Hi guys,
I have a Frozen ATPL and 240 flying hours. I'm 24.
Like that of so many others my ultimate ambition is to fly public transport. Since completing my MCC and JOC a few months ago I have satisfied myself that I have applied for every widely known opening that I am eligible for. I could probably get the money for a type rating; I am not willing to join a 'pay to fly' scheme.
Would I be putting myself at a disadvantage by becoming a flying instructor? This may appear to be a stupid question but my concerns are as follows:
- It would take years to gain enough hours (were I unable to secure a full-time instructing role) to become a more attractive candidate for a FO job than a fresh-faced integrated graduate.
- By building time this way I'd put myself in the awkward experience bracket whereby I'd no longer be 'straight out of training' as some airlines apparently prefer.
- A former airline recruiter once told me that his company was put off by applicants that had extensive SEP experience as they 'would find it difficult to adapt to jets'.
Should I instruct with the opportunity cost being that I wouldn't then be able to afford a type rating for at least a few years? Or do my concerns have merit to the extent that, given where I eventually want to be, it's worth keeping the option of being able to fund a type rating open?
I'd be grateful for any advice or any response at all.
Many thanks.