Yes, You Can I Become A Pilot at 45 (or older!)

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Күн бұрын

ACP345 How To Start An Aviation Career At 45
00:00 Introduction
02:27 Listener Mail Can I Become A Pilot At 45
03:56 You Are Not Alone
04:15 Create A Plan
05:15 Good grasp of your financial situation.
06:20 Communicate with your family the plan.
06:30 Share Your Dream with a Select group of people who want you to succeed.
08:00 This is a team effort.
08:05 Reach out to a career coach for motivation and an unbiased opinion.
08:35 Don't Give Up!
09:40 Financing your career change at 45.
10:20 Look for nontraditional student scholarships.
11:30 Setting Hourly Goals
15:24 Carl's Inspirational Message.
Welcome to the inspirational, informational, and transparent aviation careers podcast.
Today we answer the question: how do I start a career at 45 years old? Thank you to our listener who wrote into feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com
If you have a question leave on in the comments below or write us directly at:
feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com . I really like helping you reach your career goals.
Sponsor:
Speaking of helping people reach their goals, a special shout out to the sponsor of this episode PlaneEnglishSim.com. Many of you listen to this podcast to help understand aviation terms and their proper pronunciation in English. Well, there is an app for that. PlaneEnglishSim is an App-based aviation radio simulator and is an easy way to gain radio proficiency in both VFR and IFR flight.
Use the coupon code “PlaneEnglishSim” for free one-year access to the online Aerospace Scholarships guide. The show notes highlight links to the aerospace scholarships guide and the coupon code. There are a limited number of coupons so visit AviationCareerPodcast.com and use the code PlaneEnglishSim today. www.aviationcareerspodcast.com...
Listener Mail:
I am an avid listener of the Aviation NewsTalk podcast with Max Trescott and during this week's episode, he mentioned your name and your associated Aviation Careers podcast. I immediately jumped over to listen to one of your episodes and found myself with the impulse to reach out to you.
I have spent the last year working towards my Private Pilot Certificate, which I obtained last month. I have always had a fixation with and love of aviation, however, I have spent the last 22 years working in education as the head of a sports medicine department, and more recently the Director of Campus Safety and Security. Now, at the horizon of turning 45, I have found myself at a precipice of a career change, with a strong force pulling me towards becoming a commercial pilot.
For as long as I can remember, planes have held a special place in my life. Having my Private Pilot Certificate is something I have dreamed about for nearly 3 decades - since the release of MS Flight Simulator 3.0.
However, as a divorced father of three and the welcome recipient of a steady income, I am interested in knowing if you have any suggestions/tips/tricks for taking the plunge into the ATP process, airline hiring, etc. I am excited by the prospect of a career in aviation though I know there are things to take into consideration as well. Most people don’t start this process at 45.
If there is any information, hindsight, or insight you might be willing to share with me, I would greatly appreciate it. In the meantime, I look forward to tuning into your next show and hope to hear from you.
Be well.
Congratulations on Your Private Pilot Certificate.
You are not alone at 45. Many people start a second career in aviation with some as guests on this show.
Some advice for those starting a career at 45:
Links:
www.aviationcareerspodcast.com...
Sponsor:
Thank you to the sponsor of this episode PlaneEnglishSim.com . Many of you listen to this podcast to help understand aviation terms and their proper pronunciation in English. Well there is an app for that. PlaneEnglishSim is the App-based aviation radio simulator and an easy way to gain radio proficiency in both VFR and IFR.
Use the coupon code “PlaneEnglishSim” for free one-year access to the online Aerospace Scholarships guide. Links to the aerospace scholarships guide and the coupon code are in the show notes. There are a limited number of coupons so visit AviationCareerPodcast.com and use the code PlaneEnglishSim today. www.aviationcareerspodcast.com...
Some links may be affiliate links from which we receive a commission which helps us bring this content to you. Thank you for your support.

