I once read a comment on FB that made a lot of sense. It said this, "The issues is that there is not a PILOT SHORTAGE, but a shortage of companies trying to pay for training". With that said, there are tons of pilots outthere. However, they either don't have enoguh money to complete their training such as the CFI or whatever it is, or they are low in hours, plus the requirements here in the U.S are really high in comparison to the other countries.
The problem with corporate jobs is most jobs will not get you hours quickly. I've seen large corporate flight departments looking for either guys with corporate background or they like the regional. 1000 hours PIC on a CRJ and you can easily get into left seat on a challenger or global and make good coin. Either way, Regional is good way to get those hours quickly and get some left seat jet time. Then you are golden.
Great video and sound advice! Even in Canada the regionals are starting to consider pilots with 1000hrs and their ATPL exams written. Its a crazy, whirlwind time to be a pilot.
They also say dont be in the medic field, I'm starting next month to get my PPL....do it, trust me. The school is expensive and you dont get paid much in the beginning but that's the same for doctors and lawyers. After that it's a good sustainable career
Good advice. I spent 7 years at a regional (2007-2014.) It was very bad timing. I spent the entire time in the right seat and about half of it on reserve. My current 91 gig came up as an XLS Captain and I couldn’t be happier. You can’t plan a career on finding a job like mine, and like yours it seems. You can plan for the airline path. That seems to be the biggest difference. I sometimes wonder if I should still apply to the majors since I have a lot of contacts at them now but I just don’t think I could give up my cushy 91 gig.
They are far and few between. The guy I fly with has been here for 37 years. I spend 330 days or so out of the year with my little boy and wife. You can't beat that. I could goto a Major and make twice as much money but, as you said, the QOL is worth so much.
My son a corp pilot PIC Phenom 300 with less than 2 years and he loves it. Its all about timing regional were paying crap 2 years ago and he went corp pilot. Its not all about the $$$$...Its about being happy while making a good living.
This is the truth. I left the Air Force because I thought money would make me happy. Turns out making $150k a year means nothing if you hate the thought of waking up and going into an office of people you'd rather not spend a second with. Being a Loadmaster was the best job I've ever had.
I am a 21 year corporate pilot. Did the regional thing before that. I have been very fortunate to get two amazing corporate flying jobs. 4 years at one and the last 17 at another. Both are well know brand companies. Currently we hire only captains. That’s never been an issue but it’s going to be in the future. We pay very well but, cannot compete with what the majors are paying. For a young guy to build the time we require to even have their resume looked at and as fast as the airlines are hiring newer pilots, we are not going go be able to find people anymore to interview. I really do not want to see us start hiring co-pilots because they will never stay long term. The only thing the good corporate jobs can do is up the pay scales to compete with the airlines. The pilot shortage is real and its not even as bad as it’s going to get yet. Strap in, its going to be interesting the next few years.
Wayne Geffon do you think a guy like myself just starting out is behind the curve in terms of the shortage? I’m 30 years old but have been an A&P for 10 years and am making the switch. Thank you
Gerardo Castillo 30 is young, The shortage is not even close to peaking yet. 2022 is what a lot of the experts are saying is when it will be the worst for the industry. You’re hitting it at the right time. Get your ratings as quick as you can and get into a cockpit to start building time.
Nora Powell lucky. I wish Doc Brown would show In the Delorean. I decided that joining the air national guard would be a good idea 6 months too late. I wasted my 20-30s chasing money.
Great advice, that's exactly how I did it and made it to the majors 19 years ago. Back then you had to have 1500TT and 500 multi just to get an interview at a regional. Totally different world now. Another option that some might think about is an overseas contract. Funny, I fly all over the world and when I'm off, I spend most of my time in Asia. I didn't think about it way back then, but If I was doing it all over today, I would also factor in international routes at my goal airline. Domestic flying is BORING!!
I think he's right. Regional airlines almost has to be a stop along the way. Upgrades to captain are happening much faster now. You can be at the regionals for five years and have 3 years of PIC jet time. From there you can go to the majors or fractionals or whatever. The point is, you will have the most choices at the end of a "tour of duty" at the regionals. Hell, the regionals may even get to a point where you could stay there. They fly such nice equipment and their pay keeps going up. So, who knows.
I have been hearing about a pilot shortage since 1987 when I was just a student pilot. This hiring boom reminds me of the one before September 11th. After September 11th it was misery and heartache for thousands that got furloughed. Two guys I know were with the majors and were NEVER hired back again. Remember, the quicker the hiring boom the quicker the layoffs will be on the other end. It will just be a different trigger event next time, but the end result is the same. Thousands out of work and no good jobs for most. The "real cash" he talks about really isn't because the dollar has lost half its value since 2002. Most people's assessment of what a good salary is today is based on what was good in years past (the 1990's and early 2000's). Divide your salary by 2 and that's what you are really making in 2002 dollars. Not trying to discourage anyone, just telling the truth so you can make your own decision. No offense to this guy because he is an accomplished pilot, but the guy with the "real cash" and the real career is his boss who owns the airplane.
You are right.... that's why you have to have a back up income like a business or something or make money from another skill that you have....because flying for the bosses will not be enough income to buy the plane you fly in most cases. I'm sorry to hear about this. What are these two pilots doing now?
Hi there, I know it's late but I can agree on only "one" thing! The "Real Cash" I understand and agree, but you are saying he doesn't have real career? Dude chill out my man! Flying in the airlines or corporate is a career!
You do have a good point, however, an economic downturn will affect you harder if you are older if you are in your 20s so you still have potential to make it a viable career even in an economic downturn
I like how you're keeping in the radio comms between you and the ground on take off and landing. Have no idea what you are all talking about but still learning. Just gives me an understanding what pilots go through every time you fly a plane.
You can dream all you want while holding a wet commercial ticket. I think that your advice is sound for how the industry is right now. I would add don’t get so focused on one destination (majors) or equipment (777). You might let a great opportunity slip by. Stay in touch with the industry and make a decision that suits you best for the stage that you are. When I started training in September 2001 my dreams were just to get a job after paying through the nose for flight training. I was indoctrinated very quickly into how fast things can take a turn in the aviation industry. In 2002 instructing jobs were scarce, especially for a new CFI. Kept plugging along and landed probably the best situation I could’ve gotten into. After a couple of years I made it to the regionals. In 2005 those jobs just didn’t pay. Everyone was of the mindset that you “paid your dues” then upgrade and maybe, just maybe you could start to dig yourself out of debt. I upgraded quickly and made some smart decisions. The first of which was moving to where I was based. Commuting sucks. After 12 years of regional airline flying and not getting any calls for interviews with majors I decided that I needed to expand my search. Keeping in touch with people over the years is what it takes to get your foot in the door at corporate flight departments. I was offered a captain position on an XLS. I don’t regret leaving the airlines behind. I could’ve made a great living as a lifer at a regional. They really have gotten so much better. But I kept looking around and found an amazing company that rarely has to hire pilots. They just don’t leave. It’s that good. Regionals will get you a ton of quality time very fast. They pay very well these days. The drawback is that you’ll work your butt off. That’s not a bad thing but if you commute it makes family life a lot harder.
Same reason I left 121 to Corporate geek after 12 years cross-con commute. Based at home work half amount will give u totally different world. Its nice you get lucked out to big metal at real airlines that your badge matches to your plane paint. But not all of 121 guys end up to there
I'm 16 and just applied for the AOPA High School scholarship to pay for flight training. I definitely want be become a corporate pilot because it's seems the most spontaneous as fun. The main problem is paying for the all the ratings which can go up to 100k and up and Im really trying to avoid getting loans.
Another gem! I think it's cool to see you guys home based at an uncontrolled field. Students get to see that pattern work and communication stay the same no matter what you're flying. Of course you did come in on a straight final, but you know what I mean.
Lost decade pilot here. I'd echo your sentiments. Having dabbled in all 91,121,and 135, 121 overall provides the best opportunities and QoL. But it's all perspective. Airlines aren't for everyone. Corporate isn't for everyone either. At the end of the day, you have to ask yourself, do you want to be a career corporate or career airline pilot. If you want to go airlines, stay airlines. If you want to go corporate, stay corporate. Sweet channel!
