The last outfit I knew of who engaged in this practice recently had their certificate revoked by the FAA for a number of rules and records violations along with operational control issues which occurred over the last several years. The fatal and non-fatal accidents were probably a factor in their demise as well. They were actually rather nice people and most of the pilots got out of there with their lives and a few hundred of those all-important jet hours.
Not to worry though. Even with these fine folks now out of the business, a 500 hour guy with no jet time and no willingness to gain any more experience which might qualify one on their own merits can still buy a job. (sorry, couldn't resist the jab!) Just go to all the charter operators with an offer to pay for your own type training. Some will look upon such a person with scorn and derision, but some greedy and unprincipled opportunistic owners will jump at the opportunity to get a free ride by allowing someone to foot their own training expenses for the opportunity to be a "jet pilot" and wear a uniform along with cool sunglasses! They will even pay a modest wage because labor laws require it. Maybe they will even allow someone like that to actually touch the controls if the airplane is kept spotless and the coffee is good! Just beware of their operating practices since their business ethics are allready proven to be suspect. The jet time will do little good after a violation or accident.
Allthough some of these kind of arrangements may still be possible at some operators, the current trend in the US for legitimate operators is to fill charter jet right seats with pilots who have at least 1,500 - 2,000 hrs total and 300 -500 multi. To be competitive, most have an ATP. Regional airlines and King-Air operators are hiring at 1,000 total with 100 multi. First year pay is abysmal, but patient employees will move up in pay and position with time.
Sorry if this isn't the kind of answer you were looking for, but that's the way it is. Getting your foot in the door in this business is rarely easy, even if you have money to throw around. Insurance and safety audit firms are making it increasingly expensive to employ 500 hour pilots in charter jets. There are plenty of pilots looking for work and even low pay entry level positions in charter are tending to demand more experience. Build some more time.
If a person is not cut out to instruct, then there's always banner tow, glider tow, scenic flights or VFR 135. Do whatever it takes to continue building time and staying busy. Be patient and continue to work toward your goals. If a lucky break comes along, great! Take it. I would. (and have!) Otherwise, keep your expectations realistic and your nose to the grindstone!
Best regards and good luck,
Westhawk
Last edited by westhawk; 5th August 2006 at 07:30.