Is the UND Aerospace Helicopter program a good program to do if you want to be a Flight For Life Pilot?

Question

UND= Univercity of North Dakota

Answer 1

My son is entering UND this fall and planning on a major in commercial aviation. He is interested in his A&P as well, but that is another question and answer.

Before you completely dismiss the program as Apollo appears to be suggesting I would suggest talking to people in the program, both students and instructors. If it is at all possible, I would also visit the school.

You must decide what your goals are and determine if a 4 year degree fits your plan or you want just training.  One thing I really appreciate is the cross-training aspect of the program. Students must take cross-classes in other aviation majors. I think this gives them a perspective greatly needed in this swiftly evolving field.

I cannot quote exactly because this is not *my* area, but I saw that helicopter simulator a few weeks ago during our tour and it was awe-inspiring.

The campus is spectacular, the people are quite enthusiastic and the Aerospace Department is just astounding. The majority of the facility is quite new -- this includes simulators, planes and buildings.

If you are interested in more detailed answers, let me know and I can ask my son.

best,

cez

Answer 2

I recommend against this program for the following reasons:

Cost

http://studentservices.aero.und.edu/f3_A...

According to this site, they charge $310 per hour for a 300C, plus $99 for an instructor. That adds to $409 per hour. Most flight schools these days average about $275 per hour. The total cost of their program adds to over $100,000. You should be able to complete all of your training, including supplies, testing fees, ground school, etc. for $60K-70K.

Reputation

There is absolutely no advantage when competing for jobs if you go to an aviation university program versus a typical flight school. The only time the school you went to matters is if a.) the guy hiring you happens to have a personal connection there (unlikely regardless), or b.) if the school has a really BAD reputation (this is also rare).

Time

The time it takes you to complete a 4 year university program will likely exceed the time it takes to finish a local flight school. You could finish in less than a year if you really bust it out, or in two years at a moderate but consistent pace.

Degree

Having a four year degree is not the kind of minimum requirement that it is for the airline industry. Nevertheless, it is a very good advantage. I recommend getting a 4 year degree, and I recommend getting it in something outside of aviation to broaden your experience and serve as a backup just in case. If you already have a degree, then there is absolutely no reason to go for this program.

Don't get me wrong, it's not like they are a BAD school. The bottom line in my opinion is that you would greatly increase your costs without any increase in benefits.

You can search for other flight schools in your area here:

http://www.sacusa.com/1directory/states....

http://www.verticalreference.com/helicop...

You can learn more about the helicopter industry and flying helicopters here:

http://www.verticalreference.com/

http://www.justhelicopters.com/

http://www.helicopterflight.net/

You can read my comments about becoming a pilot in general here:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;...

Don't neglect exploring the military option if you think it might be for you. Do your homework before you start no matter what.

Good luck!