I agree with you 100% I always wanted to go corporate until I started to talk to corporate pilots. Finding a good corporate gig that will survive your whole career is a shot in the dark. Most guys I’ve spoken to have jumped from gig to gig as corporate flight departments are dissolved. Corporate pay also starts high but doesn’t increase as quickly as airlines. When you consider this over an entire 35-40 year career, you’re leaving millions on the table. Then you add in flight benefits, scheduling, and vacation..all adds up to pointing new guys and gals to 121
From what it feels like as somebody who is trying to get into flight school today it seems more difficult to just get into the flight schools than in the industry itself with how steep some of these prices I'm looking at a flight school right now and they will charge me $80,000. For alot of people I know who are interested that is a major turn off
Great video, I’m currently a Pipeline Pilot down in Texas sitting at 800hrs. Currently at a crossroad with my next move. Get into a corporate gig, or do CFI work for a year and go to regionals. One has a higher paycheck in the beginning (Corp) while the other ill be sitting at no more than 30k for another couple years. I know the regionals will be the way to go in the end, but tough choice either way for me.
Get your ratings then go to a turbine... forget giving flight lessons to build time -it’s a complete waste of time. Turbine time even turbo-prop is better than piston twin. TBM or Plat. Learn everything you can and study with Sheppard Air (test readiness) and learn FMS to E-195 Systems.
Good luck finding a job with such a platform. You need PIC hours bottom line. And to get that, minus small outfits/know someone, it’s hard to find. Quickest route is flight instructing straight to regionals.
Spencer Marks. - in some situations, the best way to learn is to teach... SEL or MEL piston will just get you to a very long line of instructors in right seats forever (like Alaska’s Horizon). in this market, one crappy company (example, Great Lakes? Also known as Great Mistakes) has several Plat’s and a few turbine converted DC 3’s. They will abuse you and push the FAR limits including paying you horribly, but you will get enough turbine time within a year to go to run to a regional or find someplace like Skywest. Keep studying because the transition is crazy hard and 70% fail. After that, fly 3 stripes at a major (international) then move up from there if you want. You need to make your own way. Stay dedicated and focused. If you have no other option? Teach... most whom you teach will pass you up because you will satisfied, comfortable and secure. All the best, follow your dreams and have a plan... then stick to it...
I Highly disagree, Instructing is so beneficial. The time I built instructing is invaluable. learning from students mistakes can teach you a lot about flying. Learning to teach also helps you as a pilot truly understand it. Instructing isnt for everyone so ill give you that. I am currently flying a Gulfstream, and many of the employers including my boss is a firm believer in having some amount of instruction time. Also like what others have said.....the PIC time is huge.
Gavin Weissman - I agree that the best way to learn is to teach. Either way, it’s from the right seat. PIC is important although Turbine time is King. I was more directing the pilots that are looking for the “Fast Track” to the airlines. I fly a Phenom 300, AeroStar 700 and Helicopter, all part 91. I missed the airline route because when I was targeting the ATP as a pipsqueak, my timing was horrible. The late 1970’s had a mass pilot exodus from the military to the airlines and cargo. We are now including these pilots from the 1970’s retirements into the pilot explosion into the present loop of demand. In closing, I’m not taking anything away from flight instructors... anything above the ground is better than being on or in it...
Robert Kaindl agreed. The fast track is a bit harder that's for sure. You are correct, turbine time is gold. Without any of that, it's hard to go anywhere! I was fortunate to get into this 91/135 job flying Gulfstreams when I did.
Good to hear! I am planning to jump into reigionals when I turn 21 (17 now). In the mean time I'll probably be a CFI, and I actually just passed my FIA today so that's a step in the right direction ;D
You did that while you were 17 years old? I'm 15 and I'm not sure how it really works but I can really see myself going into a career like this. Can I start at 16 or 17 too? what do I have to do? Start at flight school?
Yea, so basically I've done the Private, Instrument, Commercial, FIA, FOI, and CFII written tests. Yes, I'm only a PPL holder, and 17, but I'm planning on getting it all done within less than a year from now. Don't take all those written tests if you dont plan on a fast pace! They only last two years. The reason I took them all back to back is because it's just easier for your brain. Also that way and now I can now just kinda sit back and enjoy my textbooks in peace. If you're wondering what I used: ASA's test prep books. They're the best, and aimed at only getting you past the test (they work like a dream) If you're wondering about my scores: PPL = 93; Instrument = 88; Commercial = 92; FOI = 87; FIA = 79, CFII = 88.
Mergg, I was planning on going to a university in upstate ny with a full ride hopefully (Syracuse university) and take flight school during school or vacation. would my plan be harder and more expensive or am I better off going to an aviation college?
It's gonna take you at least a year or two to get all ratings, so you probs can't just do it in a vacation. Also make sure you're 18 or older, otherwise you can't do any commercial stuff.
I’m considering becoming a pilot. Actually going to start at Leading Edge Aviation in Logan. I find it kind of serendipitous to type in piloting jobs on you tube and the first video I clicked on, you fly right into my home. Ima get my wings!
That’s what I’m doing now , just got into flight program here in Boston. Excited! Thanks for the advice! I don’t really get the stigma young pilots have towards the airlines, i here it a lot. I think a lot of that comes from the younger crowd who has been flying with their dad since they were kids and have been flying since 16-17. It’s an entitled attitude of kids who expect the Pilot world to open wide up for them because their knowledge isn’t represented by their experience. That’s just not the way it works tho, insurance doesn’t care. The fact that airlines are taking second Career new pilots right now is something a guy like me is extremely grateful for.
I started flying when I was 16 I got all my ratings by 20 except for cfi. Paid for it all myself by working part-time jobs and then in the 90s flying was a little bit more cheaper than it is nowadays. Got a gig out of college flying corporate started flying Cessna 310 then after a few years up to King Air 90 s. I had no desire to work for the Airlines and fly school buses. I have friends that flew Regional crj's and dash 8's for years and the pay was absolutely horrible and on call 24/7 365 days a year. If I could do it all over again I would still get my ratings and then from college go right into the military and fly in the military I would have had the best of both worlds serving my country like most of my family members have and I get to fly. There is an old saying about Pilots you fly for the love of flying not for the paychecks. I eventually went back to school got my master's degree in business and I work in the healthcare industry I make a good living. I still fly but just for pleasure and fun.
I snatch any flight time I can get,even looking at aircraft or being around a airport gives me joy. I hate the fact that neither small fields wont hire.Just be grateful yall especially the ones who have had there parents get in on their lessons, always have been jealous of you guys but be safe. 73'
Find a flight school that has a direct recruit program. The school I went to was associated with Piedmont and they looked at us before the "outside" applicants. Pretty sweet deal.
Awesome advice. I'm currently a CFI at Oklahoma State University. Planning to instruct through summer than move on to Boutique or the like. After that the regionals.
My son is 16 now...solo'd on his 16th birthday ... we have many contacts / friends flying corporate for major oil and gas companies here in Tulsa ... and he has his eyes on a regional for the same reasons you mention here. His BIG questions is ... how does he get the hours to get a look from the regional airlines or for that matter the corporate folks? I agree 1000% on the relationships and contacts ... as a matter of fact his flight instructor is Captain in a Challenger 300 ... and he's a personal friend ... so we are just listening to anyone / everyone who might have advise that makes sense.
I’m at UND, but I cant decide if I want to go commerical or military. Once you go commerical you cant really turn back. There are alot of special experiences in the military that you can have
So cool I can’t get over it. I was going for my license in 2014 but deemed it not something I could do based on market conditions at that time. Cost vs initial pay. Every person I talked too said I would only make 15 dollars per hour right after training. Also stated the market was saturated with pilots. Seems my decision to obtain my CDL was not the best option. I wonder if it’s too late for me? I would settle for anything second or third tier by comparison to the airlines. I’m 46 in March. Love the Channel man. So cool.
I hate long flights. Where would you go if you want short flights only (under 1 hour), lots of visual approaches, no night flights and a schedule (no 24/7 standby) ? (I used to fly the A320 series at a major airline and it was really boring, 99% ILS approaches, lots of night flights)
WMU flies out of KAZO (kilo alpha zulu oscar), and they have a few flight simulators for training. They have what is called,"Aviation outlook day," which is basicly where pilots and airforce recruiters (currently recruiting for the F-35) come to KAZO in a hangar, and they talk to the students. Sometimes they have a working boeing 727 that usually flies into KAZO, and students get to check it out (like the cockpit, etc...). Keep in mind that most of these people who are either aircraft maintenance people, and/or pilots who used to go to WMU. WMU, they're one of the top 3 aviation colleges in the U.S. They're equipped with the latest technology available to them. I know for a fact that their training aircraft is the cirrus Sr 20 and/or the cirrus Sr 22. What college did you go to for aviation pilot vlogs?
Really needed hear another pilots opinion on this. The baby boomers are all retiring now and that makes becoming an atp all the more desirable. I already got my PPL at 17 a few months back and hope to get my ratings and other liscenses as soon as possible. The regionals and good connections are the way to go.
