Hello again! I wanted to know which route everyone took to getting into the major airlines. I’m kind of up in the air about which route I need to take to becoming a pilot, whether that’s completely focusing on college before flight training, or doing it at the same time (which I know is a bad idea), but which route did you take? I just need a layout of a plan that worked out for you and made you successful. Thanks guys!
Nick,
First I recommend you visit our FAQ section. We outline the route and many other common questions.
Beyond that the best route is the one that works best for you. Getting to a Regional is pretty straightforward but getting to a Major can be more challenging. Maintaining a clean record, being a good employee and some good networking are all key.
That said I do have to ask you about your statement “doing it at the same time (which I know is a bad idea)”. You’re correct it is so what’s the question? Here’s a quick pilot career tip. If/when you make it to the airlines and should you ever find yourself in trouble, starting off your hearing saying “I knew that was a bad idea” will not go well for you 
Adam
Nick,
If you take a look at our biographies section, you will finder detailed personal accounts there. As Adam mentioned, the FAQ section is also a wealth of information.
I will tell you that I got my private license while I was also taking college classes, it was a horrible idea. Flying and college are both full time projects, something is bound to suffer.
Chris
Nick,
What routes are you considering? There’s a lot of different ways. You should be able to narrow it down on your own.
Tory
I’m thinking getting my associates out of the way first, then I’m presented with the choice of going to ATP to get into the regionals and finishing college online while doing that, or continuing college to acquire my bachelors agree and go to ATP after.
Nick,
Getting your AA first is becoming a very common route and it’s definitely very efficient. The only caveat is finishing your school online while working at a Regional requires a fair amount of discipline and hard work. If you believe you’re up to the task then by all means but if not it’s best to complete all your school first.
Adam
Nick,
Getting your associate’s, then flight school, then finishing your undergraduate degree is by far the most efficient route to the majors. As Adam mentioned though, you really need to make sure that you are disciplined enough to go back and finish the degree. It is easy to let life get in the way, but the degree will be very important to advancing your career.
Chris
I, too, am a fan of doing things one at a time. I recommend earning a 4-yr degree first, but if you prefer to just start with your AA and finish the rest while at a regional I wouldn’t advise against it either. Whichever you choose will be fine.
Tory