Пікірлер: 112

@j0nnapier 2 жыл бұрын

I became a private pilot in 94’ with the goal of becoming an airline pilot. Then, life happened. I met a girl, got married, bought a house (stopped flying), raised a family, had a great career in IT, but always had a certain amount of regret about not becoming an airline pilot. Not an uncommon story. Fast forward. About 4 years ago a good friend encouraged me to consider erasing that regret and pursuing my lifelong dream. Short version from here: renewed my medical, went to an AOPA rusty pilot program, did my flight review, practiced and practiced, got my instrument, commercial, CFI, commercial multi-engine and taught people to fly for a couple years. Covid put a damper on things but I never gave up. I built 1500 hours, got hired in Jan 2022 by the largest regional in the US (no names but not hard to figure out), and started training on May 2nd. I’m now in the middle of my training on the Embraer E175. I just turned 55 a week ago and could not be more thrilled. I could not have done this without the support of my wife, kids, parents, brothers, and my good friends. I also could not have done this without looking at my finances and how this could impact my future retirement given such a late career change. Listening to the advice of people like Carl and other good friends was so invaluable. I made sure I went into this with my eyes wide open so I knew what I was getting myself into. This type of career change my not be for everybody, but it was absolutely the right thing for me to do. If you plan this out properly and the the plan makes sense, go for it! It’s definitely possible!

@jameslaing Жыл бұрын

Congrats! Would love to hear more about your story when you have a minute.

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Outstanding! It would be great to have you on the show to share your journey. If you are interested visit: valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/how-to-be-a-guest-on-aviation-careers-podcast

@alexissalazarr Жыл бұрын

This was so wonderful to read. I just started my journey with lessons towards my PPL at 30 and have been so worried I started too late. Thank you for sharing your story, I am excited that you're on your way to your lifelong dream!

@dbatan1 Жыл бұрын

That is awesome. Congrats! My wife surprised me with a discovery flight for my 37th and strongly considering starting my aviation journey to becoming an airline pilot. Have a good career in AV, a mortgage, 6yr old daughter with another on the way so this pursuit will be challenging aside from the actual training, financing and the eventuality of leaving my job to attain this in a timely manner… Would love to hear the long version of your journey.

@lee9869 Жыл бұрын

I’m doin the same thing at 53.

@MattSwinden 2 жыл бұрын

In 2020, I retired from the fire service and started flight training, jump today - I'm starting a Part 135 job as a SIC on a Twin Otter at the age of 58....

@jesper2000 Жыл бұрын

I'm a 48 years old and i finally managed to get my EASA CPL/IR/ME and frozen ATPL. I know it will be difficult to compete with young guys with more flight hours than me, but I will try for sure.

@someguyonyoutube236 5 ай бұрын

Update?

@AndrewHealy-ft7jl 3 ай бұрын

Update?

@noahcohen2049 2 жыл бұрын

I started flight training at 41 and was hired to fly a Vision Jet, single pilot 3 years later so it's very doable

@Makethings987 Жыл бұрын

I will be 41 in November, just started my PPL, this is inspiring!

@JPonceVlog 6 ай бұрын

How much u think u invested to get tk that point?

@wmgroome 2 жыл бұрын

I am currently a private pilot and I am enrolling into ATP to finish my flight training later this summer. I turn 43 in August.

@riod43 Жыл бұрын

Did you make it to CFI yet?

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Awesome. Remember to keep taking one step every day toward your career goal!

@walterpal7248 Жыл бұрын

How’s it going for you? I’m 44 and am thinking of enrolling into ATP

@KPDXPat Жыл бұрын

I turned 43 in July and decided to go through the fast track at UND in Phoenix, almost ready for Instrument checkride. I am nervous about age and whatnot but its been fun so far. Good luck to you...

@AndrewHealy-ft7jl 3 ай бұрын

Update?@@KPDXPat

@dodzi2627 Жыл бұрын

Hey guys, I've just turned 50 and completed my EASA Commercial licence and in the final stages of completing me MEIR. Its taking almost 3 decades to reach this point as i've had a family and they've all grown up now, so I decided to pursue my dream. Its not easy, but stick with it. Don't be driven by what the world says about age, but believe in yourself as that's more important than anything else!! Good luck all and see you in the skies 🙂

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Awesome. Please keep us updated on your journey. I am glad you are pursuing your dream of flying! Remember to take one step every day towards your career goal!

