Expert: David Bidwell - 5/14/2008

Question
David Bidwell,
Becoming an airline pilot is something ive always wanted to do im currently a student at covina high school in california im a senior and not far away from graduating soon after that i will be attending college. Im desperatley seeking my career as a pilot. I have talked to my parents about the military but their strongly suggesting i took the civilian route. Im confused about how to get started and what is required of me to becoming an airline pilot. Could you please help me with any advice that you can give me to becoming a pilot i'll be very thanful.


Answer
Hi,
You stated that you are about to attend college.  Since all of the airlines require a college degree, I strongly suggest that you attend an aviation college.  By doing this, you will acquire a degree and all of the certifications and ratings required.  I personally attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (www.erau.edu) Erau is highly regarded in the industry and they offer a job placement service.  Many of the schools do. Below are a couple of links for you to investigate. I suggest that you contact these schools and see what they offer.
Good Luck, Dave Bidwell

http://www.avhome.com/fschools.html
http://www.collegeanduniversity.net/colleges-programs-states/Aviation-colleges.h...