Training Contracts

[Steve428]

I just got a ground school date with a lower wrung regional which has the quickest upgrade time in the industry. It won't take too long for you to figure out which one I'm talking about. Okay, anyhow... I haven't signed the training contract yet, but will be expected to the first day of ground school. The contract is for 15 months. That doesn't bother me, as I could stick around for that long without any problem. The main issue I have, is that in the contract, it says that if you are "discharged" from training, they can still get the full training amount. Do airlines, such as this, make a habit out of going after pilots who wash out of their training programs, to get the contract amount??? If so, I may have to rethink some things. If it does end up in court, how successful are airlines at getting the pilot candidate to pay the contract amount? Thanks for your help!

[Denny of Oakland]

So, did you sign the contract? And what did they say about your warning letter?

[bluesideup]

During the 80's American Airlines made new hire pilots sign a contract requiring them to re-emburse the airline if the pilot terminated employment to go with another airline within, I think, 5 years. At that time American had a B scale and I believe some pilots did take the training and split after gaining some experience. I never heard of a pilot being pursued in court to enforce the contract.

As for washing out of the program that's your call. My solution to these problems in life has always been go for it and worry about everything else later. As a new co-opilot you're basically broke and probably qualify for food stamps. What assets are they going to sue you for?

Good luck to you in your new career. It's not what it used to be but it's still fun, at least until you need to make a real income.

[AcuWings]

I am sorry but if you don't like the contract, go with another one regional. There is not a single reason to make a "Great Mistake"

[Steve428]

Yeah, I did sign it. I was assured, by the HR lady, that they have never gone after anyone who washed out of training. She said they would only enforce the contract if I quit or got fired after a successful checkride. So, I was lured by the promise of quick PIC turbine time, just like almost every other poor sap that signs on. I can put up with it temporarily, if it will get me to where I want to go in life, so I don't think I'll have too much of a problem. I see it as an investment. Thanks for the advice!