Hi, I have been researching some of the options I would have for flight training, and ATP is one of them. I’m currently working toward my PPL at a local flight school. I have been looking into the Endeavor Air and American Airlines Cadet pathways, and listed as one of the steps for both is CFI’ing for ATP. I’ve seen on other forums that some ATP students do not flight instruct for ATP, but will this cancel the pathway? Are these pathways, programs, and financial incentives ($120k potential assistance from Delta through Endeavor) contingent on being a CFI with ATP, or could I get those hours at a local flight school at the conclusion of my time at ATP getting all of the required ratings, AND still qualify for the financial incentives and guaranteed eligibility/interviews/offers/etc. I’m sure I’m missing on some of the specifics, but just in general, I want to be sure that I’m making the right choice that won’t disqualify me from the partnership programs. Ideally, I would get my ratings at ATP, and then have the choice to CFI with ATP or locally to get the necessary hours to then transition to regionals through one of the pathways. Does this option exist? Thank you so much!
Owen,
Seems to me you answered your own question with:
The simple answer is YES, the incentives and perks of being an alumni/instructor at ATP. HOWEVER, some cadets (not many) like Piedmont allow you to instruct/build time on your own or leisure with . I honestly don’t know why you would not choose ATP to instruct if given a job. The perks, flight hours, incentives and pathways are untouchable by many other flight schools…
Brady
Thank you very much! With that in mind, does it matter which ATP location I train at to receive the different pathway opportunities or are they equally available at all locations? For instance, if I attended ATP in Tucson, AZ, would I have the same pathways available to me as if I trained in Seattle or Los Angeles? Also, do airlines prefer those who stayed with ATP to instruct, or is it simply a matter of meeting their standards for certs/ratings, and then attained CFI hours, regardless of where?
Owen,
That’s one of the beauties about ATP, no matter what location you train at, you will receive the same perks, benefits and incentives that someone attending a location on the other half of the states. One thing to bear in mind when choosing a location is, make sure it is convenient for YOU, if I had to choose between staying home and attending flight school versus moving across the states, I would look to keep costs minimal as flight training (as you know) is not cheap.
As for what do the airlines prefer, the airlines prefer a candidate that has quality skill in flying, good knowledge with IFR operations, a good attitude, performed well during their flight training, and team player.
Brady
Got it, that all makes sense. I have a bit of time until I get my PPL and graduate college, but I’m now more aware of my options when time comes for making a decision. Thanks!