I'm in a bit of the same boat as you. I'm currently working on getting my private, but I'm learning through a family friend who is a CFII, A&P, IA so maybe this can help you maybe not.
- Whats a good way to build up flying hours once you have the licenses in place?
My instructor ended up convincing me to purchase a Cessna 150. We did a lot of searching and found one for a really good price with a low time engine, not too much to fix, that was IFR certified as well. We figure by purchasing the plane, I am really only paying for his CFII fees ($25/hr), gas (~$5.30/gal; 5gal/hr) and maintenance (~$8/hr). When I finish getting the hours I need, I can either sell it for a profit(NO), or keep it to give lesson in once I get my CFI cert and upgrade later down the line (YES).
Its basically a race to get to 250 hrs so I can get my commercial and CFI and start making money. We're looking into buying a twin soon too, as long as we can find a good deal on one, to do the same thing.
This is all under the idea that its not when you get your license, but how fast you can get the hours.
Can you apply direct to airlines with few flying hours? (I have been researching and it seems Ryanair will take you on as cadet if you have the licenses already in place, at some cost but its something I have found)
Airline Pilot Central has a lot of airlines and their minimum requirements to be hired on the website. Just search for them on Google.
- Would I able to apply for jobs in the USA with sufficient training? (I have a visa but it doesn't allow me to work, however, I know a few people indirectly who have got jobs with a few USA airlines and they have sponsored them to work and lead them on the path to a green card!)
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- Would it be worth trying to join the RAF as a pilot? Would they be more likely to take me on as I would have a degree and at least a PPL?
Right now there are a lot of pilots leaving due to the mandatory age retirement. More to do so soon. Joining the RAF would get you the hours, but it would take a few years, and that's if they actually let you fly. I don't know their system though. Again the faster you can get the hours, the faster you can get the job. Being tied down to the military may make it harder to get a job once you're out. Its your choice though.
- I have also found CTC Wings who finance your training with an airline and lead you on the path to a career? Again, their website makes it out to be amazing but I need some realistic comments instead of their advertising haha.
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