Nothing in life is free. And either is Flying For Free. Pilots can fly for Free but first they must pay for their training, and work for Free. Oh... and sometimes they must pay to fly too.
I was trying to figure a way to put a business into service to help pilots get their flight hours, and was told this idea was not possible. Perhaps not in the United States. Hello Airline, a Swiss Charter Airline, is doing just this.
I've been told: "Pilots who have a type-rating, but not enough flight hours will pay up to 50,000 euros (approximately $65,000 U.S.) for 500 flying hours as co-pilot."
For those that do not have a type-rating, I think you can get an A320 rating in the US from $13,000 - $14,000.
If you look at this from a pilot's perspective, you could pay $100,000 to get enough hours to get your dream job. Should we view this as an expense like college?
There is a U.S. charter operator doing this too. However, with the FAA change of rules requiring 1500 hours, I wonder how this will change their business plan.
Is this a smart business concept,
or Pilot Exploitation?
I was trying to figure a way to put a business into service to help pilots get their flight hours, and was told this idea was not possible. Perhaps not in the United States. Hello Airline, a Swiss Charter Airline, is doing just this.
I've been told: "Pilots who have a type-rating, but not enough flight hours will pay up to 50,000 euros (approximately $65,000 U.S.) for 500 flying hours as co-pilot."
For those that do not have a type-rating, I think you can get an A320 rating in the US from $13,000 - $14,000.
If you look at this from a pilot's perspective, you could pay $100,000 to get enough hours to get your dream job. Should we view this as an expense like college?
There is a U.S. charter operator doing this too. However, with the FAA change of rules requiring 1500 hours, I wonder how this will change their business plan.
Obligation to the Passengers
What is the obligation to inform the passengers of these type of operating practices? What expectations do passengers have? For pilots, would you be willing to take a loan and buy your training?
I would love your thoughts.
Enjoy the Journey!
XO Karlene
