I am currently a high school senior and plan on becoming a pilot. 18, and 19 in September
I am currently wondering a few things and hoping I can receive some insight/ answers.
First,
What is the best option to me, what do you guys think?
Should I attend ATP fast track at my local airport?
Should I attend ATP fast track in my desired state, somewhere out of state?
Or should I attend a college university like Ohio University for example for professional flight?
Would ATP be the best option for me to gain seniority? Or should I enjoy my time while I am 18 attending a college and grading another degree as well?
Welcome to the forum. As you get yourself acquainted here, check out the FAQ section as you’ll find the answer to most of your questions there.
You’ll find that we generally recommend at your age you go to college first and then pursue flight training. Attend a college or university and major in something that interests you. Think of it as providing a back up career in case of future aviation furloughs. Upon graduation enroll in ATP’s fast track program. With this plan you will graduate around 21 and be at a regional by 23. You still would be much younger than most airline pilots.
As for a location, chose the ATP location that is most convenient for you. No matter which location you choose, the program will be the same.
I second Hannah on this. While seniority is important, making certain you have a solid foundation for the rest of your life is moreso. College aviation programs are very expensive and offer no backup should flying not workout by choice or other circumstance. You’ll want a degree under your belt, then you can fast track with ATP immediately after.
As for which location is best there’s no such thing. It’s what works best for you.
I was in the same position a few years ago. I chose to get through college as quickly as possible with the best grades possible to bolster by resume. If you’re dedicated, college really doesn’t have to take 4 years, especially if you do it online. I want to get to the airlines as quickly as possible so I went through Liberty’s online bachelors program, got a quick business degree, and am now I attending ATP. This way I could balance getting seniority with an airline and devoting the appropriate time to college.
I am going to ad my voice to the chorus here in that I think your best option is to go to college, get a degree in something other than aviation, and then go to flight school. That is exactly what I did and it worked out great for me. I understand that you have a desire to get into the air now, but there is a bit of maturity that comes with age and that will really help you in your flight training. You are going to want to have a degree anyways, so it is best too do it now while you are in school mode. After that, go to flight school and get flying!
If that’s your concern keep your college costs at a minimum. The airlines want a degree but really don’t need it from an expensive school. Take care of your core requirements at community college and finish the rest locally as well.