Hey Matt, if someone already said this, I’m sorry (TL;DR) but the degree thing is becoming less and less of an issue, even at the majors - thanks to the looming global pilot shortage (1/2 million by 2022). I think only Delta is still officially requiring a bachelor’s. That said, you’ll have a lot of time at a regional to get a degree if you want (I have a friend flying for GoJet that regularly has 19 days off a month) and it will help your chances of being hired.
Also, I’m not at ATP, but there are at least 3 guys in the program I’m in (simlar to ATP) that are 50+. Don’t get discouraged by your age. I’m 35 and even I’m 15 years late to the game, according to a lot of people. Personally, I think people with some life experience under their belt will make better pilots, at least in ADM and other areas that require some “wisdom” when the feculence hits the flabellum.
Jeff,
The key words there is “officially requiring”. The Majors have and continue to want pilots with degrees. Most of them dropped it as a requirement years ago so they can hire a Medal of Honor winner or the CEO’s nephew. Yes there’s most definitely a shortage but the Majors still have a good supply of pilots WITH degrees available.
Adam
While the “degree thing” is no longer an issue at the regionals, it is very much still one at the majors. I cannot think of a single new hire pilot that I have flown with that does not have a degree.
Chris
Don’t think too much about what people think about your decisions in life that’s what I have learnt till now
Follow your dreams. Do whatever you want to do in life, it’s too short.
Cheers
Sorry for the later reply.
I started with ATP about a year ago and I about to do my CFII checkride. I started at 45 and I have no regrets whatsoever. Don’t focus on what a degree means, focus on your dreams!
It’s hard work as an older person as we need to study harder and work harder than all the youngsters out there, but it is so worth it!
ATP Jean outstanding organization and as long as you have great people skills it will be fun. That’s the whole purpose of being in this industry. There are so many jobs out there with airlines and corporate that means we shouldn’t worry about age and just follow that dream.
Go with your heart and live life my friend.