Hello y’all just giving an update!
About a month ago I had an opportunity come up that I couldn’t refuse, so I stepped away from instructing and I am now flying as a pipeline patrol pilot in a 182S. I am enjoying the flying experience so far, it is definitely different from instructing but I have a few friends that want to get their instrument ratings/ friends wanting their PPL so I will be able to keep instructing on weekends.
Congrats on the job Blair.
Just keep in mind when you get hired by an airline they expect you to be a VERY competent and experienced Instrument rated pilot. The instructing is good. Just make sure you keep it up or find other ways to keep yourself sharp.
Adam
Thank you sir! For keeping sharp on top of instructing every now and then, do you think renting a plane and just doing instrument approaches and flying would be good enough to keep me sharp? I imagine it changes from person to person but that is one thing that I don’t want to happen. I want to make sure to stay on top of my instrument flying and knowledge. I am open to suggestions!
Kyle,
As you say it varies. Just do whatever you need to do. These are perishable skills and they can make the difference between just getting hired vs actually getting on the line.
Adam
Kyle,
Congrats on the new position. I am curious, how low do you fly when on those flights?
Chris
Kyle,
Congrats on the new job. There is nothing wrong with the primary amount of hours being from your new pipeline job. For now, instructing on the weekends or doing instrument cross countries every once in a while should be enough to keep your proficient.
Keep in mind every “dual given” or “instrument hour” you can get, the better. Once you get closer to 1500 hours, you might want to spend special time to really sharpen up your instrument skills. If not, you will struggle in initial 121 training.
Hannah
Thank you sir! Usually flying around 700 agl but go as low as 500 agl depending on the situation!
Thank you for the advice! I will definitely do that because even though this is a good way to get my hours my main goal is to be a competent and successful pilot on the 121 side. So I don’t want to lack in that area just because I am getting good flight hours.