Matt Farren's Fast Track to the Majors

[@elioavila8456]

As a 36 year old about the take a PPL check ride trying to make it to the airlines this is very motivating. Thank you

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@davidmangold1838]

Matt was a relevant guy to interview. We’ll done Trent and Matt. Attaining an airline pilot job is all about having passion. All else will fall into place, if one doesn’t give up. I had a 40 year major airline career. Stayed until my 65th birthday. I’m an old dad; my son is 19, and saw my career during his life-and heard stories back to when I started. He operates a crane on a barge, doing seawall work and docks at homes and marinas. He’s now thinking he wants to replicate my career. He’s not one who wants to go to college. Today, it’s helpful but not required. I’m not sure he has the required passion, but at least he should get his private. As for part 61, that seems the best way nowadays. I’d be willing and able to plunk down 30 to 100k, for him to do it. If he started now, by 23 he could get the dream job! For me, legacy airlines was the epitome. But, LCC’s and others can be a good individual’s choice. IMHO, corporate jet jobs can be good, but 40 years of that flying would be too much work.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

David….Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@christianlogsdon6483]

Thanks for this video Trent. Feel like I relate to this guy so well. 33, house, kids, hate what I do, etc. 19 hours into my ppl hoping to eventually make the career change and it’s encouraging to see a guy in my same boat that did it all while paying the mortgage and not taking out a $100k loan at 15%

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Christian…Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@troy_kinsey]

What an excellent interview. I'm going to forward it to friends on the fence about pursuing the pro pilot life. I was a longtime TV news reporter and flew recreationally (while dabbling in contract flying and instructing) for eight years before pulling the trigger in 2021 and going airline. After a couple years flying for a regional, I'm now a 737 driver at United and absolutely love it. Matt is correct that this industry is all about timing, and while I doubt we'll ever see hiring years like 2022-23 again, I think the water will remain relatively warm through the end of the decade - my seniority progression depends on it! To be sure, the job carries some unique stressors and is definitely not for everyone, but to Matt's point, there's no better feeling than closing your flight bag and leaving any and all work-related obligations behind!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Troy…Thanks for sharing your thoughtful comment with the community!

[@captainjay3604]

Hey, I hired that guy!

[@mbflyin]

Ayyyyy hope I haven’t let you down! 🤣

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🤣🙌🙌🙌

[@Dstovall_001]

@@mbflyinthanks for sharing your story. I have been struggling with if I am too old and not wanting to negatively impact my family. We are the same age and you have me convinced now’s the time. I received my private when I was 17 then life happened. Now to get back at it. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@mbflyin]

@@Dstovall_001 good luck!

[@bsdontop1000]

I'll be looking here in 18 months 😉

[@ahmedaydoner7915]

Awesome video! This one speaks to my soul. I’m in real estate and mortgages currently and know that feeling all too well, being at Disney but not being the present father and husband you want to be. Always tied to the phone and email is taxing. I listened to this video twice so far and after I dropped my son off at school this morning I went to Albert Whitted and spoke with the flight school. I even ran into one of Matt’s former students and he said he’s working as a CFI there until his class with Frontier starts at the end of this year. This video seems like one of the most “Real” interviews I’ve listened to on KZbin in terms of taking it from start to finish. Thank you Trent and Matt for being the reason I decided to take action today 💪🏽

[@mbflyin]

That’s awesome! Sounds like you spoke to Josh, he’s a great guy and one of my favorite students. 🤙

[@ahmedaydoner7915]

@@mbflyin yes sir! Josh was awesome to chat with. The whole atmosphere of the flight school there seems to be top notch. I’m taking my wife and kids to The Hanger tonight for dinner to be back in the area and watch some planes ✈️

[@trent_dyrsmid]

So glad we could help! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@ahmedaydoner7915]

@@trent_dyrsmid thanks for always creating such valuable content!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌

[@essel23fly]

At the end of the day this industry is completely all about timing. There’s plenty of highly experienced nice guys that couldn’t get a major/legacy job during the last recession and plenty of very little experienced pilots that are high on some Legacy’s seniority right now because they were available at the right time of the hiring wave. If you are on the outside looking in expecting it to turn out the same for you, it’s already too late. I’m finally at a major with finally great pay and seniority, but it was a much harder road than the young guys coming in the last 5 years, all because of when I started my journey. All you can do is start your journey and hope for the best. The industry is still very rewarding it almost doesn’t matter what path you take.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Agreed! Thanks for sharing your experience with the community!

