Expert: David A. NewMyer - 10/11/2005

Question
Hello,
 My name is Adam Way. I am a newly certificated CFII (multi and Single)with around 260 hrs TT. I am looking for a few hints on what to do next. I have access to a single engine plane where I live to instruct in but I would like to explore a few more ways in which to build my total time. First off, I was wondering if my search for other avenues was in vain with only 260 hrs. I have wondered about pipeline flying, traffic reporting, banner towing, etc... but I have no idea where to look or who to contact. Any information you can share would be greatly appreciated.
 Sincerely,
   Adam S. Way  

Answer
Hi, Adam:

Nice to hear from you.  I will try to assist!

Yes, getting from the 200's to above 500 PIC flight time (which is a first key threshold for flying jobs as it is the level below which most aviation insurers will not insure an employer to employ someone for single engine charter work)....that is the question.  I think that you have it right in that pipeline flying, traffic reporting, and banner towing are all possible areas.  Add to those: Flying checks and financial instruments and also flying sightseeing flights (in areas like large cities or special places like the Grand Canyon, the coast of Maine, the coast of North Carolina or in Hawaii, as examples).  Two places to look for such employers are:

1.  The Aviation Yellow Pages....just put that term into Google and it will take you right to it; and,

2.  Google "banner towing" and the other terms and this will take you right to lists of employers and, perhaps, job listings in those categories of flying.

In addition, you might also think of searching by airport of choice.  That is, think about WHERE you want to work in the nation (geographically speaking), then, go to those airport websites and search for on-airport business contacts.

I hope that this helps.

I wish you the very best,

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