Heyyyy SDL my home airport!! That's good advice , I do want to go corporate and have been trying to figure out how to avoid regionals but your points are something to think about. Thank you!
In Response:: - I agree that the best way to learn is to teach. Either way, it’s from the right seat. PIC is important although Turbine time is King. I was more directing the pilots that are looking for the “Fast Track” to the airlines. I fly a Phenom 300, AeroStar 700 and Helicopter, all part 91. I missed the airline route because when I was targeting the ATP as a pipsqueak, my timing was horrible. The late 1970’s had a mass pilot exodus from the military to the airlines and cargo. We are now including these pilots from the 1970’s retirements into the pilot explosion into the present loop of demand. In closing, I’m not taking anything away from flight instructors... anything above the ground is better than being on or in it...
Great advice for sure! (to be 21 again)...Lol I'm 41 now and always been in corporate aviation as a pilot all part 91. Making North of $160k a year flying 4 Citations-500-560XL-650 & 750. The past 13 years as a full time contractor with no benefits what so ever.. I keep telling all the new copilots to go 121! SHOOT even I want to go sometimes.. No 4 year degree and the massive pay cut.....Great videos Cory!
Great job sir.... finishing my commercial single/multi engine now..ill be ready in less than month with a little over 300 hrs. Thank u for doing this video
I got out of college in 03. Similar economic situation. I towed banners in SoCal, played Bush pilot in western Alaska and drove helos in the military. Right now is one of the best hiring eras I’ve ever seen. You can go anywhere really.
Josh Abbey Not too bad actually. Usually it’s s 2 on 2 off schedule depending on where you work. You generally ship your own food because it’s prohibitively expensive to buy it out in the Bush. The pay, depending on who you work for is actually not too bad.
Awesome, it's definitely a career that I'd strongly consider. Being an airline pilot looks good but being a bush pilot is the DREAM. Would love working out in Alaska. What type of pilots license is required?
I’m 18. (Senior in high school) and I’m majoring in aviation at either Kent State or Delaware State University starting this August. Im making my decision after I visit Kent next week. As of right now I think I’m going the regional->major airline route. I still have a couple years to think it completely through though. I know the airline route won’t be easy especially the first couple years but I think once my seniority is up there the quality of life will be amazing both at the regional and mainline level. Either way, just looking forward to flying for a living. It’s always been my dream.
@@streetfutsalking4814 It’s my 3rd year here at Kent State! I’m 1/3 done with my Commercial, working on my Instrument at the moment. Hoping to start applying for ANG/Reserve pilot slots next year as a senior! If I don’t have any luck there, the “worst” case scenario will be to go straight into the regionals. I love the decision I made and I’m glad you asked for the update, LOL!
@@JonnyJets yea I’d love to talk about it my insta is @aviator_ethan My cousin is also 3rd year at kent and I have a friend going there as well. In my situation I’m majoring in aviation management there as a fallback if I lose my medical but I’m heading to ATP for flying.
Great video Cory. I have a friend who got fed up with corporate I think it was a management problem he then took a year off and got a 20k signing bonus with Westjet and is flying an ERJ 170 or 175 and is based in LA where his home is. Safe travels.
Capt. David Tatum, American Airlines,Director of Pilot Recruitment. American has thousands of current and competitive applications on hand. With our regional flow providing approximately 50% of all our new hire positions, we have considerably more great candidates than we have positions to fill. Despite the fact many of our applicants are also applying at other mainline carriers, our competitive pool has remained very consistent in size if not growing slightly. We are certainly in good shape for the foreseeable future when it comes to providing our cockpits with the best aviators possible.
And that 50% is spread among 3 WO carriers. Perhaps it is time to be at another major's WO. Or be at a regional that treats its pilots better than many of the WOs. I think that the regionals are making good use of all this "pilot shortage crisis" hype to keep the pipeline pretty full for the majors. Time will tell once the forced retirements really ramp up, but right now it sure looks like the majors will be just fine.
Hey man nice video. On one of your future videos can you talk about the differences between corporate, regional, major, etc? How are the actual job responsibilities different, what does a day in the life of or week in the life of look like, etc.
Hey! I want to get based out of Detroit. Metro area is great, most of city is decent too, just like any city however, it has its rough spots. Same with Chicago, Tampa, NYC, LA, Denver, whatever
College aviation student here! I'm in my first year 2 flights away from getting my private license. I will be in school for the next 4 years and then go into the regional airlines
Just bought a Cessna 172 and began my training. My goal: First Officer with NetJets or FlexJets in less than 2 years. Ambitious - but I'm all in. Thank you for the great videos.
I am a student at Oklahoma State University working on a Professional Pilot major to get a restricted ATP (only requires 1000 hours, not 1500). I really love corporate aviation, and hope that one day I can fly Citations and other luxurious jets. But the amount of money that regions are shelling out for pilots is just crazy. As someone who is paying for all of their school through loans that I’m going to have to pay back, it’s too good to pass up. Maybe after building up some 121 time and paying off the loans I can start working in the corporate side of aviation. P.S. Absolutely love the videos. Would love to see some more videos about if you’d ever consider going to the airlines, or more advice for young pilots like me!
Man I am out here in the oil fields driving a crappy crude oil truck 14 hours a day 6 days a week in this heat sweating all day, no a/c. I stopped flying in 2009 obtained my commercial single, instrument. Have a BS in Aviation Admin. It is so tempting to fly again, these student pilots have it made. Really thinking on coming back because trucking is getting old. Almost no time off or at home to have a life. Make good $$ so would be a pay cut for a few years.
Lol, since I’m from east coast thought when you said Logan it was Boston 🙄, now in Phoenix though! What would be your suggestion if you wanted to live in Denver for a regional? United?
Corporate is hit and (mostly) miss. If you can find a nice corporate dept with a good schedule, reserve or coverage pilots, and good pay in an affordable town.. you’ve probably found the best job in aviation. Rarely is this ever the case. Depts are usually small and cheap and your days off are the days the boss decides not to fly or when the plane is in maintenance. You hang around the airport for hours only to not fly, and hang around for hours or days at your destination which might not be that great. Then there are the fractionals where they make it on aircraft utilization like the airlines.. without any of the perks or reserve crew airlines have. Dead last is charter... feast or famine... and you’d better be ready to drop everything when it’s time to make hay and don’t burn any bridges just in case you might have to go back to your old job.
My goal is to head to Lift Academy right after high school. Do my training there, and go right to Republic airlines. Fly with them for however long, and if I can move to american airlines.
Why do you turn the yoke in the direction of turn when you're taxiing? Does it have to do with the balance of a large plane? I know that is not standard procedure for single engines.
American pilots are so lucky, I’m from EASA land and jobs are still hard to come by for me (even instructing). I qualified in 2013, 350TT, I’m in my early 30s,only been for 3 interviews (I’m lucky to get a response from a job application) so maybe it’s just me but there’s no shortage of pilots in Europe IMO
Hey there, i’m 16 years old at the moment and my dream is to become a pilot. I’m from Holland (aka the Netherlands) and i would love to fly for KLM one day. I would like to be an airline pilot because of all the people you interact with, you get to know so much people and thats what makes an airline pilot the best for me. Ofcourse i would take any chance of becoming a pilot if i didnt have a choice, but times are good at the moment so hopefully i got a choice. I’m going to sign up for my study as a pilot next year, to hopefully be accepted and become a pilot.
Sophomore here at UND, Working on instrument rating with about 150 hours. Working till I get my 1000 HR restricted ATP and going wherever the industry takes me
Great content! It’s great seeing pilots posting videos. I just started a channel myself that covers transitioning into the airlines. Keep up the good work!
If you have all of the ratings required by the regional airlines you are on the fast track for advancement in the field of aviation! It's tough in the beginning with the starting salaries and inconveniences that come with the job but well worth the time. Look at it as an entry level position into the field of aviation! You start in the minor league and move up to the major league! Good Luck to all aspiring pilots!
My plan is to go into the Army after i get my AA and while in get my ba in history through ASU and after i get out go to North Dakota University to get my MA in history and go to flight school with the GI bill
Hey Corey! I started my flight training just 3 weeks ago out of the 2nd busiest aerodrome by aircraft traffic in Australia, and was wondering what that small artificial horizon in the middle is for and how come it flashes in the video? Does it flash in real time too or is it a camera thing? keep up the quality content!!
