Expert: D. Norkus - 12/29/2006

Question
Im 21 with a PPL living in BC. In Feb. I'll be taking AME. Im just wondering what I should do after Ive finished my training as an AME. I'd like to become a bush pilot and also own my own airplane. Thats why Id like to learn mechanics, be alot cheaper to own an airplane while you can fix it yourself. Someone has told me that I will be unable to stay current as a Pilot and AME. Same person said this is the reason you will never meet someone that is both a helicopter pilot aswell as fixed wing. Is this true? I guess I have alot of questions, but my main question is this. After the 4 years or so its going to take me to become an AME, what should I pursue? is it best to become an instructor or?

Also, is there a special maneuver to get to the ground faster after the skydivers have vacated the aircraft?

Answer
Tyson,

First off, when you say you live in "BC", does that mean British Columbia?

Secondly, when you say you are taking "AME" what does that mean? I am familiar with that acronym as an "Aviation Medical Examiner" or doctor. After going to years of medical school, I find it hard it hard to believe that someone would  try and become a pilot (and possibly mechanic too). That is an awful lot of time and money spent on schooling for two careers that are each full time.

Please clarify.