Well it's over. Got back late yesterday. Took a jump seat home, which was cool, but not without a few hassles. Give me a few days to rest and recuperate and I'll post up a full write up of my experience.
Couple of things to leave you guys with. Seaport while it has its issues, is a great company for those starting out. I really got a team work feel from everyone. I felt very welcome by the current employees. Made a few new friends.
For example when I had some concerns about passing the systems test, the CP spent over 4 hours with me making sure I was up to speed on the aircraft. It was offered to everyone in the class but I was the only one to take him up on it.
The tests are tough. Not everyone makes it through. I had a lot of turbine experience from the Army and still was worried I would not pass the systems test The GOM test I just made the minimum passing score. So it isn't a cake walk by any stretch of the imagination.
Yes, they did have a gear up incident a while back, and no it is not the reason for moving away from the PC12. The story is the CP worked hard to keep the 2 pilots involved from loosing their jobs. But these guys apparently really went out of their way to screw things up. My understanding is one is back flying the other isn't, CP had nothing to do with this. However I really felt like the CP is looking out for his pilots. And I heard this a lot from other pilots there. Might be the cool aid but I heard it enough from other pilots and felt it in my dealings with him. So I highly recommend the company to anyone starting out.
You are going to fly your ass off here. Most lines are 100-116 per month. So if you are looking to build time this is a good place to hang your hat for a year or so. The CP is very aware this company is a short stop in the career path of most pilots but he is dedicated to making it a good one. They need pilots so get your resume in as soon as possible.
There is a couple of things coming soon that will really make Seaport an attractive opportunity but I don't think I am allowed to discuss it. But the benefits today are pretty good as they are. But you will work your ass off for it.
Frankly I was shocked to get hired as a low time fixed wing pilot. My helicopter time made up the difference and I believe I had the third highest hours in the class with the lowest actual fixed wing time. Between that and being older by at least a decade than everyone else in the class I was the odd man out. Many jokes were made about that. Most by me.
Couple of key things to keep in mind. Seaport (as any pilot job) is a customer service job 1st and foremost. As an FO starting out, your customers are not just the passengers but the pilot as well. Keep that in mind, be flexible, always keep a positive attitude and you'll do well with your.
Seaport is a good company to get your feet wet with. I highly recommend applying. Show a good attitude with a focus on customer service and you'll have a great chance of getting hired.
Feel free to hit me up with questions but I'll do a full write up of ground school soon.