Expert: D. Norkus - 3/25/2007

Question
Hello:
    I am interested in a career as an airline pilot.  So far i have my private pilot's license from a local FBO.  After shopping around for different flight schools, i am thinking about choosing ATP.  I had a brief conversation with someone from ATP and was told that they charge a fixed price for the whole program, which is around $44,000.  I was told that they don't charge by the hour flown.  My concern is what happens with the students who might require additional flying time or those who are slow learners.  Are they expelled from the program?  The ATP website says that "both the student or the school has the right to terminate flying lessons for any reason". I must admit, it did take me quiet a bit longer (more then twice the minimum FAA hours) to get my private pilot's license at the local FBO.  It really wasn't a problem because i paid by the hour and since i was working on weekdays and flying on weekends, i could afford it.  I just don't want to be in a situation, where i start flying full time with ATP and end up getting expelled from their program because i'm not learning fast enough.  I am more concerned about having a hard time obtaining my instrument rating.  I heard the commercial/multi is not that hard.  So, what does happen to students at schools like ATP who charge a fixed rate if the student needs more flying hours to learn?  Do you think i should get some instrument training practice at a local FBO on the weekends before i quit my job and start full time at ATP?  

Sincerely

Alex

Answer
Alex

Having not attended ATP, I cannot say with any authority what their policy is or fees are in regards to students who need extra time. I can say that your situation is very normal and that very, very few pilots actually finish their PPL in the FAA minimum required hours as they stretch out their training due to weather, work or other commitments. (I have read close to 80 hours is the national average.) I wouldn't let the fact that you took extra time on your PPL worry you. Your experience is actually the norm. Plus, I really cannot imagine anyone getting "expelled" from their program when they really want to be there as the school is getting revenue.

If you are truly interested in the ATP program, I suggest registering on the ATP website message forum and ask their "career mentors" about their experiences. http://www.atpflightschool.com

I can say that I fly with two pilots who did this program. Both were hired 14 months after starting it and both are very happy with their ATP experience. They also participate as mentors on the ATP message boards. Each paid about $40K (a few years ago) for the career track program, which is a small price compared to other schools that advertise the same thing. If it works as well for you as it did for them, I think you will be quite happy with the school.

Just know that going into it is what we airline pilots call "drinking from the fire house".  It's very intense and that is all you will be focused on for many weeks or even months.

Check out these other links for a bit more background info on the career:

http://www.jetcareers.com
http://www.geocities.com/av8trxx99/FAQ.html
(my page)

Good Luck!
Dottie