Any guidance appreciated
Posted by False_Bridge_8632@reddit | flying | View on Reddit | 5 comments
Hey everyone, looking for some guidance from people who’ve gone down a similar path.
A little background on me — I graduated college and started working on my Private Pilot License (PPL), but partway through I felt the call to serve and joined the Army. I’m currently active duty and my contract runs through April 2029.
My plan right now is:
- Finish my PPL while I’m still serving (on my own time/pay)
- Then, once I separate, use my VA benefits (Post-9/11 GI Bill) to go through a Part 141 fast-track program with the goal of going straight into an airline career
One important note: I already have a bachelor’s degree, so going back to a traditional college aviation program doesn’t really make sense for me and would feel like a waste of time. I’m specifically trying to go the direct, accelerated training route.
I’m trying to get ahead of the curve and figure out the best schools/programs now so I can plan everything out.
What I’m specifically looking for:
- VA-approved Part 141 programs
- Fast-track / career pipeline style (ideally all the way through CFII/MEI and beyond)
- Non-collegiate programs (or ones that don’t require pursuing another degree)
- Locations on the West Coast:
- Pacific Northwest (Portland area would be ideal)
- Southern California is also a strong option
If anyone has:
- Personal experience using the GI Bill for flight training
- Recommendations for schools in those regions
- Insight on what to avoid vs what’s worth it
I’d really appreciate it. Trying to set myself up now so I can hit the ground running when I get out.
Thanks in advance.
FishrNC@reddit
It's been a long time for me but we had flying clubs in the Air Force, sponsored by recreation services. Cheap flying and great time building. Does the Army have such a thing?
KCPilot17@reddit
The AF doesn't even have such a thing outside of about 3 locations.
ltcterry@reddit
“with the goal of going straight into an airline career”
That’s not quite how it works.
The typical path is “instruct to 1,500 hours” or whatever “mins” happen to be at the time you’re applying.
The last few years have produced a glut of new instructors. More instructors. Fewer starts.
If you find a job it will be 2-3 years of instructing before you are eligible to apply for an airline job.
VA funding outside of 2-year or 4-year degree programs will have an annual cap lower than you’d like.
Generally the more accelerated the training the more limited your experience. The more limited your experience the less competitive your resume will be.
The weather typically sucks for flight training in the NW.
Find a 2-year program somewhere with good weather. Use your active duty time to build great depth and breadth of experience.
Stay USAR at least until you have an airline job. You’ll need the money and cheap insurance.
rFlyingTower@reddit
This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:
Hey everyone, looking for some guidance from people who’ve gone down a similar path.
A little background on me — I graduated college and started working on my Private Pilot License (PPL), but partway through I felt the call to serve and joined the Army. I’m currently active duty and my contract runs through April 2029.
My plan right now is:
- Finish my PPL while I’m still serving (on my own time/pay)
- Then, once I separate, use my VA benefits (Post-9/11 GI Bill) to go through a Part 141 fast-track program with the goal of going straight into an airline career
One important note: I already have a bachelor’s degree, so going back to a traditional college aviation program doesn’t really make sense for me and would feel like a waste of time. I’m specifically trying to go the direct, accelerated training route.
I’m trying to get ahead of the curve and figure out the best schools/programs now so I can plan everything out.
What I’m specifically looking for:
- VA-approved Part 141 programs
- Fast-track / career pipeline style (ideally all the way through CFII/MEI and beyond)
- Non-collegiate programs (or ones that don’t require pursuing another degree)
- Locations on the West Coast:
- Pacific Northwest (Portland area would be ideal)
- Southern California is also a strong option
If anyone has:
- Personal experience using the GI Bill for flight training
- Recommendations for schools in those regions
- Insight on what to avoid vs what’s worth it
I’d really appreciate it. Trying to set myself up now so I can hit the ground running when I get out.
Thanks in advance.
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It looks like you're asking about getting a college degree.
A degree never hurts, get one if you can afford it. Whether it is required today or not, it may be required tomorrow. And the degree can be in anything, the major isn't that important.
Please read our FAQ, which has a ton of information and wisdom about becoming a pilot, including advice on college.
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