To buy or not to buy

[safepilot24]

Fellow aviators:

I am presently at 1000 total time, 40 of which is in a twin-engine aircraft. I recently gave up a very good CFI job to focus solely on obtaining more multi-engine time. I know of at least two 121 carriers that are currently hiring right at minimums of 1000/100. My question to all who have some input on the matter is should I buy the remaining M.E. time? I am very against buying any more flight time, but am aware that sometimes one needs to bite the bullet to get past that first hump. I am currently in the Bay Area, and the only program that I know of so far is ATP's ASAP program ($3500 buys you 35 multi-PIC). The one outstanding "catch" to this program is they require that you have flown at least 10 hours in the past 6 months. For me, it has been about 1.5 years since I last stepped in a twin. If I went that route, it would be 10 hours dual for $1700, which can be used towards an MEI, and then do the ASAP program twice, leaving me 80 hours of twin time for roughly $9000. Let me also add I was less than impressed with ATP's Sacramento facility, but I realize I am just time-building so it's what I put into it. I am asking for anyone who has ever been in this situation, or anyone who has input to help me with this decision. ANY and ALL input would be appreciated.

Thank you very much,

B

 

[CrewDawg]

Find another person that has their mei (or get your), that wants to build time also, and split the cost. I have seen poeple doing this lately for the very reason you have stated. That should cut that 9000 dollar figure in half.

 

[flynryan15]

Ariben Aviator

In Ft. Pierce florida 100hrs 5500 bucks and don't worry about being current because they have a 5 hour check out to get you current.

 

[350DRIVER]

I would tend to stay away from the programs that soley sell you "flight time". It is easier just to sit down one rainy afternoon and make the time up and put it in your logbook, plus it is a much cheaper way if you just want the "time" (also quicker). This should be a question of "experience" versus "flight time". You have come this far so why not invest in your career and future and look at the ways that you can aquire the experience in a real world environment. If it were me I would stay clear of these programs and concentrate on your career as a whole.

I know of at least two 121 carriers that are currently hiring right at minimums of 1000/100

The minimums and actual competitive flight times are much different. The 1000/100 are just so you can apply and your application is not spit right back out at you. Most average new hires have much more flight time . I would be more concerned about which route would allow you to gain the valuable real world experience versus worrying about how to just aquire the "minimum" flight time(s) so you can apply for a specific position. You will have your entire career to worry about minimums. Once you get past the regional industry you can pretty much throw that "minimum" flight time thing right out the window since then it becomes a strictly "competitive" ball game..

Think outside the box....

Get the MEI, network, etc, whatever it takes. I had to bite the bullet for 3+ years to get to where I am today but if I had to do it all over again I would take the same route where I gained the "experience" versus just "flight time". A pencil will accomplish the same thing as "buying" the time..


good luck,

3 5 0

 

[jdog78]

Contrary to what 350 says, buying time can add valuable flying experience, certainly more than just padding your logbook with a pen. I've met some people that used their time to fly across the country...it is quite common. So if you can afford it, go for it. However, meeting minimums won't guarantee a job, or even an interview. Consider using that money to get your MEI, as some have already suggested. I think that would look even better on a resume.

-j

 

[superrav]

twin time

I have a twin....can give you a deal..if your interested.
PM me..

 

[MarineGrunt]

Re: twin time

I have a twin....can give you a deal..if your interested.
PM me..

Where are you?

 

[superrav]

NJ

 

[DAS at 10/250]

DO WHAT?

I have to disagree with 350driver.

How is flying not building experience?

Is your logic that once you have a rating any flight time purchased after that is a waste?

I don't see how flying 100 hrs in a twin cross-country in WX is a waste. I see that as a heck of a lot better than laps around the pattern for 100 hrs. MEI is great, but being a flight instructor prepares you to be a flight instructor. Take the opportunity to get out there and get some real world experience and get the heck away from the flight schools.

I flew at the Aviator with several guys(myself included) who were 1400+ looking to meet insurance on a C340/BE58/PA31 that they had just been hired on.

MULTI TIME IS THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS. GET ALL THAT YOU CAN.

Merriam-Webster's 10th edition:
experience; the fact or state of having been affected by or gained knowledge through direct observation or participation

More flight time=More experience=More employable

Just my .1414213562 X .1414213562 cents worth.

chow