@dodzi2627 Жыл бұрын

@@AviationCareersPodcast As of yesterday, I have finally completed my training and gained my MEIR. After gaining an MCC, I will start looking for work. I will definitely keep you updated. Thanks again

@VueloVFR Жыл бұрын

I started late in 2019 at 43 almost 44 years my PPL on flight school first with ground lessons by 6 months then the pandemia, All 2020 wasted. In 2021 I started to fly and in about 8 months make my 50 hours an make my checkride and the writen. Yesterdar january 4th 2023, I finally receive my private pilot license. Now I'm 47 years old and its great to be able to fly a plane by myself and have the license. Next Twin engine and IFR ratings. Great video greetings from México!

@davidbakerscuba Жыл бұрын

This is great information. I am 50 years old and I just started working on my PPL with hopes of going all the way to the ATP level and airlines. I am retiring from a large city after 25 years as a first responder. Luckily, I will have my pension but I definitely look forward to starting a second career in aviation.

@KPDXPat Жыл бұрын

This podcast gives me hope about starting a career in aviation in my 40's. Thanks for making video.

@Ivan-yj5cf Жыл бұрын

I am new to your channel and you present the aspects of a career pivot in a very rounded manner. I really appreciate that. I am 51 and have always been interested in aviation and.... unfortunately I had a good job. I am now researching this move. Lets hope I make a good decision.

@amitvolant Жыл бұрын

Thankyou so much for your video. You have elaborated whatever required to me in quite impressive manner. Thanks again, keep sharing info stuff. 🙏

@AviationCareersPodcast 11 ай бұрын

You are most welcome

@danielwaiswajohn7042 Жыл бұрын

great advice. thanks

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

@planeaddiction2560 Жыл бұрын

Im 49 years old, im in flight school. Flying Cessna 172. I love it. Im buying a airplane soon to build hours , then see what happens

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Awesome. Please keep us up to date on your progress towards your career goal. It would be interesting to hear about your experience in purchasing a 172 to build time.

@revampmobilesolutions8851 Жыл бұрын

I'm turning 48 in October, and same thing. Just starting ground, and planning to purchase to build hrs.

@heatherg.2848 Жыл бұрын

Thank you.

@rcsob657 2 жыл бұрын

grats on the upgrade!

@AviationCareersPodcast 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you.

@yazntaamneh9974 Жыл бұрын

Omg I really want to cry after watching this video and read some of the comments here , I am 34 years old and have my private pilot and working toward my instrument and i am always for this kind of encouragement since I thought I am too old for that , but really thank you for this valuable information I feel I am on the right track now after seeing people on their late 40 and 50 staring their flight training leaving comments here about their stories , but there is something always discouraging me responsibilities

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

I am glad you found the video encouraging. You have many years ahead of you at 34 years old. There are always things that will discourage us during our journey but I know you can do it. By the way, I changed my career to pilot at 33 and am very happy I did! Remember to take one step every day toward your career goal.

@rattmichards2908 Жыл бұрын

I was convinced I was too old to enter the industry but when I found this podcast last night it changed my perspective. I’m still doubtful anyone is offering any scholarship money to my demographic but I will definitely take a look. I’m giving this episode a second listen this morning. Thanks for the inspiration…

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

I am glad you found this helpful. There are scholarships for non-traditional learners being added every month.

@adam8305 Жыл бұрын

I’m 19 and still in high school due to procrastination and being stranded in another country for 2 years but I’m in 12th grade this year I’m going to graduate god willing. I am stuck on a massive dilemma i do not know if should chase a 4 year program where you get a bachelor’s and your aviation license or a 2 year program where you do not receive any bachelor’s but you still get your aviation diploma. I would like to get your insight on this matter because something about starting at the age of 24 really bothers me. Thank you sir for this fantastic video.