Personally I think I'd be happier with the corporate route. It's more my style, and I'm sure my view will change as I get older, but currently I would like the idea of getting a call and being at the airport 2 hours later. I'm a pretty reserved guy and I don't make a lot of plans and I enjoy sitting at home relaxing, so I wouldn't have many plans get cancelled from that. However, the airline pay (in the long run) is just too good to pass up. Corporate pay tops out around 150k, whereas airline pay tops out around 300k. I get the notion of "chase the dream, not the money" but whether I get into corporate or airline I will still be living the dream as a pilot. So it's basically why choose flying job A that is a little more fun but pays let over flying job B that is a little less fun but pays more?
Corey(hope I spelled that correctly), I plan to go to flight school in a few years when I have saved up enough for it. Regionals are definitely hiring big time and I understand you can go right seat after only two years with some flight schools. That seems odd to me. Can one even gain enough airtime to be a first officer after only flight school? Also, I am now nearly 39 years old. Do you think that is too late to go for a career as a commercial pilot? I have a career already that earns decent money but I hate it. I firmly believe that if you love what you do, you never really work. Flying would do that for me.
It takes a certain type of person to be a pilot.Nerves of steel, concentration ,memory, spatial awareness and a host of other attributes to accomplish becoming a pilot.Just think how many people start and drop out, if everyone that started taking flying lessons finished you would have an excess of pilots, and now many younger people can't afford the high cost of flight school along with the cost of college which is required for you to even be considered for almost any professional pilot job! I'd still give it a go if I felt like I could get hired at my age,I'm one of those guys that started young joined the Air Force after HS was going to flight school but life got difficult after the Air Force money was tight and work took many hours of my time.Of course I can look back now and realize there are things I could have done differently to make it happen, but that's life.
I'm retired military (no aviation background). I'm planning to start a different career. What's the best option for a man like myself? I'm 37 years old. Thanks for the advice! Love your video.
Victor Velasco if ya have your degree and don’t mind a large bill for flight training then one option is ALL ATP (I don’t work for them either) as it’s one stop shopping and you’ll teach for them after you’re done earning your ratings.
I been done with school for 4 years (associates only) and have my commercial multi with 270 hours. Haven’t been able to find anything and CFI isn’t for me but a couple months ago I found out about a sky diving club that will take you on but they don’t pay you. Thoughts?
Pilot Vlogs I just want to fly whether its corporate or airline. Corporate seems like it would be fun because I have an interest in smaller planes but on the other hand I currently work with Southwest doing ramp work and wonder if I want to try getting into Southwest inflight.
I would love to become a commercial airline pilot as it is my dream but there's none sponsored program which allow us to fund the first part of our training in Europe. I hope this will change in the comming few years if the pilot shortage is about to get bigger and bigger. Else I will just get my degree in University and see afterwards. Maybe I should emigrate towards the USA...
What altitude did you start the landing checklist? It seemed pretty high but the GoPro could have something to do with that. Just curious, Cody! Love your channel man, best vids around!
would personally have loved going to the air force academy but you better have real good grades. Even then you aren't guaranteed to get in. Graduated high school in 2017 and right now I'm at ATP working on my com multi, hopefully will hit the 1,500 hour mark as I'm turning 21
Not for regionals, and the only major you need it for is delta. Still gonna get a 2 year degree before i turn 21 and im gonna try and get my bachelors in the regionals that way ill have the degree and seniority (hopefully)
Im a 17 year old junior in high school with 30 hours doing cross countries and preparing for my private pilot check ride, many people including most of my instructors have told me that air force ROTC would be the cheapest and best way to go. How do you feel about the Air Force if thats the way I wanted to make it to mainline commercial flying? If any other experienced pilots see this feel free to respond as well, I need all the info I can get!
The Air Force route is a great route IF you want to be part of the Air Force and serve your country but if your ultimate goal is to fly for the airlines it’s probably not the best idea. If you are determined and passionate enough you will do it plus it would be a waste of however many years you need to serve before you can leave. Trust me, you will be able to do it just follow your heart.
If going into the military and everything that entails sounds like a good idea to you, regardless of your goals, then you should definitely go that route. Keep in mind that setting your sights on the USAF as a path may not produce the results you want as quickly as another. Though going in through ROTC might be quicker than I was offered going through basic. Point is, I went into the USAF because I wanted to fly and I learned quickly that everyone that wants it doesn't get it. It's hard enough to get into the USAF as it is. No matter what you do, keep your sight on flying, whether it be on the side or not. I didn't do that young enough.
Christopher Sorensen Thanks for the advice, that has been my main concern that it will be a while since I’m able to start flying again if I even get there after ROTC.
Would you say getting a college education, a minimum of a bachelors degree, is essential to making it in the airline and aviation industry? Now many of the regionals are offering flow throughs to some majors. Is it too big of a gamble given that if you are laid off with one airline you may be in limbo trying to get in with another? Thanks and keep up the great videos!
I’m starting my training now at age 16. What advice do you have for college and that sort of stuff? I’m getting my PPL before I graduate high school and I’m thinking I’ll get my commercial and ATP during college and also my bachelors. I live near KLUK and KCVG so there’s great opportunity all around (corporate, regional, freight, etc). I’m really not sure what i want to do because instead of regional I could do Ameriflight’s gateway program to UPS (they fly out of CVG) etc. any advice will help, my first lesson is in a week!!
How many checkrides do you think will make it hard for you to get hired by a regional airline? Do you personally have any checkride failures? I failed my commercial multi recently and its very hard to get it off my mind.
I would like some advice for someone who has their commercial rating who hasn't flown on a regular basis for almost 7 years and would love to get back into the left seat.
You have your instrument too? Go get current. Knock the rust off. Then go to one of those 2-3 week-long programs to get your ME add-on. They typically run $3k-$5k.Then get your CFI and start building time. Some places you can get a kick-back to help with the CFI/CFII/MEI costs of you work for them as a CFI.
I just got a corporate job flying and have about 20 hours turbine. I also tow banners where I am getting 90% of my time right now. I am at 740 hours total, but now I cant figure out if majors would hire me if I get my turbine time with my corporate job.. It would save me about a years time if I can build my turbine here, skip the regional and jump straight to majors, but major airline recruiters wont talk to me to tell me yes or no... all they specify is turbine time on their websites.. so Id imagine I could.. What do you think? My end goal is Majors.... I need to pay off my student loans somehow haha. Thanks for your time and input!
I once read a comment on FB that made a lot of sense. It said this, "The issues is that there is not a PILOT SHORTAGE, but a shortage of companies trying to pay for training". With that said, there are tons of pilots outthere. However, they either don't have enoguh money to complete their training such as the CFI or whatever it is, or they are low in hours, plus the requirements here in the U.S are really high in comparison to the other countries.
very well said. There are several companies that provide free training to their citizens.
you nailed it, the price of admission is so high, that its really unrealistic, unless want to commit financiual sucicde.
@@fredyuldashev name a few...
@@fredyuldashev What companies do this?
@Fred Yuldashev, I too would like to know who provides free training.
As a young pilot going into an collegians aviation program next year I really loved this vlog. Thanks for the tips !
Yeah. How did that work out for you? I bet I can guess. LOLOL
I live near Detroit and it’s my main airport closest to me, only about an hour drive, and I plan on becoming a pilot, shit!
The problem with corporate jobs is most jobs will not get you hours quickly. I've seen large corporate flight departments looking for either guys with corporate background or they like the regional. 1000 hours PIC on a CRJ and you can easily get into left seat on a challenger or global and make good coin. Either way, Regional is good way to get those hours quickly and get some left seat jet time. Then you are golden.
Great video and sound advice! Even in Canada the regionals are starting to consider pilots with 1000hrs and their ATPL exams written. Its a crazy, whirlwind time to be a pilot.
Thank you for regaining a little hope. I been on RUclips everyone is saying dont be a pilot
They also say dont be in the medic field, I'm starting next month to get my PPL....do it, trust me. The school is expensive and you dont get paid much in the beginning but that's the same for doctors and lawyers. After that it's a good sustainable career
Good advice. I spent 7 years at a regional (2007-2014.) It was very bad timing. I spent the entire time in the right seat and about half of it on reserve. My current 91 gig came up as an XLS Captain and I couldn’t be happier. You can’t plan a career on finding a job like mine, and like yours it seems. You can plan for the airline path. That seems to be the biggest difference. I sometimes wonder if I should still apply to the majors since I have a lot of contacts at them now but I just don’t think I could give up my cushy 91 gig.
They are far and few between. The guy I fly with has been here for 37 years. I spend 330 days or so out of the year with my little boy and wife. You can't beat that. I could goto a Major and make twice as much money but, as you said, the QOL is worth so much.
My son a corp pilot PIC Phenom 300 with less than 2 years and he loves it. Its all about timing regional were paying crap 2 years ago and he went corp pilot. Its not all about the $$$$...Its about being happy while making a good living.
