Which A/C will get the most Contract Work

[CarjCapt]

Of the medium to large business jets which one would have the most contract work for Captain/FO?

Having come from the RJ and have done some CL60 work I'm inclined, but not set on, to get a type in either the 601 or 604 Challenger series.

What do you think?

 

[SCT]

This is just my opinion, but there doesn't seem to be alot of 604 drivers around. I've gotten calls out of the blue from companies to do contract work. It's especially favorable if you have some international experience.

Good luck,
SCT

 

[G4G5]

Their are almost 500 - G4's out there so a G4 type would be a good start.

The other thing to consider is that a Falcon 50 type works for the Falcon 900's. Ther has to be at least 400-500 Falcon 50/900's out there. The 50 type is $10,000 cheaper then a G4 type.

The problem with both types is that their are a lot of pilots out there who are typed and current. If you live in a remote part of the country you may want to consider an odd type that you can charge a lot for and that someone would be willing to pay for your transportation. A Global type comes to mind (at last check their were only 150+ GEX's around)

 

[FlyFlyFly]

I agree with the above.

I would add that most people want some time in type as well. I have talked to people about 604 contract work and the first question they have is how much time in type do you have and are you current.

 

[Herculeus]

What about the Falcon 2000?

 

[psysicx]

Will companies fly you out or does it depend on how long the contract is?

 

[G100driver]

Will companies fly you out or does it depend on how long the contract is?

Yes. Part of business. Be sure and charge for your travel days as well.

I would look at getting typed in a G-350 - 550 if I was going to go at it as an independent contractor.

Not very many independent contractors in these airplanes so there is a definate need for contractors. Very few insurance companies will sign off on un-typed guys with 3 bounces to fly as SIC.

While a VERY expensive type rating you will be able to charge $1500+ a day and be able to fly 4 different types of aiplanes. Many of these airplanes will need a 3rd crew member to augment the 12+ hour legs that these beasts can fly.

 

[Lead Sled]

Their are almost 500 - G4's out there so a G4 type would be a good start.

The other thing to consider is that a Falcon 50 type works for the Falcon 900's. Ther has to be at least 400-500 Falcon 50/900's out there. The 50 type is $10,000 cheaper then a G4 type.

The problem with both types is that their are a lot of pilots out there who are typed and current. If you live in a remote part of the country you may want to consider an odd type that you can charge a lot for and that someone would be willing to pay for your transportation. A Global type comes to mind (at last check their were only 150+ GEX's around)

I've got a buddy that got his GIV type and he had real problems getting any contract work until he had 100 hours in the airplane. I understand that it was due to CPs wanting guys who didn't get tripped up by the FMSes.

'Sled

 

[G100driver]

What kind of FMS does the G-IV have? Is it that different than any other modern airplane?

 

[psysicx]

$1500 a day in Gulfstream? Does an insurance company care if you only have sim time?