, my family is ok, we are around the middle of the middle class. I can afford to go to college or flight school, but I'm worried I won't be able to pay back debt after I've gone.

Check out Southeastern Oklahoma State University. It’s priced well below some of the big named universities and has a very strong alumni presence. Most, if not all, of the alumni are willing to mentor you along the way. It’s not the fastest paced program, but has a very personal atmosphere as the program isn’t huge. It’s an accredited four year university, so that will allow for the restricted ATP at 1,000 hours instead of the FAA minimum of 1,500. While many others would suggest majoring in something else, my recommendation is to major in aviation. You can always double major to be marketable in another industry. Also, last I knew, there was an out of state tuition waiver if you keep your grades up. Once you get the ability to PM, send a message if you’re interested and I’ll give you a little more info and hook you up with a tour if you want.

Fly first. Start working professionally as a pilot ASAP. Get on with a American Airlines wholly owned (WO). No degree required. Guaranteed path to American Airlines. Get your degree, part time, as a young guy while you fly for the regional airline. If you choose this path you’ll be with AA between 28-32 yrs old, which is sooner than most. Getting a degree (@ 25 yrs old) will allow you to apply to any other airline out there. The degree will also be a good backup in case you have any future medical problems and can’t fly.