Money isn’t everything. I gave up the airlines and now fly corporate. I get so much more time with my family. That’s worth millions!
This is the truth. I left the Air Force because I thought money would make me happy. Turns out making $150k a year means nothing if you hate the thought of waking up and going into an office of people you'd rather not spend a second with. Being a Loadmaster was the best job I've ever had.
Yes
I am a 21 year corporate pilot. Did the regional thing before that. I have been very fortunate to get two amazing corporate flying jobs. 4 years at one and the last 17 at another. Both are well know brand companies. Currently we hire only captains. That’s never been an issue but it’s going to be in the future. We pay very well but, cannot compete with what the majors are paying. For a young guy to build the time we require to even have their resume looked at and as fast as the airlines are hiring newer pilots, we are not going go be able to find people anymore to interview. I really do not want to see us start hiring co-pilots because they will never stay long term. The only thing the good corporate jobs can do is up the pay scales to compete with the airlines. The pilot shortage is real and its not even as bad as it’s going to get yet. Strap in, its going to be interesting the next few years.
Wayne Geffon do you think a guy like myself just starting out is behind the curve in terms of the shortage? I’m 30 years old but have been an A&P for 10 years and am making the switch. Thank you
Gerardo Castillo 30 is young, The shortage is not even close to peaking yet. 2022 is what a lot of the experts are saying is when it will be the worst for the industry. You’re hitting it at the right time. Get your ratings as quick as you can and get into a cockpit to start building time.
Wayne Geffon Thanks man! I plan to build time pretty quickly as I'll be doing of my training in my own airplane.
What can I do after 250 flight hours and a CPL? I don't want to pay more for flight hours
@floatpool I know, but do you think in a fee years there will still be a shortage of them?
I’m going into the Air Force to fly c-17’s! Hope to get into USAFA, but can also do ROTC in college
Nora Powell I am stationed at USAFA enlisted. Hit me up with questions! The prep school is always an option as well.
Nathan Carr I will definitely do that. I’m going to go organize them!
Nora Powell lucky. I wish Doc Brown would show In the Delorean. I decided that joining the air national guard would be a good idea 6 months too late. I wasted my 20-30s chasing money.
@@nathancarr8900 I was a Preppie, Class of '88. Brings back memories!
Great advice, that's exactly how I did it and made it to the majors 19 years ago. Back then you had to have 1500TT and 500 multi just to get an interview at a regional. Totally different world now. Another option that some might think about is an overseas contract. Funny, I fly all over the world and when I'm off, I spend most of my time in Asia. I didn't think about it way back then, but If I was doing it all over today, I would also factor in international routes at my goal airline. Domestic flying is BORING!!
J.C J.C. Yes very true but family is a struggle with the over seas contracts. I would absolutely agree it's probably way more fun
Overseas flying is a different lifestyle with different stresses
I think he's right. Regional airlines almost has to be a stop along the way. Upgrades to captain are happening much faster now. You can be at the regionals for five years and have 3 years of PIC jet time. From there you can go to the majors or fractionals or whatever. The point is, you will have the most choices at the end of a "tour of duty" at the regionals. Hell, the regionals may even get to a point where you could stay there. They fly such nice equipment and their pay keeps going up. So, who knows.
I have been hearing about a pilot shortage since 1987 when I was just a student pilot. This hiring boom reminds me of the one before September 11th. After September 11th it was misery and heartache for thousands that got furloughed. Two guys I know were with the majors and were NEVER hired back again. Remember, the quicker the hiring boom the quicker the layoffs will be on the other end. It will just be a different trigger event next time, but the end result is the same. Thousands out of work and no good jobs for most. The "real cash" he talks about really isn't because the dollar has lost half its value since 2002. Most people's assessment of what a good salary is today is based on what was good in years past (the 1990's and early 2000's). Divide your salary by 2 and that's what you are really making in 2002 dollars. Not trying to discourage anyone, just telling the truth so you can make your own decision. No offense to this guy because he is an accomplished pilot, but the guy with the "real cash" and the real career is his boss who owns the airplane.
You are right.... that's why you have to have a back up income like a business or something or make money from another skill that you have....because flying for the bosses will not be enough income to buy the plane you fly in most cases. I'm sorry to hear about this. What are these two pilots doing now?
Hi there, I know it's late but I can agree on only "one" thing! The "Real Cash" I understand and agree, but you are saying he doesn't have real career? Dude chill out my man! Flying in the airlines or corporate is a career!
You do have a good point, however, an economic downturn will affect you harder if you are older if you are in your 20s so you still have potential to make it a viable career even in an economic downturn
I like how you're keeping in the radio comms between you and the ground on take off and landing.
Have no idea what you are all talking about but still learning. Just gives me an understanding what pilots go through every time you fly a plane.
the added ATC to your in-flight videos is really exciting, compared to your older videos before you switched companies, thank you for the excitement
You can dream all you want while holding a wet commercial ticket. I think that your advice is sound for how the industry is right now. I would add don’t get so focused on one destination (majors) or equipment (777). You might let a great opportunity slip by.
Stay in touch with the industry and make a decision that suits you best for the stage that you are.
When I started training in September 2001 my dreams were just to get a job after paying through the nose for flight training.
I was indoctrinated very quickly into how fast things can take a turn in the aviation industry.
In 2002 instructing jobs were scarce, especially for a new CFI. Kept plugging along and landed probably the best situation I could’ve gotten into.
After a couple of years I made it to the regionals. In 2005 those jobs just didn’t pay. Everyone was of the mindset that you “paid your dues” then upgrade and maybe, just maybe you could start to dig yourself out of debt.
I upgraded quickly and made some smart decisions. The first of which was moving to where I was based. Commuting sucks.
After 12 years of regional airline flying and not getting any calls for interviews with majors I decided that I needed to expand my search.
Keeping in touch with people over the years is what it takes to get your foot in the door at corporate flight departments.
I was offered a captain position on an XLS. I don’t regret leaving the airlines behind.
I could’ve made a great living as a lifer at a regional. They really have gotten so much better.
But I kept looking around and found an amazing company that rarely has to hire pilots. They just don’t leave. It’s that good.
Regionals will get you a ton of quality time very fast. They pay very well these days. The drawback is that you’ll work your butt off. That’s not a bad thing but if you commute it makes family life a lot harder.
tweeter125 I
Same reason I left 121 to Corporate geek after 12 years cross-con commute. Based at home work half amount will give u totally different world. Its nice you get lucked out to big metal at real airlines that your badge matches to your plane paint. But not all of 121 guys end up to there
I'm 16 and just applied for the AOPA High School scholarship to pay for flight training. I definitely want be become a corporate pilot because it's seems the most spontaneous as fun. The main problem is paying for the all the ratings which can go up to 100k and up and Im really trying to avoid getting loans.
Good to see you're back and uploading again. Keep it up
Another gem! I think it's cool to see you guys home based at an uncontrolled field. Students get to see that pattern work and communication stay the same no matter what you're flying. Of course you did come in on a straight final, but you know what I mean.
Lost decade pilot here. I'd echo your sentiments. Having dabbled in all 91,121,and 135, 121 overall provides the best opportunities and QoL. But it's all perspective. Airlines aren't for everyone. Corporate isn't for everyone either. At the end of the day, you have to ask yourself, do you want to be a career corporate or career airline pilot. If you want to go airlines, stay airlines. If you want to go corporate, stay corporate.
Sweet channel!
I agree with you 100% I always wanted to go corporate until I started to talk to corporate pilots. Finding a good corporate gig that will survive your whole career is a shot in the dark. Most guys I’ve spoken to have jumped from gig to gig as corporate flight departments are dissolved. Corporate pay also starts high but doesn’t increase as quickly as airlines. When you consider this over an entire 35-40 year career, you’re leaving millions on the table. Then you add in flight benefits, scheduling, and vacation..all adds up to pointing new guys and gals to 121
From what it feels like as somebody who is trying to get into flight school today it seems more difficult to just get into the flight schools than in the industry itself with how steep some of these prices I'm looking at a flight school right now and they will charge me $80,000. For alot of people I know who are interested that is a major turn off
Including me. Who would live and die for aviation. :(
Go part 61
Great video, I’m currently a Pipeline Pilot down in Texas sitting at 800hrs. Currently at a crossroad with my next move. Get into a corporate gig, or do CFI work for a year and go to regionals. One has a higher paycheck in the beginning (Corp) while the other ill be sitting at no more than 30k for another couple years. I know the regionals will be the way to go in the end, but tough choice either way for me.
