How much does it cost from step 1 till becoming an airline pilot?

Question

I just need an idea of total expence that it can take.

Answer 1

Sorry for the half-baked answer, but from what I have seen (I am a mechanic) it takes A LOT of money, and it is a long and grueling hustle unless you already have the money for it. Out of pocket, figure about 50k. you have to do your 55 hours for your private I think, then keep building up until you get 250 hours for your commercial. you have to pay for all of your testing too, multi-engine and all that. Insurance on the plane you fly, 50k sounds good. You can then be an FO for some regional.....*sigh*

Answer 2

I checked Comair academy (Delta affiliation) just a while ago. It'll cost you around 70K until you're out. Bear in mind that you will only make about 20-25K/year in the first few years.

Answer 3

It really depends on the person. How capable you are of learning the information and how well you perfrom in the cockpit. If you attend a "major flight school". Delta academy, FLight safety academy, Embry ridddle etc... It can cost as much as 70,000-80,0000 dollars. I dont suggest going to these schools they take your money and the quality of training is no better than what you can get at your local FBO. But trust me they WILL tell you otherwise. I have been to Flights Safety and was Very displeased with the program. I have friend who have been to the other two  and say the same thing they wish they had continued flying at their FBO. I would have saved about 50,000 dollars. What you need to fly for the Airlines is a Multiengine commercial with an instrument rating to get started. Then, You will need to get yout ATP rating. It takes time. Dont expect to do it in a year. After you get you MEL with instrument rating. you need at a minimum 400 hours PIC time ( pilot in command) and 50 hrs Instrument time.  These vary per airline this is the lowest I have seen. Really to be competitive you need about 1000 hrs pic and 100 hrs instrument. Your starting salary in very low only about 21,000 per year. thats as a first officer. It take a few years to make anough to live on. So be prepared to pay your dues!!!! I am a Commercial pilot both fixed and rotorwing.