@gauravahluwalia1909 Жыл бұрын

Thanks lot sir

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Most welcome

@JCCFlying Жыл бұрын

Great video, i'm 55 and having been in hospitality for 38 years i've decided to change career and have just started my PPL training, but would love to complete my commercial rating and see if there are next career opportunities available. Thanks

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing and I am excited to hear about your journey toward your career in aviation! Remember to do something every day to move towards your career goal!

@semiwandering295 5 ай бұрын

I'm so glad you are in this mindset and are not saying I can't do that... gives me inspiration to do the same.. I am slightly younger than you and felt too old to do something this crazy

@robd2184 Жыл бұрын

It’s never too old to enter, but the time you’ve lost may mean you cannot make it through the seniority of a large airline to the top earning spots , so you may have to manage your expectations from that point of view

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

It is true you may not make it to the top of the seniority list but you might still be able to top the pay scale especially if you have more than 12 years left until retirement at the airlines. Great comment. You inspired me to make a video discussing how you can make top pay even if you don't make it to the top of the seniority list.

@robd2184 Жыл бұрын

@@AviationCareersPodcast , best of luck . i'm talking from a UK point of view where it plays out very differently . 250 hrs FO to low cost captain at 3000 hrs on a 737 . quick promotion but salary stops about £100k .... seems slowe burner in US but ability to make 3-400k dollars but at a " mid life " age with companies like UPS . i'm lucky i got in to this at 20... 757 capt at 33, 787 capt at 42 , 787 check capt at 44 .... 744 capt at 50 ( didn't expect that ! )

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Great perspective and thanks for the feedback. In the US you normally top out at 12 year pay with a median income around $200 is what can be expected in the US. It would be great to have someone on the channel to discuss aviation from a UK perspective since we are very US centric.

@LordBagdanoff Жыл бұрын

Of course you can just that the opportunities are lesser as some airlines have age limits!

@richardherrmann1954 Жыл бұрын

53 now . Yes why not and by a plane and injoy life and $$$$$ to be made .

@user-ks2oi7zo9g Жыл бұрын

Give me the list of academic to learn aviation

@DallasFort1857 Жыл бұрын

as someone who starting to begin their journey would you say the big 3 the only requirements whom are ppl, IR, and CPL rating needed? as in CFI, CFII, MEI are not necessarily required to get started?

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Experience is key an most gain experience by becoming a flight instructor. There are other flying jobs out there especially if you good at networking.

@shreyashahluwalia4066 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for good information 46, 47,age can do training for pilots,which country flying academy should join

@AviationCareersPodcast 11 ай бұрын

There are many options. I would suggest your visiting www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/learn-to-fly/flight-schools/. Also if you need further help with navigating your career please visit www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/

@RobertDress-dq9pc 11 ай бұрын

Great video! I’m 48. Dead broke with a wounded heart. A hole in my head and dreams of building a house in the middle of no where. This is where the pilots license comes in. Unfortunately my big financial plan is to stop spending money on beer. ( for now) My credit is shit. However I’m not in debt. I’m not in a commitment relationship and my children are under my ex wife’s care financially. I have no health issues and very fit. But if for some reason I’m order to get a pilots license I must get vaccinated than all bets are off. Is this the case? Will I need to get vaccinated in order to obtain a pilots license? I don’t want to do commercial flying or what ever. I just want to get a hold of a plane and fly across America to Oregon. And then I want to fly from Oregon to Cabo Mexico and back to help a friend grow and maintain his businesses. This will be my new career path. I need advice if anyone is out there. Thank you!

@delmontegreenbeans Жыл бұрын

From ground zero? I this the context?

@n.elliott9122 Жыл бұрын

I'm 50 and wanting to learn to fly. Not happy with any career and most happy racing motorcycles and cars. The only thing that has excited me as of late is flying.

