Genuinely, am I too old to consider being an airline pilot? Given that:?

Question

I'm 30, I'm RAF groundcrew with only my PPL. I don't have £60,000 in the bank, closer to £6000. How realistically could I change career and one day (not overly distant) be flying a turbofan? Gimme realism, no 'you're never too young' or 'you can do whatever you want' answers. I told my ugly mate he could have any girl he wanted...and don't I feel guilty...but you get the point :n)

Answer 1

What sort of Ground Crew?  Power Plants, Airframe or Electrical?  If so you may want to investigate the Flight Engineer route.  That would get you in the cockpit of older aircraft and many turbos.  

My son found a great light school for your needs called, Langa Air.  http://www.langaair.com/  Their fees are reasonable and there are loans available.  While you progress in your ratings you are given opportunity to 'fly off your debt'.  so with an Instructor Ticket you would be giving instruction to newer students while building time.

Someone may have more direct experience with them but all the research I've done looks positive.  Definitely go for it because the industry is expanding significantly. There is even good opportunity for English speaking pilots in China.

If you have or can get an A&P license you could probably work your way through a flight school in China.

Good Luck

Answer 2

its not just money you  need but the right qualifacations. I think you have left it a bit late as you cant become a pilot overnight

Answer 3

Here's a couple of ideas that might help:

Sponsored Training

Some airlines offer places on sponsored training schemes. You normally need at least five GCSEs (A-C), including English, maths and science, and two A levels, preferably in maths and physics. The entry requirements can vary between companies, so check with individual airlines.

Armed Forces' Experience

If you are a qualified pilot from the armed forces, you can take a conversion course to gain a commercial pilot’s licence. There is strong competition for pilot training in the forces and you must serve a minimum term before taking up employment with an airline (See RAF job profiles for details).

Also can you teach? This would give you experience and money to fund your new habit!

Answer 4

You want to do this, why?

It will certainly cost more than you have in the bank.

A possibility is 'ab initio' training which some airlines in UK/EU are begining to establish.   This would minimize or eliminate costs to you.   But my knowledge of these programs is very limited.

As I am not in the UK I can only suggest you ask  your questions directly to those who are doing what you want to do.

Go to local airports, ask at corporate flight departments.  Contact BALPA and ask.  Also, flying clubs and wealthy folks with their own airplanes.

There is an interesting website at 'airlinepilotcentral.com'.

The short answer...if you can get help with the $$$ and its your dream, go for it.

If you must pay for everything yourself or you are anything less than fully committed...drop it now and move on.

Answer 5

yes... the max recomended age is 40 and the minimum is 23

Answer 6

Never Never too late!!!! you have 35 years left! you can fund everything. your instrument rating and multi engine and your ATP. Go to local airport get a bundle of paper's about all this and ask them about loans. h**l, you can' change it over night no, but you h ave 35 year's left until you have to retire so make the dream come true. Sounds corney :). and since you plan to fly a turboprop, it's easier since you need less hour's and it's cheaper.

http://www.atpflightschool.com/

Mr.answer's? the max age to be a pilot is 65. where thehell did you get 40?