Expert: David A. NewMyer - 1/21/2009

Question
I recently got my single engine commercial pilots license and was planning on becoming a cfi but ran out of money. I have around 250 hours and all my training was done 141. I was wondering if you had any information on jobs for low time pilots to build time?

Answer
Hi, Michael:

One of the tough things that you will face is that many aviation employers that would consider hiring you will ask you for 500 hours of total flight time in order to meet minimum insurance requirements that are placed on them by their aviation insurers.  So, 250 hours of flight time is a bit low to go out searching for a job.  The types of jobs that you will need to look for will be:

Banner towing and aerial advertising

Sightseeing companies (Grand Canyon flying, for example)

Charter flying (flying for hire....this is especially where they will look for 500 hours or more)

Therefore, at your total flight time, the best thing I can think of is for you to go get a job of any kind, save up your funds, and go get a CFI (A) so that you can begin to deliver flight time and build your experience that way.  If it is possible, obtain your CFI(A) with a company that also has a charter operation (or some other form of commercial operation) so that you can possibly go from a CFI(A) student to a flight instructor to a charter job all under one roof.

I hope that this helps.  I wish you the very best in your search for employment.

David A. NewMyer