How to become a training pilot?

[merikeyegro]

How does one go about getting into training at an airline, small or large? I am interested in that side of the business. I know it's unusual, but I have more fun teaching than I do sitting and watching the plane fly.

At your airline, what does the process from new hire to training pilot involve? How much experience is needed? Also, where are your training bases (any airline)? Lots of questions. Hopefully, someone has an answer.

Thanks for the help, kids.

 

[80/20]

It’s a bit similar to finding an airline job, getting the training is the easy part while getting the job requires experience. The difference is that the training must be given by the training center/airline that you want to work for. You can work in the simulator and/or on the line as an instructor to give type ratings or FAR required training and checks. Some instructors are also check airmen, examinators or training course evaluators (TCE).

Requirements for type rating instructors are:

1) Have the rating/certificate you will teach

2) Ground school and written exam in fundamentals of teaching

3) Observe one complete course for the type at the training center/airline you are to teach

4) Teach a complete course under observation

5) Pass final evaluation

TCE: Must have additional training and normally conduct actual oral/practical checks under the observation of the principal FAA inspector in charge of the center.

Some airlines have full time sim instructors, typically retired airline pilots or pilots who have lost their medical. Many airlines use line pilots who work part time teaching besides some line flying. Recruitment varies a bit but generally most airlines will select experienced captains who also have good people skills. FOs and FEs are also used as instructors at some airlines.

The most common route is to get a job with an airline and do a good job for at least some years first.

 

[merikeyegro]

Thanks for the note. I'd love to stay in aviation but don't think I can handle flying as my only means of working. I get antsy on a Seminole, for God's sake, if the flight gets beyond 2 hours long.

Anyway, thanks for the insight. Any idea where some airlines have their training bases? In specific, the smaller airlines (if at all). Any help is great. Take care.