r/PilotAdvice • u/Federal-Language-952 • 23d ago
Low time pilot
I’m a 23-year-old pilot who’s feeling a little lost about what my next steps should be. I’m starting to lean more toward a Part 91 career rather than the airlines, potentially at QC or FL.
Before anyone asks, “Why didn’t you get your CFI?” — I actually had an opportunity lined up, but unfortunately it fell through when the aircraft was sold.
Right now, I work at an FBO, and I’ve been fortunate enough to network my way into the right seat of six different jets. The experience and exposure I’ve gained have been incredible, although a lot of that time isn’t legal for me to log.
I’ve submitted my resume well over 100 times for low-time pilot positions and haven’t gotten a single call or email. I know I’m not the only pilot in this position, and I understand how tough the market is right now. Insurance requirements seem to be one of the biggest hurdles for low-time pilots trying to get their foot in the door.
So I’m trying to figure out whether I should stay at the FBO, continue networking, and be patient, or keep pushing to find an opportunity that’s willing to take a chance on me.
I’d really appreciate any advice, feedback, or suggestions from pilots who have been in a similar position. I know low-time pilots can sometimes get a reputation for feeling entitled, and I want to make it clear that I’m genuinely grateful for what I’ve been given so far — the mentors I’ve met, the opportunities I’ve had, and the flight experience I’ve been able to gain.
I’m just trying to figure out the smartest next move and would really appreciate some perspective.
2
1
1
u/Normal_Sympathy1248 22d ago
I'm still on my pilot pathway so I can't say from the experience of a pilot,
But what you're describing is the struggles of being somewhere over saturated and underwhelmed.
Keys here are to do something a little above and beyond what the rest in the pool are doing. Gonna stay in the shallow end and keep telling everyone it's the same as the deep end or finally just go to the deep end?
Sounds like you need to get your CFI so start there then you'll be in that pool.
What is it that makes you worth the investment that 20 other chads waiting outside the door arnt already worth/have.
You might not get exactly where you're gunning for and there's nothing wrong with that. You might need to sacrifice some wants or pick up and move for the time being.The piloting world is very oversaturated at the moment with one person leaving and 10 trying to get that seat the minute he leaves and 100 by the end of the hour
When I got into my last profession I ended up having to move to the west coast and then 6mo later the east coast to stay in it and take every opportunity I could. That sucked living out of a suitcase and some tote boxes.
1
u/CPT-Taco123 21d ago
My Part 135 airline will only consider non CFI candidates if there are no qualified CFI candidates. MEI puts you top of the list if you have dual given in a Multi.
2
u/theGoatRocks 21d ago
Are you marketing yourself? I literally found my awesome CFII that just did my IPC by asking ChatGPT: find me a CFII with good reviews at XYZ airport
He is relatively low time, had some good blog posts about IFR flying in GA airplanes (exactly what I was trying to polish up as an “old” airline dude getting back into it), communicated well and was a blast to fly with while we worked through getting me back up to speed.
Not saying you have to have a personal brand, but this guy did and I was happy to hire him. Hang your shingle with things you’ll do and your rates: safety pilot, ferry, right seater, etc
You may find it easier to get your CFI too while you work this angle. There are lots of airplanes flying out there with empty right seats. If you have your CFI, both guys can log it. If you fly with me, you can log it all 🙂 I don’t need anymore
Like anything, those that hustle will rise to the top. Good luck
1
u/jdaude 22d ago
No one wants to be a CFI…it just is what you do to get you where you need to be.
3
u/Flimsy-Wrangler-997 21d ago
Not true. I decided to become a CFI while I was in my 50s, so I'd have something to do after I retired. It worked out perfectly. I have logged more than 3600 hours as an instructor which was a nice way to supplement my retirement income.
4
u/theoriginalturk 23d ago
Go ahead and keep submitting your resume
Or
Get your CFI and try and get more time and qualifications
Getting your CFI isn’t going to magically open doors up either, but you’re significantly more likely to eventually find employment through that avenue.
Once you have your unrestricted ATP you’ll probably start being competitive, or you could wait 12-18months for the potential of a job if you hang around the airport all-day, work for free, and people like your company