I on the other hand want to start training this July or August, and I cant decide on a school. I hear bad things about all the schools.
TheFlyingTurkey,
It's good, that you are taking your time in your decision, and yes, you will hear bad thing's about these schools, you need that objectivity to make and informed decision. No one program is perfect, they all have their pro's and cons. Also, look at the state of the industry since sept 11th, it was so-so before and it got worse after. Right now, it's a bit rough for the industry in general but things are on an upswing, regionals are slowly starting to hire, and you got to be optimistic and get ready, when they do start to hiring in full.
Also, be carefull of those programs that promise, that you will get from zero to the right seat of a CRJ in a heart beat, one school told me 18 Mo's, another said 14 Mo's. If the marketing types promise you that, ask for proof! if they cant produce, then you have your answer. One school went so far as to guarantee a job with a regional, I asked him how can you guy's do that when this regional just furloughed about 330 pilots and counting, his responce was like, "well, you cant put a lot of stock on what you read in the internet" and when I pressed him for proof, he got visibly upset. What I liked about FSI, was thier answer, it was honest, not canned like in other places. first learn to become a proficient pilot, earn your certificates, build up quality flight time and then, you can concentrate on a career.
So far, you have set to bar pretty high by touring FSI first. Dont be so surprised, if the other flight programs dont match up to FSI. The quality and standards are so high, that the differences will be like night and day.
Good Luck in your search.
Best Regards,
Heat2151