Charter vs. CFI?

Question

I am thinking of ways to build up hours and I've come down to two choices = charter flying and CFI. Which would be most beneficial? Which will make more money, etc.

Answer 1

Here's the major problem with most charter operations.  They don;t tell you this when you interview so pay attention.

The most common aircraft type to be flying in are light to medium twins.  I'll use the King Air for my example but any airplane will do.

The KingAir requires a single pilot, with a type rating, and an ATP (in most cases).  Some companies' insurance requires them to have 2 pilots on board who are both trained to fly the plane.  

Under that scenario, you are not legally allowed to log any of that flight time.  The captain is the PIC and sole manipulator of the controls.  The KingAir requires a type rating (which you do not posess).  And you cannot log second-in-command because the aircraft is certificated to be flown by a single pilot.

It is very difficult to log flight time in that scenario.  In fact, it is illegal.  Every airline in the world will catch you if you try and you'll be sent home immediately.

So go get your CFI and instruct.  That is UNLESS you are getting a charter gig as a captain (doubtful at commercial pilot minimums) flying smaller aircraft that do not require type ratings (like maybe a Baron?)  Again, doubtful but not impossible.

Answer 2

Teach as a CFI-A or CFI-I.  That will help you later on.  Those who don't always show obvious gaps in aeronautical knowledge, especially when trying to act as check pilots or check airmen.

If the Part 135 operation requires a second pilot per FAR 135.23(c), then you can log SIC time.  

If the autopilot isn't working you can sometimes log SIC  time (FAR 135.105).

Read the definition [FAR 61.51(f)(2)--"more than one pilot is required under.....the regulation under which the flight is being conducted"] of Second-in-Command.

Answer 3

For real world experience, go the charter route, if you really want to teach (not just time building), instruct.

Jason, I must disagree with you on this one,  while the scenario you describe does exist, it is not by any means the norm., I have had a few gigs, networking is the key.

Answer 4

Odds are quite good you will stand a better chance of landing a job as a cfi. Especially with a wet ticket.

Answer 5

Depending upon your hours it may be difficult to get a charter position. I find that some of the best pilots are those that spent time as a CFI because you learn so much from you students while you are gaining beneficial hours. As far as where you would make more money that would clearly be on the charter side as flight instructors unfortunately do not make a ton of money.

Answer 6

Most of the CFI's are being hired by the Regionals right now or already have been hired. I know a couple of flight schools in my area are starving for CFI's.

Answer 7

Until you build some time it's doubtful you can get a charter job. Charter companies are each individually issued 135 air carrier certs and for the FAA to approve training and ops manuals they end up with minimum time requirements. Insurance plays into it too. Insurance companies don't want the risk of brand new pilots flying around a rock star who can afford to charter. Plan on being a CFI for awhile.