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Flying is a great career. Just remember that many flying jobs require hours of straight and level flight and might not be as exciting as racing motorcycles or cars. With that said there are many exciting aspects of flying for a living.

@dane2lisa838 Жыл бұрын

You are just a regular ole' run-on sentence! You go on and on and on. Ge to the point!

@semiwandering295 5 ай бұрын

What a sweet person you are.. you can be nicer when making your point.. get the point

@gunndibachi8779 10 ай бұрын

Sir , i respect your concern regarding finances etc but is it possible for somebody to actually have a career in an airline as a first officer and do airlines hire 45 + age candidates with fresh cpl and required certifications ?

@AviationCareersPodcast 9 ай бұрын

The airlines have been hiring 45+ candidates for years as long as they qualify.

@shreyashahluwalia4066 Жыл бұрын

Please advice 47 yr can also do training for pilots

@AviationCareersPodcast 11 ай бұрын

Many people your age get started in aviation. For more advice on your specific situation I would consider a career coach. Please visit our coaching page at www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/

@dsd-downshiftdave8056 5 ай бұрын

I'm 46 and considering changing careers- but am worried as i found out the drop out rate is 80% and I've never excelled in school.

@AviationCareersPodcast 5 ай бұрын

The drop out rate is for many reasons. Many times trainees do not having the time or money to complete the pilot certificate. With proper planning you can avoid this. Furthermore, when you are motivated and doing something you really enjoy you tend to study more since you enjoy the topic. I think you can do it but if you want to discuss I can help through my career coaching at: www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/. I know you can do it if you are motivated to become a pilot!

@dsd-downshiftdave8056 5 ай бұрын

@@AviationCareersPodcast I'm Def motivated, I just want to make sure i know exactly what I'm getting into-I just bought the flight train module. Once I start flight school, dropping out or failing isn't an option, as I will be investing my whole life savings- I think your career counseling is Def a good step , Def be doing it prior to starting flight school- I've been taking your advice and everyday doing one thing to get me closer to my goal

@AviationCareersPodcast 5 ай бұрын

I know you can do it! @@dsd-downshiftdave8056

@marklawrence909 11 ай бұрын

I am 52, have 900 hours logged on a UK CAA PPL (A) fixed wing and wondering if it's possible to get on regional airlines or charter if I pass exams and get the ratings, and after 1500 hours. Anyone care to comment? I am in the UK but would like to work in the USA, I have heard a CAA trained pilot there can do well.

@AviationCareersPodcast 7 ай бұрын

Many have done the same. It will take some time to work through the process of being able to work in the USA. I am actually beginning to comprise a list of immigration attorneys that specialize in helping pilots.

@isingizweraymond3411 Жыл бұрын

Hi sir.how can I get in contact with you

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

Visit our contact page: www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/ or if you are interested in a career coaching session please visit: www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/coaching/

@jmann06 2 жыл бұрын

Can you still be a regional, fractional, cargo, airline pilot with tattoos, including ones above the collar?

@AviationCareersPodcast 2 жыл бұрын

Yes but much depends on the operator's policy. Some require tattoos to be covered.

@jmann06 2 жыл бұрын

@@AviationCareersPodcast thank you for your reply. That’s pretty much how I was thinking of it. The one tattoo in question, is really faded due to removal process many years ago when I was trying to get into the service. I currently work as a medic for a large city and they do not seem to mind.

@jeffstillwell6802 2 жыл бұрын

It is less of a problem all the time as the tattoo population skyrockets and the hiring personnel get younger...

@flyairch Жыл бұрын

In North Korea you dont have opportunity become pilot since they dont have planes and lock down. You guys should feel lucky

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

We are truly blessed to have a free and robust commercial aviation market in the US.

@alexanderordinary2110 2 жыл бұрын

its insane how many hours you need to get a decent job in your country. In asia/europe/africa, people get hired every day and all the time into major airlines sometimes even to fly the "big boyz" with a little as 6-700hrs!! They have been doing that for decades.No wonder your country is experiencing a "pilot shortage"...

