Expert: David A. NewMyer - 11/13/2008

Question
QUESTION: Dear David NewMyer,

Hi, let me start out by saying that I'm a 23 year old recent college grad with a bachelors degree
(not related to aviation). Ever since I was a kid I've dreamed of becoming a pilot and throughout
my college years my interests in aviation has grown. Due to economic and other issues my
current field of study hasn't been doing so well (although it could grown in the near future), so
I've decide to take advantage of the situation and get into aviation.

Recently I've been debating going back to school to learn aviation (aside with flight training I've
had interests in aviation management and air traffic control), or to join the military. I'm not really
sure which way to go, I know both require a lot of work (which I'm more then willing to do), and
that the military is very competitive to get flight slots, especially in the U.S. Air Force.

Which route would be more recommendable to do. Should I go the extra mile in the military
although flight training isn't guaranteed, or go back to school which can be expensive? Do
airlines and other aviation companies choose military trained pilots over civilians? I know if I join
the military there's a chance of going to war, but being able to fly a F-16, or F-35 maybe a once
in a lifetime chance (if I even qualify, that's a big IF). On the other hand as a civilian pilot you
don't have the pressures of military life.

I know I've said a lot, but any thoughts, or advice I would greatly appreciate.  

Thanks.

Andrew

ANSWER: Hi, Andrew:

Thanks for your quesion (s).... I will try to assist.

One of the largest factors to consider when choosing between a military and a civilian path is lifestyle.  The military lifestyle is one where much is provided for you (excellent training, a high level of technology, etc) but, on the other hand, they also provide some constraints in terms of your schedule, your discipline and where you live/work (not always your choice).  

I think you have, otherwise, laid out some of the choices that you face in good fashion.....the civil world will not provide the chance to fly the F-16 or the F-35.  But, again, you may join the military and not get to that level either, and still be committed to a minimum amount of time with the military.  The civilian path provides you some options depending on where you go to school and what you choose for yourself in terms of training options and paths to the industry.  But, as you point out, the civilian path can be expensive.

One thing is for sure:  This is an excellent time to be in school, whether it is in the military or in the civilian world.  I am thinking that this particular downturn will take three to five years to correct itself, maybe less.  Once it is over, there will be another pilot shortage and pilot hiring on the civil side will be large.  You will want to be ready to take advantage of that.  On the other hand, the military will insulate you from the civil ups and downs as long as you are in the military.  And, as you imply, placement from military pilot ranks (for the most part) are very good into the civilian world.  I would not say that military pilot always trumps civilian pilot training, but, most military pilots also come with a lot of experience and that helps in the placement.

Best wishes to you in your choice.  It is a tough one, for sure.

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear David NewMyer,

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my question, I really appreciate the advice you
gave.

I was just wondering also, if I decided to get flight training as a civilian. Which do you think has
a better career path, airplane pilots, or helicopter pilots? I would love to learn both, but if I could
only choose one for now which would you suggest.

Is it true that adding a helicopter ranking can be easier and/or cost efficient once you have a
airplane license?

I've heard that helicopter pilots are more in demand right now, don't know if it's true.

On the other hand although none of the major airline companies aren't hiring any pilots right
now do you think that smaller airline companies can make a come back. Since they can offer
rides to local areas without the economic restraints of maintaining larger aircraft.

Thanks again for your help.

Andrew

Answer
Andrew:

As far as civilian aircraft flight training vs. civilian helicopter flight training, there is no doubt that aircraft flight training will bring you more opportunities.  There are well over 180,000 fixed wing aircraft in the USA to fly whereas in helicopters, there are only about 10,000 helicopters to fly in the USA....so, the opportunities are greater in the fixed wing area.  Also, helicopters have specialized applications that apply well to aerial applications (such as agriculture or fire fighting), law enforcement, oil and gas exploration and short distance air travel.  Fixed wing aircraft do a lot more missions.  Yes, as a fixed wing pilot, you can get a "helicopter add on" for not a lot more money......  Yes, helicopter pilots are in some demand right now, but, a lot of that demand is taken up by ex-military helicopter pilots who get out of the military with a lot of experience and go right into civilian jobs.

As far as major airlines and regional airlines and who is hiring, yes, there are still a few smaller airlines that are hiring a bit.  But, with the consolodation that is going on (Delta is merging with Northwest and others may follow), smaller airlines may also have a shake up.  I still believe that smaller airlines will do a lot of hiring, but, probably not until early in 2010.  The coming year (2009) will be a great year to be in school!  By 2010 and 2011, there will be some hiring going on to fill in the demand created by years of holding back on expansion while the economy straigtens itself out.....

Good luck,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University
www.aviation.siu.edu