Small FBO Experience Vs Big Flight School ME

[Crockrocket94]

Id have to say many of my flight instructors during the course of my training had sub 1000 hrs. I never thought any less of anyof them and they were all excellent. Sometimes having 1500+ hrs doesnt make a good instructor. The amount of training that goes into drivers ed, vs the training to become a CFI is vastly different and extrememly thorough for flying.

 

[NickH]

A little break down of the programs:

Aviator
46,000 Plus Checkrides
259 TT
Over 200 TT ME
PRI,INS,ME,COM,CFI, CFII, MEI

Dutch Wings
255 TT
23k plus apartment for the stay
15 TT ME
All rest of the time is Cessna 152 and Cessna 172.
PRI,INS,ME,COM

How important is ME time this early in my career? Can I tow banners and get a CFI without that ME time? I have no rush to get to the Airlines, but I will like to fly for pay after I get out of school.

Could I go timebuilding on a ME aircraft with another student further down the road?

If going to dutch Wings saves you $23,000, then this money could certainly be spent timebuilding. Another 200 multi (split) and you'd be under $46,000 with 450TT.

Remember, of course, to allow at least 20-30% extra.