@mppatterson7 Жыл бұрын

Look at the accident rate in those countries versus the US. No thanks.

@alexanderordinary2110 Жыл бұрын

@@mppatterson7 that is simply not true. The last couple of big accidents is bcuz boeing turned out to be making a turd of a plane.

@robgoffroad 11 ай бұрын

Yeah but keep in mind that if you are on an SSRI for anxiety or depression, you're screwed. Yes you can still get a medical, BUT, it will take 12-18 months and require multiple psychiatric evaluations costing THOUSANDS of dollars each. I said to hell with it.

@AviationCareersPodcast 9 ай бұрын

It can become a long process but for some it is worth the wait. Maybe you can revisit your goal in the future. I hope to have an AME on to discuss overcoming the challenges obtaining a medical for those who have taken SSRI's.

@riod43 Жыл бұрын

Would it be better for a 45yo regional FO to leave in less than 1 year for LCC or wait 3-4 years and shoot for a legacy after 1000TPIC as a regional captain and maybe try to be a LCA?

@bullishbear2686 Жыл бұрын

Huh?

@sophiasocal68 Жыл бұрын

Stay in the game, multi turbine time is your ticket. Probably wouldn't leave under a year for ANY job.

@riod43 Жыл бұрын

@@sophiasocal68 you get multi turbine regardless flying 121

@budguy21 Жыл бұрын

WAY too many plugs in this video.

@jamesburns2232 Жыл бұрын

My son told me the two professions that are the most pampered are pilot and doctor. He goes back and forth between the two professions looking for the best deal he can get for himself and his family. 🤔🤑🤤

@kimberlywentworth9160 Жыл бұрын

This is just about a bunch of commercials. A lot of talk about nothing.

@desertdog185 Жыл бұрын

This is really weird. You can start training at 60 but if you’re over 25, you simply don’t have time to gain enough seniority at a major airline to get on the great equipment and enjoy the good stuff. After 35 you’re going to be stuck in low paying domestic jobs forever. It’s just math reality.

@sophiasocal68 Жыл бұрын

There's a United Airlines FO who started flying at age 54. She's currently flying an Airbus.

@desertdog185 Жыл бұрын

@@sophiasocal68 Right. A320 FO is the bottom of the barrel. I’m not sure I understand your point.

@sophiasocal68 Жыл бұрын

@desertdog185 I guess it's about perspective. There are people who's dream job is to FO any turbine jet much less an A320

@desertdog185 Жыл бұрын

@@sophiasocal68 Of course. Believe me. I was there. But once you get your dream job flying right seat in a domestic narrow body, shooting 4 or 5 approaches a day, absolutely no stays with that when they can earn quadruple and work half as much. If you go to some place like Alaska, Southwest, or, god forbid, Spirit, your only choice to move up is to quit. I vividly remember my “dream job” at 27 flying a 737. It was absolutely wonderful for an energetic kid with no bills. That was almost 4 decades ago and there’s no way in hell I would could do that now.

@sophiasocal68 Жыл бұрын

@@desertdog185 life does have a way of happening doesn't it? I no longer count the years, I count the decades. I'm nearing the end of my working life and focusing on what matters most to me: Piece of mind and tranquility.

@banditdarval9401 Жыл бұрын

You'd be much better off without all the BS & get to the point!

@cesar.arrano Жыл бұрын

Let's be realistic, airlines don't hire 45-50 year olds with low hours. Why would they? There are other pilots at that same age with over 5.000 hours and years of experience.

@AviationCareersPodcast Жыл бұрын

The airlines in the US are hiring pilots of all ages at the minimum number of hours required for the ATP/RATP. The pilots I work with who are of the same age and with over 5000 hours are many times working in other industries because they have decided to not continue their careers as airline pilots. Some are coming back to the industry and others have decided to pursue other careers.

@pilotmike5 Жыл бұрын

here comes the IMC

@christenemoore7343 Жыл бұрын

I'm see a lot of pilot jobs regardless of age. As long as you have the hours, they hiring. Many with fat bonuses too.