Flying career in Alaska, what's it like?
I may have an opportunity to go and teach in Alaska. My hopes are that this will transition me into a flying career in the state. I am aware that flying in Alaska is not for the weak, and that during the course of teaching, I'll be able to gain the skills and knowledge required to fly safely.
I have a few concerns and I am unable to find answers for them in all of the searches I have done.
1. What is ATC and radar coverage like?
2. I am aware that the majority of flying takes place VFR, but how much of this right at mins and questionable?
3. Is scud running a common practice?
3. Are pilots pressured into flying into questionable conditions at risk of losing their jobs? How are pilots treated buy other employers if they lose their job because they won't fly.
4. What is maintainance like? Are planes kept in good shape?
5. What operators should I avoid?
I want to make sure that I am not getting myself into something where I will kick myself. I am not a hot shot pilot, and I don't like taking chances. From what I have read, it appears to me that some operators don't appriciate this and would rather risk lives and property to make money.