Get your ratings then go to a turbine... forget giving flight lessons to build time -it’s a complete waste of time. Turbine time even turbo-prop is better than piston twin. TBM or Plat. Learn everything you can and study with Sheppard Air (test readiness) and learn FMS to E-195 Systems.
Good luck finding a job with such a platform. You need PIC hours bottom line. And to get that, minus small outfits/know someone, it’s hard to find. Quickest route is flight instructing straight to regionals.
Spencer Marks. - in some situations, the best way to learn is to teach... SEL or MEL piston will just get you to a very long line of instructors in right seats forever (like Alaska’s Horizon). in this market, one crappy company (example, Great Lakes? Also known as Great Mistakes) has several Plat’s and a few turbine converted DC 3’s. They will abuse you and push the FAR limits including paying you horribly, but you will get enough turbine time within a year to go to run to a regional or find someplace like Skywest. Keep studying because the transition is crazy hard and 70% fail. After that, fly 3 stripes at a major (international) then move up from there if you want. You need to make your own way. Stay dedicated and focused. If you have no other option? Teach... most whom you teach will pass you up because you will satisfied, comfortable and secure. All the best, follow your dreams and have a plan... then stick to it...
I Highly disagree, Instructing is so beneficial. The time I built instructing is invaluable. learning from students mistakes can teach you a lot about flying. Learning to teach also helps you as a pilot truly understand it. Instructing isnt for everyone so ill give you that. I am currently flying a Gulfstream, and many of the employers including my boss is a firm believer in having some amount of instruction time. Also like what others have said.....the PIC time is huge.
Gavin Weissman - I agree that the best way to learn is to teach. Either way, it’s from the right seat. PIC is important although Turbine time is King. I was more directing the pilots that are looking for the “Fast Track” to the airlines. I fly a Phenom 300, AeroStar 700 and Helicopter, all part 91. I missed the airline route because when I was targeting the ATP as a pipsqueak, my timing was horrible. The late 1970’s had a mass pilot exodus from the military to the airlines and cargo. We are now including these pilots from the 1970’s retirements into the pilot explosion into the present loop of demand. In closing, I’m not taking anything away from flight instructors... anything above the ground is better than being on or in it...
Robert Kaindl agreed. The fast track is a bit harder that's for sure. You are correct, turbine time is gold. Without any of that, it's hard to go anywhere! I was fortunate to get into this 91/135 job flying Gulfstreams when I did.
Good to hear! I am planning to jump into reigionals when I turn 21 (17 now). In the mean time I'll probably be a CFI, and I actually just passed my FIA today so that's a step in the right direction ;D
Pilot Vlogs so would regionals still have a shortage at that time? If I pursued the career I’d probably be in regionals by 2025.
You did that while you were 17 years old? I'm 15 and I'm not sure how it really works but I can really see myself going into a career like this. Can I start at 16 or 17 too? what do I have to do? Start at flight school?
Yea, so basically I've done the Private, Instrument, Commercial, FIA, FOI, and CFII written tests. Yes, I'm only a PPL holder, and 17, but I'm planning on getting it all done within less than a year from now. Don't take all those written tests if you dont plan on a fast pace! They only last two years. The reason I took them all back to back is because it's just easier for your brain. Also that way and now I can now just kinda sit back and enjoy my textbooks in peace.
If you're wondering what I used: ASA's test prep books. They're the best, and aimed at only getting you past the test (they work like a dream)
If you're wondering about my scores: PPL = 93; Instrument = 88; Commercial = 92; FOI = 87; FIA = 79, CFII = 88.
Mergg, I was planning on going to a university in upstate ny with a full ride hopefully (Syracuse university) and take flight school during school or vacation. would my plan be harder and more expensive or am I better off going to an aviation college?
It's gonna take you at least a year or two to get all ratings, so you probs can't just do it in a vacation. Also make sure you're 18 or older, otherwise you can't do any commercial stuff.
I’m considering becoming a pilot. Actually going to start at Leading Edge Aviation in Logan. I find it kind of serendipitous to type in piloting jobs on you tube and the first video I clicked on, you fly right into my home. Ima get my wings!
I needed this today, thanks!
That’s what I’m doing now , just got into flight program here in Boston. Excited! Thanks for the advice! I don’t really get the stigma young pilots have towards the airlines, i here it a lot. I think a lot of that comes from the younger crowd who has been flying with their dad since they were kids and have been flying since 16-17. It’s an entitled attitude of kids who expect the Pilot world to open wide up for them because their knowledge isn’t represented by their experience. That’s just not the way it works tho, insurance doesn’t care. The fact that airlines are taking second Career new pilots right now is something a guy like me is extremely grateful for.
I started flying when I was 16 I got all my ratings by 20 except for cfi. Paid for it all myself by working part-time jobs and then in the 90s flying was a little bit more cheaper than it is nowadays. Got a gig out of college flying corporate started flying Cessna 310 then after a few years up to King Air 90 s. I had no desire to work for the Airlines and fly school buses. I have friends that flew Regional crj's and dash 8's for years and the pay was absolutely horrible and on call 24/7 365 days a year. If I could do it all over again I would still get my ratings and then from college go right into the military and fly in the military I would have had the best of both worlds serving my country like most of my family members have and I get to fly. There is an old saying about Pilots you fly for the love of flying not for the paychecks. I eventually went back to school got my master's degree in business and I work in the healthcare industry I make a good living. I still fly but just for pleasure and fun.
I snatch any flight time I can get,even looking at aircraft or being around a airport gives me joy. I hate the fact that neither small fields wont hire.Just be grateful yall especially the ones who have had there parents get in on their lessons, always have been jealous of you guys but be safe. 73'
Find a flight school that has a direct recruit program. The school I went to was associated with Piedmont and they looked at us before the "outside" applicants. Pretty sweet deal.
Awesome advice. I'm currently a CFI at Oklahoma State University. Planning to instruct through summer than move on to Boutique or the like. After that the regionals.
My son is 16 now...solo'd on his 16th birthday ... we have many contacts / friends flying corporate for major oil and gas companies here in Tulsa ... and he has his eyes on a regional for the same reasons you mention here. His BIG questions is ... how does he get the hours to get a look from the regional airlines or for that matter the corporate folks? I agree 1000% on the relationships and contacts ... as a matter of fact his flight instructor is Captain in a Challenger 300 ... and he's a personal friend ... so we are just listening to anyone / everyone who might have advise that makes sense.
I’m at UND, but I cant decide if I want to go commerical or military. Once you go commerical you cant really turn back. There are alot of special experiences in the military that you can have
Awesome video. Right now I'm at ATP working on my com multi, can't wait to fly everyday for the rest of my career!
So cool I can’t get over it. I was going for my license in 2014 but deemed it not something I could do based on market conditions at that time. Cost vs initial pay. Every person I talked too said I would only make 15 dollars per hour right after training. Also stated the market was saturated with pilots. Seems my decision to obtain my CDL was not the best option. I wonder if it’s too late for me? I would settle for anything second or third tier by comparison to the airlines. I’m 46 in March.
Love the Channel man. So cool.
I hate long flights. Where would you go if you want short flights only (under 1 hour), lots of visual approaches, no night flights and a schedule (no 24/7 standby) ? (I used to fly the A320 series at a major airline and it was really boring, 99% ILS approaches, lots of night flights)
WMU flies out of KAZO (kilo alpha zulu oscar), and they have a few flight simulators for training. They have what is called,"Aviation outlook day," which is basicly where pilots and airforce recruiters (currently recruiting for the F-35) come to KAZO in a hangar, and they talk to the students. Sometimes they have a working boeing 727 that usually flies into KAZO, and students get to check it out (like the cockpit, etc...). Keep in mind that most of these people who are either aircraft maintenance people, and/or pilots who used to go to WMU. WMU, they're one of the top 3 aviation colleges in the U.S. They're equipped with the latest technology available to them. I know for a fact that their training aircraft is the cirrus Sr 20 and/or the cirrus Sr 22. What college did you go to for aviation pilot vlogs?
Really needed hear another pilots opinion on this. The baby boomers are all retiring now and that makes becoming an atp all the more desirable. I already got my PPL at 17 a few months back and hope to get my ratings and other liscenses as soon as possible. The regionals and good connections are the way to go.
Thanks for another solid video. For someone just getting into aviation like myself, good advice is gold. Oh, and hello from Saint George!
Heyyyy SDL my home airport!! That's good advice , I do want to go corporate and have been trying to figure out how to avoid regionals but your points are something to think about. Thank you!
