Got it good or bad

[Parrot_Head_Fly]

Just wanting some others view on my position. Currently flying air ambulance, king air 200 and 90. 11 hard days off, and reserve/on call for 20. Pay is 30K, our certifificate requires two pilots and we swap legs. Great guys I fly with and possibly upgrading to PIC status on the paperwork in 2-4 years. PIC guys get 50K and the same schedule. Only difference is PIC name is on all the paperwork. No big deal to me, I was just wondering if I have it good, or bad. I can't really make my mind up. Maybe a regional would be better for me, maybe not. Any opinions appreciated.

 

[CaptainSpaz]

Given your niche (air ambulance): Your copilot pay is average to above average. Your hard days off are above average, if not way above. Captains pay is average to above average. Doesn't sound like a bad deal for now. You should be upgrading to captain by the time you have 2500 to 3000 total time, no more considering the equipment. Bottom line, though: the charter/corporate/air ambulance end of the business isn't for everyone. If you have doubts, you need to get it figured out right now while you are still low time and it would make sense to go to a regional. Good luck.

 

[Parrot_Head_Fly]

Thanks

Sometimes the grass in greener, I have a few friends being hired by regionals and they will fly a lot. Good step career wise for them, I just sometimes wonder what would happen if I made that switch. Anyone else do that? I guess I should shut up and just be content with what I am doing.

 

[dhc8fo]

I agree that you should try to decide what kind of aviation career you want. It you stay put and keep building time and then upgrade, it would be foolish to go to a regional. But if you want an airline career, regionals will get you fast time. They both have tradeoffs. Your grass seems OK to me.