I'm currently employed and when I was looking for that first job did consider paying for a TR.
I felt that having completed my ATPL with good grades, hour built, sent off CV's plus making contacts etc etc; I wasn't getting any breaks............... I was desperate, so I was prepared to take a
gamble and pay for a TR (737). As it happened I got a couple of interviews and subsequent job. Friends of mine who did pay for TR did actually get jobs.
BUT....... Also friends who didn't pay for TR also got jobs......
My answer to the original question is.......... as the market is so good at the moment I would definitely NOT pay for a TR. Good companies will bond new pilots and I think that is fair as it is up front and the descision is with the new recruit.
It's easy for me to preach as my first 2 companies bonded me but I honestly feel that at the moment, if you hold out, you'll get that first job without being screwed for the cost of TR.
Good luck to all the Wannabes
