Expert: D. Norkus - 4/16/2004

Question
Hi,

I am a women and interested in becoming a pilot. I live in New Jersey and see alot of flight schools out there. Is there a standard that can help me choose the right school? My goal is to become a liscensed professional pilot flying for commercial airlines. How long is the process (from private pilot to ATP?)
Thank you for your input.  

Answer
Naana

There isn't a standard to pick a school, really. They all must follow the same FAA guidelines no matter where you train. Some are a better value though. A few schools are very pricey and you get the same product as places that are less expensive. However, the most important thing is the instructor student relationship. Finding a CFI you 'click' with will be the most important thing in your training to help you learn well and progress. Having never flown in NJ, I can't comment on the schools there. You should ask around the airports in your area and talk to students about their flight schools to get an idea of the training options near where you live. You might also try www.studentpilot.com or www.beapilot.com for info on area schools. Also see if there are flying clubs in your area.

The time required to train and get enough hours to get hired by a regional should take you from 3-5 years depending on how fast you finish your ratings and your luck on finding a time building job afterwards. Please see my Piloting and Careers FAQ page for more information.

www.geocities.com/av8trxx99/FAQ.html

The links at the bottom will also be helpful for career and training information. Let me know if you have more questions after reading the site. It should anwser most of your basic questions.

In addition, you should contact your area chapter of the Ninety Nines- the Women Pilots Organization. The love student members and can help mentor you. Find your chapter at:

www.ninety-nines.org

Good Luck
Dottie