Most Useful Type Rating

[jimpilot]

Corporate Pilot

One of my best friends is thinking about getting a type rating when she gets her ATP to improve her credibility when she goes for interviews. She asked what I thought the best for her to get would be. I told her a 737 type like mine (not that I used it much) would be most useful since she doesn't know if she wants to go airline, corporate, cargo or go overseas. Many airlines and some corporate and fractional operators use the 737.

Shes got 2000 hours about 500 multi, 300 turbine, no previous jet experience. She doesn't really have any desire to work for a commuter and be under house arrest (read that as reserve) for a year or two at welfare wages.

Any input into this would be great. I never gave it much thought since I kind of fell into the jobs I've had.

The advice I give folks in her position all the time is to knock on a few doors at the local airport. Try and find someone who will use her as a rent a pilot if she gets the type. Then get that type rating, and hopefully some flying time with the flight department. She will then be very employable in corporate aviation. Her type rating shows her ability and the time will show experience. She may even end up with a job in another type that the hiring company is glad to pay for, knowing she has the ability and experience.

My .02 cents

 

[Black Hawk]

The Lear or 737 would be a real handful as a first type with little jet experience. C-500 sounds right to me. Lots of companies besides Southwest fly 737's. Since Southwest requires 1000 turbine PIC too would a 737 really be a hinderance for a regional gig?

 

[SWA GUY]

WN requires 1300 PIC turbine now.