In Response:: - I agree that the best way to learn is to teach. Either way, it’s from the right seat. PIC is important although Turbine time is King. I was more directing the pilots that are looking for the “Fast Track” to the airlines. I fly a Phenom 300, AeroStar 700 and Helicopter, all part 91. I missed the airline route because when I was targeting the ATP as a pipsqueak, my timing was horrible. The late 1970’s had a mass pilot exodus from the military to the airlines and cargo. We are now including these pilots from the 1970’s retirements into the pilot explosion into the present loop of demand. In closing, I’m not taking anything away from flight instructors... anything above the ground is better than being on or in it...
Great advice for sure! (to be 21 again)...Lol
I'm 41 now and always been in corporate aviation as a pilot all part 91.
Making North of $160k a year flying 4 Citations-500-560XL-650 & 750.
The past 13 years as a full time contractor with no benefits what so ever.. I keep telling all the new copilots to go 121! SHOOT even I want to go sometimes.. No 4 year degree and the massive pay cut.....Great videos Cory!
Jose manuel Lopez how did you not have to get a degree?
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience and opinion! 👍
Great job sir....
finishing my commercial single/multi engine now..ill be ready in less than month with a little over 300 hrs. Thank u for doing this video
I got out of college in 03. Similar economic situation. I towed banners in SoCal, played Bush pilot in western Alaska and drove helos in the military. Right now is one of the best hiring eras I’ve ever seen. You can go anywhere really.
joses box What was the lifestyle of being a bush pilot in Alaska like?
Josh Abbey Not too bad actually. Usually it’s s 2 on 2 off schedule depending on where you work. You generally ship your own food because it’s prohibitively expensive to buy it out in the Bush. The pay, depending on who you work for is actually not too bad.
Awesome, it's definitely a career that I'd strongly consider. Being an airline pilot looks good but being a bush pilot is the DREAM. Would love working out in Alaska. What type of pilots license is required?
Regionals rock. Come join the party! 🤙🏼
who are you with?
What he really means is regionals suck...
I’m 18. (Senior in high school) and I’m majoring in aviation at either Kent State or Delaware State University starting this August. Im making my decision after I visit Kent next week. As of right now I think I’m going the regional->major airline route. I still have a couple years to think it completely through though. I know the airline route won’t be easy especially the first couple years but I think once my seniority is up there the quality of life will be amazing both at the regional and mainline level. Either way, just looking forward to flying for a living. It’s always been my dream.
Update?
@@streetfutsalking4814 It’s my 3rd year here at Kent State! I’m 1/3 done with my Commercial, working on my Instrument at the moment. Hoping to start applying for ANG/Reserve pilot slots next year as a senior! If I don’t have any luck there, the “worst” case scenario will be to go straight into the regionals. I love the decision I made and I’m glad you asked for the update, LOL!
@@JonnyJets yea I’d love to talk about it my insta is @aviator_ethan
My cousin is also 3rd year at kent and I have a friend going there as well. In my situation I’m majoring in aviation management there as a fallback if I lose my medical but I’m heading to ATP for flying.
@@streetfutsalking4814 Nice! I followed you bro
Great video Cory. I have a friend who got fed up with corporate I think it was a management problem he then took a year off and got a 20k signing bonus with Westjet and is flying an ERJ
170 or 175 and is based in LA where his home is. Safe travels.
Is there a tiller incorporated into the yoke? I was wondering as it looked like you had authority to steer using the yoke while taxing!
Capt. David Tatum, American Airlines,Director of Pilot Recruitment. American has thousands of current and competitive applications on hand. With our regional flow providing approximately 50% of all our new hire positions, we have considerably more great candidates than we have positions to fill. Despite the fact many of our applicants are also applying at other mainline carriers, our competitive pool has remained very consistent in size if not growing slightly. We are certainly in good shape for the foreseeable future when it comes to providing our cockpits with the best aviators possible.
And that 50% is spread among 3 WO carriers. Perhaps it is time to be at another major's WO. Or be at a regional that treats its pilots better than many of the WOs. I think that the regionals are making good use of all this "pilot shortage crisis" hype to keep the pipeline pretty full for the majors. Time will tell once the forced retirements really ramp up, but right now it sure looks like the majors will be just fine.
Hey man nice video. On one of your future videos can you talk about the differences between corporate, regional, major, etc? How are the actual job responsibilities different, what does a day in the life of or week in the life of look like, etc.
Hey! I want to get based out of Detroit. Metro area is great, most of city is decent too, just like any city however, it has its rough spots. Same with Chicago, Tampa, NYC, LA, Denver, whatever
Have you thought about coming to Utah State and giving a talk on corporate aviation?
College aviation student here! I'm in my first year 2 flights away from getting my private license. I will be in school for the next 4 years and then go into the regional airlines
Just bought a Cessna 172 and began my training. My goal: First Officer with NetJets or FlexJets in less than 2 years. Ambitious - but I'm all in. Thank you for the great videos.
What an awesome way to do the training. Good luck! Definitely ambitious but wouldn’t say crazy.
How's it going Robin?
I am a student at Oklahoma State University working on a Professional Pilot major to get a restricted ATP (only requires 1000 hours, not 1500). I really love corporate aviation, and hope that one day I can fly Citations and other luxurious jets. But the amount of money that regions are shelling out for pilots is just crazy. As someone who is paying for all of their school through loans that I’m going to have to pay back, it’s too good to pass up. Maybe after building up some 121 time and paying off the loans I can start working in the corporate side of aviation.
P.S.
Absolutely love the videos. Would love to see some more videos about if you’d ever consider going to the airlines, or more advice for young pilots like me!
Random fact: your sarcasm is legendary and you inspire me to move forward in my flying career lol 🤘🏼😎
Man I am out here in the oil fields driving a crappy crude oil truck 14 hours a day 6 days a week in this heat sweating all day, no a/c. I stopped flying in 2009 obtained my commercial single, instrument. Have a BS in Aviation Admin. It is so tempting to fly again, these student pilots have it made. Really thinking on coming back because trucking is getting old. Almost no time off or at home to have a life. Make good $$ so would be a pay cut for a few years.
Lol, since I’m from east coast thought when you said Logan it was Boston 🙄, now in Phoenix though! What would be your suggestion if you wanted to live in Denver for a regional? United?
I feel a bit behind as I'm about to turn 21 and will only be starting my commercial license at that time, but I'm excited for the future.
21 and feeling behind?! I am 46 and working on my CPL/IFR. You are not behind at all, my friend.
Corporate is hit and (mostly) miss.
If you can find a nice corporate dept with a good schedule, reserve or coverage pilots, and good pay in an affordable town.. you’ve probably found the best job in aviation. Rarely is this ever the case. Depts are usually small and cheap and your days off are the days the boss decides not to fly or when the plane is in maintenance. You hang around the airport for hours only to not fly, and hang around for hours or days at your destination which might not be that great. Then there are the fractionals where they make it on aircraft utilization like the airlines.. without any of the perks or reserve crew airlines have. Dead last is charter... feast or famine... and you’d better be ready to drop everything when it’s time to make hay and don’t burn any bridges just in case you might have to go back to your old job.
Hi Cory, thanks for the video mate! Quick question. Would you give that advice to someone who just turned 40 without a university degree?
I would like too know the same thing?
Where are you from? If you’re from the UK, you don’t need to degree to get into a major airline. Probably likewise if you’re Aussie or Kiwi
My goal is to head to Lift Academy right after high school. Do my training there, and go right to Republic airlines. Fly with them for however long, and if I can move to american airlines.
why LIFT?
Why do you turn the yoke in the direction of turn when you're taxiing? Does it have to do with the balance of a large plane? I know that is not standard procedure for single engines.
American pilots are so lucky, I’m from EASA land and jobs are still hard to come by for me (even instructing). I qualified in 2013, 350TT, I’m in my early 30s,only been for 3 interviews (I’m lucky to get a response from a job application) so maybe it’s just me but there’s no shortage of pilots in Europe IMO
Thanks for the insight! Great video as usual!
Hey there, i’m 16 years old at the moment and my dream is to become a pilot. I’m from Holland (aka the Netherlands) and i would love to fly for KLM one day.
I would like to be an airline pilot because of all the people you interact with, you get to know so much people and thats what makes an airline pilot the best for me.
Ofcourse i would take any chance of becoming a pilot if i didnt have a choice, but times are good at the moment so hopefully i got a choice.
I’m going to sign up for my study as a pilot next year, to hopefully be accepted and become a pilot.
Sophomore here at UND, Working on instrument rating with about 150 hours. Working till I get my 1000 HR restricted ATP and going wherever the industry takes me
Thank you,Capt.
👍 can't wait to do my training and become a pilot ☝️
Great content! It’s great seeing pilots posting videos. I just started a channel myself that covers transitioning into the airlines. Keep up the good work!
