New my name is Devlen

[DevlenP-OK-609]

Hi Adam my name is Devlen im doing research on flight schools and ive been looking at the Delta Connection academy and ATP. Im currently 17 turning 18 in september and im trying to get started with my training as soon as possible considering ive already graduated highschool 09 but im wondering what you can tell me about ATP and possibly what youve heard on DCA.

[ExpressJet Adam]

Hey Devlin and welcome,

Although I don't generally like to compare other schools to ATP (I encourage people to research on their own and get the facts, don't like sounding like a salesman), you asked so I'll tell you what I know.

I actually visited many schools before I made my decision to train at ATP, and DCA was actually pretty high on my list. Here's what turned me off from DCA:

Cost: they were very expensive, not sure what there current price is, but 6 years ago it more than double ATP's price. Also there seemed to be alot of "add-on" charges (ie., extra sim time, $25 an hour to use pc's with MS Flight Sim?). ATP, the price is guaranteed.

Time Frame: this was huge to me since I was twice as old as you. DCA training, to get me through all my licenses and ratings, was a year vs ATP's 3 mos. After that they said you needed to instruct for 2 years min before you get your airline interview (I instucted for 5 months and was hired by ExpressJet). Now even though you're are young and time may not SEEM as critical, remember, the sooner you're done training, the sooner you can instruct, the sooner you get hired (and get paid), and the sooner you build seniority and move up the food chain.

Finally when I asked DCA about bust rates they said they were almost non-existant. That bothered me. Not trying to sound like I'm any better or smarter than anyone, BUT, you simply cannot convince me that every person with the cash can or should be an airline pilot. The reality is, just because you have the desire and a check, doesn't mean it's going to happen. It requires alot of hard work, and yea, some brains and skills.

On the flip side let me say this, ATP is not for everyone. The program is accelerated and does require a great deal of self study and discipline. Some people simply aren't up for it. I'm not saying that as a challenge, it is what it is. DCA will let you take your time and they will spoon feed you (as long as you have the cash in your account). Problem is the airlines won't so you better get ready, the firehose is coming.

At the end of the day I know some really good pilots who went to DCA and were very happy witht the training and the results. As long as I don't tell them what I payed and how long I took at ATP, it's all good.

Adam

[DevlenP-OK-609]

Okay thanks. i also want to know your experience with ATP because alot of people habe told me it seemed like they trained them to the grounds of the test and not everything they should no did it seem like that and how was your time at the school

[ExpressJet Adam]

Devlen,

Not really sure what you mean trained to the "grounds of the test"?

My experience at ATP was fantastic (which is why I'm here spreading the gospel). My instructors were great and provided my with some solid training. That being said, again, it's not for everyone.

Basically my instructor would send me home every night with an assignment and a quiz. The next day he would grade the quiz, review anything I missed and then ask if I had any questions about the material. If I didn't, we'd move forward. If there was anything that needed clarification, we'd review until it was clear. I like that but to be honest there were other student who did not. They wanted to be "taught". "I paid you guys, it's your job to teach me". What you have to understand is ATP is preparing students to be airline pilots. Many airlines these days have actually cut down on the academic portions of their training. Some will send you home with a laptop after you're hired and tell you to come back in 6 weeks. When you show up day one there's an exam, and you better know EVERYTHING. If not, you're gone. They don't want to hear I need more time or I don't understand. They expect you to research and get the information. ATP isn't that bad but they're trying to get you in the right mindset.

For me, it was great and I feel prepared me well. The guys that didn't and complained "it's too much too fast". I don't know one of them who's still flying.

Adam

[DevlenP-OK-609]

Okay so they give it to you in away that resembles the airlines?

[ExpressJet Adam]

Welllllllllllllllllllllll, not really,

Let's just say they provide you with all the information and resources you need to succeed, but the student shares the RESPONSIBILTY (one of my favorite words) in making sure he gets it all.

FYI: In a somewhat related point, and to help illustrate what I'm saying; if you are ever on an interview with an airline, and you hear the words "well it wasn't my fault......." coming out of your mouth, you probably just blew the interview.

Make sense?

Adam

[DevlenP-OK-609]

oh ok.... So what is your schedule like flying for express jet

[ExpressJet Adam]

Schedule varies considerably. I'm a very senior FO (formerly a junior Capt) so my schedule is pretty much what I want. I generally do 4 day trips because I like to travel far and the those trips usually get you out there. Most of the time I work 4 days on and 3-4 off, but again, most times I can get what I want. For example this week my wife went to Rome and I wanted to be home with the kids, so I traded my 4 day for 4 day trips which got me home everynight.

When you start you'll be on reserve which means you'll fly when the airline wants. The more seniority you get, the more you can get what you want. Cool?

Adam

[DevlenP-OK-609]

Thats whats up. soo seniority really does play a big roll

[ExpressJet Adam]

Seniority is everything.