Expert: D. Norkus - 6/2/2006

Question
I am a 27 year old female and have been doing some research on becoming a Pilot. I have checked my options and am leaning toward Aviator school in Fort Pierce, FL, also known as Air Ben. They are very affordage, but don't know if this will limit my chance on getting hirded compared to an academy with a "big name". The bigger academy's seem costly and don't seem to garauntee the high price they start with. Any recomendations on what option I should pursue for training. In addition I am planning on completing my degree with an on line affiliated University that accredits my flight progrm. Does that seem like a smart move?

Is it true that being a female makes it easier to get hired on by the airlines?
Also, do you think age will be a factor, since I will be close to thirty by the time I apply to the regionals.
If you could provide any other sound advice you see fit, I would greatly appreciate any insight to the aviation field you could provide.
I thank you in advance for taking your time in reading my lengthly question and will look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,
Anna

Answer
Anna

"I have checked my options and am leaning toward Aviator school in Fort Pierce, FL, also known as Air Ben. They are very affordage, but don't know if this will limit my chance on getting hired compared to an academy with a "big name"."

Do you mean ARI Ben?

I personally no nothing about them but you can do a bit of research at these online message boards for pilots and find lots here-

http://www.jetcareers.com
http://forums.flightinfo.com

As far as "big name" goes, it's quality flight time that gets you the interview and then job, not where you trained- UNLESSS you are doing a special progam that is affiliated with a regional via such a school that takes their graduates.

"The bigger academy's seem costly and don't seem to garuantee the high price they start with."

True, they aren't cheap. Additionally, they only promise an interview- not a job. However, many do turn that into one. I know people who have done the ATP Career Track & Mesa PACE programs. Both did get jobs at reduced flight times, although the PACE program grad had a commercial license going in to the program. The ATP grads I know went in with a PPL, spent $37K and got hired at 600 hours.

"Any recomendations on what option I should pursue for training."

Check into any and all programs and see what seems to suit you. Most imporatnly, talk to their current students if you can- not the PR people from the office. Those message boards will have hundreds of valuable posts with lots of info to help you make an informed decision as well.

Personally, I went to a local flying club for all my training, so I can only go on my friends experiences about flight schools & academies. The one thing I have heard is stay away from American Flyers though- they ripped off a girl I know for an $18K PPL!

"In addition I am planning on completing my degree with an on line affiliated University that accredits my flight progrm. Does that seem like a smart move?"

No matter where you get it or in what subject- you simple need one.

"Is it true that being a female makes it easier to get hired on by the airlines?"

Well, sort of. As long as you are a QUALIFIED female. We have so many ladies in our crew room now and although many weren't over qualified, they all slightly exceeded the minimums to apply.

"Also, do you think age will be a factor, since I will be close to thirty by the time I apply to the regionals."

No. There are new hires these days well into their 40s.

"If you could provide any other sound advice you see fit, I would greatly appreciate any insight to the aviation field you could provide."

Check out my site and let me know if you have any more questions-
http://www.geocities.com/av8trxx99/FAQ.html

Dottie