Hello, I’m currently a 17 year old senior in highschooler. I have done a handful of research on becoming a pilot in the last few months. As the clock for graduation ticks near, I want to be prepared for the journey ahead. To accomplish this I have created a plan. If everything goes right, I will be at the regionals with a bachelor’s degree at 21. Before I convey my plan, I have a question that has been itching at me for a while.
In the commercial pilot industry, is the demand still outweighing the supply if so, without any major events (like viruses, robots, or anything along those lines) is this trend likely to continue for the next 3-5 years?
I have my plan in the following steps so it is easy to follow and critique (please critique).
Graduate High School (current GPA 3.5, 4.2 weighted). I also have 35 college credits, and on track to 47 (GPA for college is 3.2).
After high school I plan on joining the national guard and completing basic training.
(10 weeks)
After basic training, I plan on going to a part 141 community college to complete an associates degree in aviation and be R-ATP eligible. Which will hopefully all be paid for by the army. (2 years)
Then I plan on starting to complete a bachelor’s degree program online, at my state university which is a continuation of the aviation program from the community college.
While completing step 4, I plan on getting all my flight time (1250) as an instructor. Which leads me to another question. Does ATP flight school allow CFI’s from other places to join their program as an instructor and finish flight time, or do you have to complete training with them so you can instruct for them? If I can’t get my flight time through ATP, I will try other paths.
Start to apply to regionals. When is the best time to start to apply? Is it better to apply to regionals with my ATP written done or complete it after I get hired? Continue online bachelors degree.
Hopefully get hired, then finish my bachelors degree online.
I really just want to know if my plan is solid and also if I’m missing something. It would also be really helpful if the questions are answered. I also know many of you recommend getting a bachelors in a different field for a backup. I’m currently looking into that, and what marketable degree would interest me. If I do find one, the only alteration to my current plan would be, my bachelor’s degree would take longer to finish.
I hope you have a desire to serve. If you’re just going to get your flight ratings paid for, you’re setting yourself up disappointment. It’s difficult to get a flying slot as well. Also consider the commitment you’ll need to give in return.
It’s preferable not to have a degree in aviation. Yes, it achieves the R-ATP mins but it doesn’t provide much of a backup career in case the industry tanks. Also double check that the community college program does indeed qualify for the R-ATP mins. Just because it’s an aviation program doesn’t necessarily mean it specifically qualifies. There is a list online of all the schools that qualify.
ATP does not hire CFI’s that don’t go through the program as students. You’ll have to find employment elsewhere to build time.
You should get your ATM written done prior to interviewing with any regional carriers. They will require that as well.
I think you’ve got a very solid, well thought out plan there. Just a couple of questions/comments:
you ask about the pilot shortage continuing? While it’s forecast to do so, what if it didn’t? Is that a deal breaker? If so Id suggest you choose another career because nothing is guaranteed and if you’re only doing it because you think employment will be easy. You shouldn’t.
Why are you anticipating a 3.2 for college, why not shoot higher? Good enough (particularly in aviation) isn’t always good enough.
finally I’m going up assume you’re joining the Guard for good reason. Id suggest AFTER you’re flying and get your bachelor’s you get a pilot slot in the Guard. I know many who have and it’s a great secondary source of income and benefits.
Thank you Hannah and Adam for your advice/replies, I’m truly grateful. I just have one question for both of you. In regards to "slots” are you referring to the Air National Guard, may you please elaborate on this topic, or if it’s already been talked about, may you please link me to the thread.
Lastly, Adam, I’m not aiming for a “3.2”, that’s just my current college GPA with the credits I have received from the rigorous courses my highschool requires us to take, so we can earn college and highschool credit at the same time. This is called Post-Secondary Enrolment, in my district. I have been slowly improving this GPA, and with a semester left, I plan on doing my best in each class, so that the GPA is raised. Thank you once again.
I am talking about the Air Guard but there are also flying opportunities in the Natl Guard. I would never recommend enlisting simply to fly BUT if you’re already flying again I have many friends who have nothing but good things to say about it.