Re: CAPT AND ASA!!! EVERYONE DOUBTING TAKE A LOOK
Although there are some very insightful comments on the CAPT program in this thread I keep waiting for someone to analyze the program from an economic rather than a flying perspective. Since nobody has picked up on this, I'll attempt:
Point 1: Both the CFI/CFII/MEI and the ab initio tracks are valid methodologies and provide a motivated pilot the opportunity to move into the airlines. The CFI track is predicated on the premise that a pilot "should pay his/her dues" before being allowed to enter the rarified arena of the airlines. The ab initio program is predicated on a fast track philosophy that selects individuals based on their potential to complete a total immersion program that culminates in a type rating course (thus mirroring a new hire course at the airlines). The assumption, of course, is that both tracks work as evidenced by the quality of the pilots that both methodologies produce.
Point 2: An ab initio program graduate has the potential to be hired by an airline based on his/her demonstrated ability to successfully complete a type-rating course and pass a full FAA rate ride (in CAPT's case, since the program is not affiliated with a Part 121 operation the rate ride requires far more in terms of demonstrated ability with the overriding consideration being command judgement). Furthermore the CAPT candidate pays an extraordinary sum of money ($65,500 for the initial classes, it has since increased to $80,000) for a potential ROI during the first year of employment of approximately $20,000.
Point 3: At this point the economic perspective becomes very clear. An ab initio new hire begins their career upon completion of a CAPT-type program. He/she will build seniority and after the initial year, a period where the new hire is on probation, will start to gain economically first as an FO and then second upgrading to the left seat at about the five year mark. Contrast this track with the pilot who follows the CFI track and will spend anywhere from 5 - 10 years instructing, flying freight, and, just prior to being hired by a regional, flying in a part 135 operation. This succession of low paying jobs are all part of "dues paying" but in the final analysis they are personal economic killers. This track produces excellent pilots, but chances are for every individual who finally makes it to the regionals - at the same abysmal first year pay and at the bottom of the seniority list - there are probably dozens who don't.
Clearly, we, as pilots, shoot ourselves in the foot many times because of the "I'll fly for food" mentality. CAPT-type programs simply offer an alternative to the traditional methodology. Now that the airlines have bought into this type of training program it may be time to evaluate one's career path from the economic rather than the flying perspective.
