Expert: D. Norkus - 5/5/2008

Question
Hi,
I am trying to decide which flight school to pick for my pilot training,  I am
going for the whole package: Private, instrument, and commercial.  So far I
am stuck between Jet University, Delta flight academy, and ATP.  Could you
please tell me which one is a better school or are they all good equally? Also,
at the time, are there regional airlines out there that hire pilots that have no
flight time instructing; in other words they go to flight school and receive
their flight hours from the training but do not gain more hours by instructing
others.  
Thanks  

Answer
Sameet

I have no personal experience with any flight schools. Back when I was flight training, I went via a flying club as it was more affordable and did not attend a big airline academy affiliated school. I'd suggest the "best" one for you would be the school that can get you finished for the least cost as you will not be making much money in this career to start. The only thing I can say about these schools is what I know of their reputation and what graduate pilots I have flown with say. I know several pilots who went to ATP and all were happy with their results. Several are mentors on their "Career Coach" message boards, so you can ask their alumni yourself what they have to say- good or bad at http://www.beanairlinepilot.com/forums/

I have heard mixed reviews about DCA. Never flown with any graduates. Read reviews about them at:

http://www.jetcareers.com
http://forums.flightinfo.com

Jet University? Know nothing but have read some poor opinions on their program via my pilot message forums. Check the message forums above for info on this school as well.

Yes, the regionals will hire people without instructing. (I was hired in 2001 with 1200 flight hours and never an hour as a CFI.) Academy style bridge programs promise interviews and with some you don't have to instruct. You'd have to check with the school as each has a 'letter of agreement' with the airline and not all require the same thing to be hired.

Here are some more links to help you with your training and career choices:
http://www.airlinepilotcentral.com
http://www.cleared to dream.org

Good Luck!
Dootie