Quote:
Originally Posted by ArmyFW
I’m currently an army fixed wing guy flying MC-12’s (King air 350). I have 5 years left on my ADSO and then will be free to apply at the airlines, it looks like I’ll have about 1500-1700 hours by then. I know that’s probably no where near enough to get hired directly at a major so I was wondering if it was smart to get my CFI from my local FBO and instruct. They have job openings and are looking for part time instructors. That would probably push me over the 2,000 hour mark when I’m leaving the service. I get out in 2023-2024 when retirements will be at their peak, so if it takes me extra years at a regional I’ll miss the big portion of the hiring wave. My only hesitation is wondering if those extra 300 hours will not be worth the effort because it isn’t turbine time. I’ve made some other posts already and always appreciate the quick feedback from this group. I’m trying to get on top of things early.
Might be worth it to get a CFI anyway, as it adds points to your app, and will build your experience and knowledge base. That said, it’s the most failed checkride, so you could end up with a pink slip that you’ll have to report. Not a huge deal, just make sure you are ready for the ride. Will 300 hours in a Cessna help your app? Won’t hurt, but won’t add much. Another thing to consider, at peak retirement, the airlines will not have quite the pool they have now, so 1500-2000 hours may be competitive. But if you have to do 6-12 months at a regional, it won’t make a huge difference in your career IMO.