Become a Pilot?

Question

Note: Not a typical how do I be a pilot question.

I was wondering what the corporate/business aviation field 'looked like', in terms of current and projected pay changes over the years, job openings and projected changes over the years and so on and so forth...

Also, how is life as a corporate, or charter pilot, focusing on jets and turboprops used for executive travel (e.g. the King Air).

Everyone wants to fly for airliners and want to fly the largest, most expensive things in the sky but I can't help but think that you get the best of both worlds (private flying and flying for airlines) flying business jets... And that its the best option for me.

Also, would you stop at the CPL license or would you go to ATPL for hiring sake. And how much did you pay for it (wouldn't mind the location of the training, either)

Also, how much would type-ratings cost for small, medium and large sized aircraft...

Quite a bit of a request, I know, bare with me please. Can never know too much...

Answer 1

You are wise to be considering Part 91 and Part 135 jet gigs (referring to US Regulations). I had (still have it) an ATP and one type rating when I got my first jet gig and my second employer sent me to Flight Safety for my second type rating. Pay and equipment varies widely, but the best operations fly new equipment and pay well. A really good Part 91 gig (new top of the line equipment, top pay, stable employer, good schedule, no airline travel) beats most airline gigs any day.

Answer 2

First, there is no such thing as a CPL.  It's not a 'License'. It's a Certificate.

Second, if you are only going to fly corporate flights, the ATP is nice, because it gives you lots of hours.  But, IMHO, you are better off having the specific ratings needed for the company you want to work for.  IE, rated in the bird you'll be flying for them.

Third, as far as costs, firgure between $50 and $75 thousand to get to the level you'll need to fly right seat as a corporate pilot.