When should I start the 9 month program?

Airline Pilot Questions & Answers
1

Hi after the last question giving me so much insight and actually helped me make a decision. I just had one more question that came into my mind. Once I get everything in order and ready to apply and go forward with the 9 month program. Is there a certain time of year I should start or is it when I’m ready it can start for me. Also if I get to choose when I start what time of year should I start?

2

Stephan,

We often say “Seniority is EVERYTHING” at the airlines. That applies to pay, upgrade, aircraft, vacation and schedule. Sooner is always better than later.

Adam

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3

I think this depends on location too. I started at KPAE in May, and am further along than some of the people that started ahead of me

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4

That’s what I was thinking I was hoping spring I would be able to start or at the latest early summer. Thank you for that answer I appreciate it. One last question if you don’t mind. I will be leaving my full time job to do full time ATP school. Would you advise working a part time job while going or just only commit to Training?

5

Thank you for your insight! Hopefully it will be good timing for me. I’m going to probably go to the Trenton location in NJ

6

Stephen,

I literally answered this question twice in the last hour (not complaining, just saying). Here’s what I wrote:

“This is America and no one can stop you from working but it’s HIGHLY discouraged. The training is intense and many find it challenging even without any outside distractions. Should you decide to work and fall behind or washout do not expect any sympathy or consideration as ATP is very clear on this. The program is over $80k and that’s a large amount of money to gamble with”.

While I understand and appreciate the desire or need to do so, working during the program is a mistake but ultimately your call.

Adam

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7

I realized you answered my exact question as soon as I sent it haha. My apologies. But I do appreciate you taking the time and responding anyway! I will probably just save up some more money and directly focus on the program. Thank you!

8

Stephen,

Start as soon as possible. The weather will average out over nine months, there really is no ideal weather time to start. As Adam said, seniority is everything, so the sooner the better.

Chris

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