Expert: David A. NewMyer - 6/1/2008

Question
David:

I have twin boys (age 16) both presently pursuing their private pilot's license.  They both insist that they want a flight career.  We are looking at the USAF Academy, Embry Riddle, FIT, Purdue and Ill. Urbana Aviation.  I have a couple of questions. First, it seems that the relative net cost at Embry Riddle and FIT (after school aid/grants) is relatively expensive but yet starting salaries for pilots is very low (say mid 20s)--relatively low. Is it so that starting salaries are really that low  Second, in view of the relative instability in the employment of pilots, does it make sense to major in (say) aeronautical engineering and minor in flight at a place like ERAU; i.e. would it still be possible to pursue a pilot career although only a minor is obtained?  The thinking on the latter issue would be that the USAF ROTC might not pay scholarship money for a flight major, but they would for an engineering major.  The question is whether the USAF would then allow the graduate to continue their flight training in the AF?

Anything else you could assist with regarding career issues, best placement results from schools and financial aid issues would also be appreciated.

thanks so much

Ed Manchur

Answer
Hi,

Yes, you are right, the starting salaries are relatively low on the civilian side of flight...but, if your sons go Air Force, they will avoid that by getting USAF pay to fly, which is better.  The draw for aviation flight these days is to fly for the larger carriers, especially FEDEX or UPS since their salaries top out close to $300,000 a year for a senior Captain.  Other airlines such as American, United, Southwest and AirTran, pay $200,000 a year for senior Captains and corporate flight departments (some of the big ones) pay close to that, too.

As far as engineering vs. flight, the key thing is whether your sons make it clear to the USAF that they want to fly.  The bottom line is that they will have to get through primary flight training in the USAF, which is not easy.  If they can get through aerodynamics, that is the tough book-oriented subject for most students.  The flying part you can either do or not do, depending on your love of flight and your adaptability.

I am fairly sure that the USAF ROTC will pay for any science or engineering or aviation major as long as they have approved the individual's application for ROTC.  But, you will have to check with the local ROTC unit on that one.

All the best,

David A. NewMyer