Is Instruction the Best Way to Build Hours for an ATPL?

The prospects of accumulating flight hours to achieve the Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) are often filled with questions and uncertainties. One potential route is flight instruction. However, is this method truly the best or merely the easiest?

Why Instruction?

Flight instruction might appear to be the most accessible path due to its relatively lower entry barrier. Immediate employment opportunities abound as a flight instructor, making it a straightforward procedure to record flight hours. In a general aviation aircraft like the C-150, instructing can be a quick and convenient way to clock in these required hours.

Limitations of Instruction

However, it is essential to recognize that flight instruction alone does not provide the most valuable and versatile set of flight experience. The proficiency gained through instructing in a C-150, while basic and essential, pales in comparison to the advanced skills and experience one acquires through flying multi-engine charter flights. These flights offer a diverse and challenging environment that enhances your situational awareness, judgment, and night flying abilities—crucial skills for a professional airline pilot.

Strategies for Effective Instruction

While flight instruction can be an effective tool, it is not without its pitfalls. To maximize its benefits, consider instructing in controlled airspace near major airports. This will provide you with ample opportunities to become adept at controlled flight and communication, two critical skills for professional pilots. However, be wary of the burnout that can result from such work. Aim to instruct for around 1000 hours, after which you will start to see opportunities to engage in more challenging and rewarding flight experiences.

After Instruction

Many pilots find that after their instruction phase, they naturally transition to more demanding roles. For instance, I myself accumulated my first 1500 hours as an instructor before branching out to work in the remote northern regions of Canada. Following this, a stint with regional carriers provided further valuable experience. Finally, I found my niche flying the north coast of British Columbia, a role that offered numerous benefits and immense satisfaction.

Conclusion

While flight instruction is a viable strategy for building your flight hours, it is crucial to consider the broader context of your career goals. A balanced approach that includes a mix of instructing, challenging commercial flying, and regional carrier work can provide the comprehensive set of skills needed to excel in the aviation industry. Best of luck in your pursuit of the ATPL and beyond!