brand new student pilot

[desert_fox]

Greetings all! I am a brand new student pilot. I have about 8 hours logged as of last friday, May 18th 2007. Believe it or not, I actually soloed that day! It was the most unbelievable moment ever. To top it off, I have one of aviation's legends as a flight instructor, Dick Rutan. I was on cloud 9 the entire day. Shortly after landing solo, getting my shirt tail cut, Dick and I went into the restraunt at Mojave Airport (KMHV) and he introduced me to other longtime pilot friends of his. All welcomed me enthusiastically into the fraternity of pilots and fellow aviators.

Aviation has always been something I have loved, wanted to do, and I would be thrilled to fly for a living. I wanted to hear from some of you veterans and new pilots alike as to ATP life, or, just simply a cargo hauler, CFII, etc. What's it like, truely how competetive is the market? I hear conflicting reports all the time that pilots are loosing jobs or the demand is ever increasing. I have often considered going to a aeronautical school, but the thought of walking away with well over 2 yrs. wages as a beginning co-pilot or CFI just frightens me. I always have believed in following my dreams, so far I am doing it. I am at least 1/4 of the way to getting my Private ticket.

Anyway, I really am green behind the ears. I know there is just so much to aviation other than flying for a major airline. I am curious to see if there are any other great resources to be recommended that I could look at.

Thanks all!!!

[ElaineP8]

You must be very talented! I can't imagine being ready to solo at 8 hours. I've logged 4 hours and still have to think about every darn thing I do. Not much is automatic yet... except the pre-flight. For some reason, I can get around the airplane quickly and not miss anything without needing to refer to the list... except that I do refer to the list because my CFI wants me to stay in the habit.

I'm afraid even if I had a legend CFI I'd still need more practice before getting the "muscle memory" I'd need to feel ready to solo. But I'm hanging in there!

I'm a Navy brat and my dad was a brass-gonad test pilot. If you love it, you should pursue it. If you're good at something and love it, the money will follow.

Congratulations again!

-elaine

[JMsoundscape]

i remember my solo at a little over 7 hours, i will never forget that thrill keep it up BUT never get cocky be safe and be around for a while!! but good luck in your training and to the other poster as well (elaine) keep it up
clear skys to you

[terry26767]

As an ATP Pilot with 28 years flying experience I would like to congratulate you on your solo! You will never forget that event. My advice to an eager-to-be pilot is: "Hang around the airport". By hanging around the FBO office, you can gain valuable information from more experienced pilots. From newbys to seasoned veterans. I cannot give you advice on an airline career, but I can tell you that (in my opinion), Corporate flying is as good as it gets. I'm not trying to knock Airline guys, freight haulers, or anyone else. I just don't think I would like an airline job, but might like to try hauling freight. Freight is on schedule, doesn't get airsick, and just shuts its mouth and goes along for the ride. Airline jobs are great jobs also, but I prefer corporate flying for reasons to follow. I normally get to fly some of the most modern equipment in the world. Get to see many new places every week. Often get to spend time at great locations while my employers are in meetings, etc I am out in a car checking out the area and countryside while they are paying for. I get to stay in the top of the line hotels that someone else is paying for. I personally know nearly all of my passengers. I get to meet very interesting people. Quite often I get to take my family with me. I make a very good salary, am never pressured to do anything I don't feel comfortable with, etc., etc. What more could you ask for.
Also by hanging out around the airport, you get to meet some great pilots that are normally more than happy to answer questions for you. You also get to hear other pilots tell of their experiences which can help you in your career making process. Many pilots are happy to help eager young pilots. I know all the pilots at my airport go out of their way to help the less experienced. Also, this is a good way to gain valuable experience in deciding which type of flying you want to do. My Company quite often allows me to take less experienced pilots along on day trips to encourage them to continue their education and see what corporate flying is all about. It is also good Public Relations. So "hang out at the airport." I have 2 bits of wisdom I would like to pass on to you. 1. Listen to your flight instructor and more qualified pilots instead of trying to impress these people with nonstop telling them how good you are, etc. This turns people off and they won't be as anxious to try to help you. 2. A professional pilot does not strut an ego. Remember to treat all people as your equal. They are! They just do a different job. When you think you are better than everyone else, Quit your job and get out of flying. We have too many cocky ego's giving pilots a bad name. Remember the flight crews of tomorrow will be a pilot and a monkey.
Good luck, if I can ever help you, please don't hesitate to let me know.

[shorty]

Terry, I love your description of freight--"it doesn't get airsick..keeps it mouth shut..."

I've been asked, "what's the scariest moment you ever had flying"
My response: "my first paycheck."

Like it or lump it, there is "time-building" involved, and these jobs don't always pay that great. Plenty of people out there who are willing to work for very little to fly--part time or full time.

If you are not willing to give up your current career--the part-time option may take a little longer, but may be a better option until you can find something suitable.

On the flip side, I have an upper office with a view, for the most part I'm my own boss in the cockpit (unless flying with a PIC in two pilot ops), and it sure beats a cublical.

I wouldn't trade my career for any other. We spend a very large chunk of our lives in our jobs. It is a part of how we define ourselves. Whether we like it or not, it is bound to come home with us, as well. You need to enjoy what you do. Of course, that it is bound to come home with us also means it is bound to affect family life. Many pilots (not all, of course) consider that a huge drawback--strain on family. They may travel frequently, move frequently, and work odd hours. Holidays, weekends, and evenings are not uncommon, and often expected.

Fractionals are growing--creating a pilot demand. The airline industry often changes with the economy. We are also in the middle of a generation gap of population. Pilots retiring, but the next generation is not yet ready to fill that gap. This is probably why you hear these conflicting reports.

There is a wide array of types of aviation jobs out there. I wish I would have known more about them before college. There again, the part time option as well as Terry's advice about hanging out at the airport and talking with people would be very helpful. Don't be shy about calling companies for "information interviews." Most people are happy to talk about their jobs and their business. Remember to ask them what they consider the drawbacks to be as well as the perks. Check out job listings on the internet, many are free, or inexpensive. Even if you are not yet ready to pursue a job, it will give you an idea of what all is out there, and what the qualifications are. For example, I think being a game warden would be a great job! But the qualification of being a pilot is secondary to other qualifications. Had I known that, I would have taken appropriate courses. Other jobs prefer rotorcraft experience with minimal fixed wing experience.
Good luck to you!