If you have all of the ratings required by the regional airlines you are on the fast track for advancement in the field of aviation! It's tough in the beginning with the starting salaries and inconveniences that come with the job but well worth the time. Look at it as an entry level position into the field of aviation! You start in the minor league and move up to the major league! Good Luck to all aspiring pilots!
What about the older pilot starting out from a mid-life career change? When are you too old? Is there ageism in the airlines?
Interesting viewing! ...🌞...⛅...✈...
I don't know much about 'being a pilot', but you have made it worthwhile watching! 📺👍....thankyou
My plan is to go into the Army after i get my AA and while in get my ba in history through ASU and after i get out go to North Dakota University to get my MA in history and go to flight school with the GI bill
Hey Corey! I started my flight training just 3 weeks ago out of the 2nd busiest aerodrome by aircraft traffic in Australia, and was wondering what that small artificial horizon in the middle is for and how come it flashes in the video? Does it flash in real time too or is it a camera thing? keep up the quality content!!
Personally I think I'd be happier with the corporate route. It's more my style, and I'm sure my view will change as I get older, but currently I would like the idea of getting a call and being at the airport 2 hours later. I'm a pretty reserved guy and I don't make a lot of plans and I enjoy sitting at home relaxing, so I wouldn't have many plans get cancelled from that.
However, the airline pay (in the long run) is just too good to pass up. Corporate pay tops out around 150k, whereas airline pay tops out around 300k. I get the notion of "chase the dream, not the money" but whether I get into corporate or airline I will still be living the dream as a pilot. So it's basically why choose flying job A that is a little more fun but pays let over flying job B that is a little less fun but pays more?
I'm 21 and idk what I should do I've been looking at a pilot career but I don't know it's a 80k tuition and I have read that start pay is 25 30 k
Corey(hope I spelled that correctly), I plan to go to flight school in a few years when I have saved up enough for it. Regionals are definitely hiring big time and I understand you can go right seat after only two years with some flight schools. That seems odd to me. Can one even gain enough airtime to be a first officer after only flight school? Also, I am now nearly 39 years old. Do you think that is too late to go for a career as a commercial pilot? I have a career already that earns decent money but I hate it. I firmly believe that if you love what you do, you never really work. Flying would do that for me.
It takes a certain type of person to be a pilot.Nerves of steel, concentration ,memory, spatial awareness and a host of other attributes to accomplish becoming a pilot.Just think how many people start and drop out, if everyone that started taking flying lessons finished you would have an excess of pilots, and now many younger people can't afford the high cost of flight school along with the cost of college which is required for you to even be considered for almost any professional pilot job! I'd still give it a go if I felt like I could get hired at my age,I'm one of those guys that started young joined the Air Force after HS was going to flight school but life got difficult after the Air Force money was tight and work took many hours of my time.Of course I can look back now and realize there are things I could have done differently to make it happen, but that's life.
You’re right! That’s a great point about how many don’t finish or leave the profession. It’s not talked about a lot.
Looks like you guys go to Signature at SDL? They keep us bugsmashers on Alpha ...
Hope to see a new video soon. Love your vlog series.
I'm retired military (no aviation background). I'm planning to start a different career. What's the best option for a man like myself? I'm 37 years old. Thanks for the advice! Love your video.
Victor Velasco if ya have your degree and don’t mind a large bill for flight training then one option is ALL ATP (I don’t work for them either) as it’s one stop shopping and you’ll teach for them after you’re done earning your ratings.
Try and use your GI Bill for flight training
My dream is to become a pilot.am not watching any vedios of not wanting to become a pilot. Thanks for that encouragement bro
You can do it!
I been done with school for 4 years (associates only) and have my commercial multi with 270 hours. Haven’t been able to find anything and CFI isn’t for me but a couple months ago I found out about a sky diving club that will take you on but they don’t pay you. Thoughts?
Pilot Vlogs I just want to fly whether its corporate or airline. Corporate seems like it would be fun because I have an interest in smaller planes but on the other hand I currently work with Southwest doing ramp work and wonder if I want to try getting into Southwest inflight.
I would love to become a commercial airline pilot as it is my dream but there's none sponsored program which allow us to fund the first part of our training in Europe. I hope this will change in the comming few years if the pilot shortage is about to get bigger and bigger. Else I will just get my degree in University and see afterwards. Maybe I should emigrate towards the USA...
What altitude did you start the landing checklist? It seemed pretty high but the GoPro could have something to do with that. Just curious, Cody! Love your channel man, best vids around!
Have you ever flown into Wilson Air Center at Charlotte Douglas international?
The Corporate field is always looking but they want you to have a ATP rating and in type of the Jet they have
Air Force Academy, free education and it's the best. Love the video, lots of great info :)
TeenAviator that’s what I was thinking
would personally have loved going to the air force academy but you better have real good grades. Even then you aren't guaranteed to get in. Graduated high school in 2017 and right now I'm at ATP working on my com multi, hopefully will hit the 1,500 hour mark as I'm turning 21
ATP program is great but you're going to NEED a four year college degree still
Not for regionals, and the only major you need it for is delta. Still gonna get a 2 year degree before i turn 21 and im gonna try and get my bachelors in the regionals that way ill have the degree and seniority (hopefully)
Its also a 10 year in total commitment (4 years in school and 6 active duty, more if you become a pilot)
@ 1:47 That is the best advice to start out being a commercial Pilot.
Im a 17 year old junior in high school with 30 hours doing cross countries and preparing for my private pilot check ride, many people including most of my instructors have told me that air force ROTC would be the cheapest and best way to go. How do you feel about the Air Force if thats the way I wanted to make it to mainline commercial flying? If any other experienced pilots see this feel free to respond as well, I need all the info I can get!
The Air Force route is a great route IF you want to be part of the Air Force and serve your country but if your ultimate goal is to fly for the airlines it’s probably not the best idea. If you are determined and passionate enough you will do it plus it would be a waste of however many years you need to serve before you can leave. Trust me, you will be able to do it just follow your heart.
If going into the military and everything that entails sounds like a good idea to you, regardless of your goals, then you should definitely go that route. Keep in mind that setting your sights on the USAF as a path may not produce the results you want as quickly as another. Though going in through ROTC might be quicker than I was offered going through basic. Point is, I went into the USAF because I wanted to fly and I learned quickly that everyone that wants it doesn't get it. It's hard enough to get into the USAF as it is. No matter what you do, keep your sight on flying, whether it be on the side or not. I didn't do that young enough.
Pilot Vlogs Thanks for getting back to me so quickly! I live near Kent state so that’s another option I’ve been looking at as far as flight schools.
Marc Watson thanks for the quick response and the advice I really appreciate it!
Christopher Sorensen Thanks for the advice, that has been my main concern that it will be a while since I’m able to start flying again if I even get there after ROTC.
Would you say getting a college education, a minimum of a bachelors degree, is essential to making it in the airline and aviation industry? Now many of the regionals are offering flow throughs to some majors. Is it too big of a gamble given that if you are laid off with one airline you may be in limbo trying to get in with another? Thanks and keep up the great videos!
I’m starting my training now at age 16. What advice do you have for college and that sort of stuff? I’m getting my PPL before I graduate high school and I’m thinking I’ll get my commercial and ATP during college and also my bachelors. I live near KLUK and KCVG so there’s great opportunity all around (corporate, regional, freight, etc). I’m really not sure what i want to do because instead of regional I could do Ameriflight’s gateway program to UPS (they fly out of CVG) etc. any advice will help, my first lesson is in a week!!
Amazing vlog! Keep up the beautiful time lapses
How many checkrides do you think will make it hard for you to get hired by a regional airline? Do you personally have any checkride failures? I failed my commercial multi recently and its very hard to get it off my mind.
I would like some advice for someone who has their commercial rating who hasn't flown on a regular basis for almost 7 years and would love to get back into the left seat.
You have your instrument too? Go get current. Knock the rust off. Then go to one of those 2-3 week-long programs to get your ME add-on. They typically run $3k-$5k.Then get your CFI and start building time. Some places you can get a kick-back to help with the CFI/CFII/MEI costs of you work for them as a CFI.
I just got a corporate job flying and have about 20 hours turbine. I also tow banners where I am getting 90% of my time right now. I am at 740 hours total, but now I cant figure out if majors would hire me if I get my turbine time with my corporate job.. It would save me about a years time if I can build my turbine here, skip the regional and jump straight to majors, but major airline recruiters wont talk to me to tell me yes or no... all they specify is turbine time on their websites.. so Id imagine I could.. What do you think? My end goal is Majors.... I need to pay off my student loans somehow haha. Thanks for your time and input!