[@ACK88]

Thank you for the inspiring episodes! I'm 35, working full time and am just starting my journey towards becoming a commercial pilot. I'm scheduling my 1st class medical for later this month and my first flight lesson is at the end of the month. I can't wait! It's going to be a lot of hard work, but its going to be worth it in the end. Episodes like this really help make my vision feel closer to a reality. Thanks guys!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad to hear it!

[@eduardogrillo3829]

These types of contents are fantastic! Im Brazilian who moved to the U.S. on my 30’s leaving behind a 12year career. Now after 8 years living in U.S., I am about to quit my very well stable job to adventure in the airlines. I got my PPL in 2019, IRA in 2020 and commercial single/multi in 2022. I purchased my little 150 last year and now just building my hours. I wish I had the nerves to just pursue the CFI route like you’re doing.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Eduardo… Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@thonyferdinand4865]

Trent, Matt thank you so much for this interview! Working on my PPL down here in Atlanta with a steady plan to be a Career Pilot in the next 3-5 Years. This interview was continued motivation to keep my eyes on the prize 🏆! Thank You again Trent for this platform, and Thank You Matt for your story. See y’all in the Flight Deck! Best, Thony

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thony….you’re welcome! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@dimanest3245]

your videos are the reason that i have finally went after my dream! thanks

[@trent_dyrsmid]

That's awesome!

[@axeldiaz-gutierrez5264]

Thank you so much Matt and Trent for this awesome informative video. Currently I am working full time at Boeing as an Engineer and flight training after work progressively seeking a career change. The idea you guys mentioned of sticking to it no matter if it’ll take longer than you want for a more rewarding career resonated with me. Thanks for the inspiration to continue with my busy life style to achieve a child hood dream. Best wishes to you guys

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Alex….Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@thatpilotben]

@axeldiaz-gutierrez5264 Your comment caught my attention. I currently have a final interview with Boeing this week for an IT position. Are you using the LTP benefits for your flight training? Would love to hear about it if you are

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@briang4662]

I worked along side Matt in our CFI days, great pilot and even better instructor!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌🙌

[@mbflyin]

Likewise Brian!!! Hope you’re doing well!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@jovanniii_]

Currently an Active Duty Loadmaster on C-17’s in Hickam AFB, Hawaii. I'm preparing to separate and start my airline journey by doing a 6 month Skillbridge program with a flight school in Florida! Not sure if you know about this program Trent but it is great for military service members separating/retiring. I see a ton of C-17 pilots separate and transition into Delta, Southwest, United, and Hawaiian with ease. Their advice has been great, but this video helped me so much since I can relate to Matt’s situation much more! Mahalo Trent and Matt! P.S. I'm sure you have other military service members who watch your videos Trent. If you ever want to make a video about some of the benefits the military offers for people wanting to pursue aviation. Let me know!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks for the share. I’d love to do a video like that. Present DM me on IG.

[@VoxOptimatium]

Trent, your extraordinary interview and active listening skills coupled with Matt's sterling character and generous nature made this one of the finest -- if not thee finest -- aviation videos I've ever watched. Well done!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Wow…thanks for that!!

[@jacobgoulding]

This was one of the best videos yet. Wish he dug a bit deeper on his reasoning for choosing Frontier vs the legacy carriers as I can relate being 34 yrs old with a 1yr old at home and baby #2 on the way. Would be a great topic for future video to cover the quality of life at legacy vs low cost carriers/ regionals and how that may also compare compensation wise.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Jacob….thx for watching. I’ll keep that in mind!

[@alexanderordinary2110]

He did say quality of life, worklife balance etc. Thats reason enough for a lot of people. Salary? Simple. They all start at the same level, pretty much. The difference is that the legacies have the jumbo jets. The math is very simple; the bigger the plane, the bigger the paycheck. That is why those seniors at American and United are making as much 600k/year, which you will never make charging around the sky with 150 or so passengers behind you. Therfore, after a 30 year career, the legacy guys would have made a few millions more, than the rest of them.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌

[@DRich17]

I was looking to see if anyone else mentioned this in the comments and if he responded. I'd like to hear what he has to say because every now and then someone offers a unique perspective that most of us don't think of or weigh as heavy on our 'pros vs cons' scale.

[@cb32a]

@@DRich17 convenience is a big factor. My nephew is in his early 20s and at Frontier... he could have gone anywhere (if he waited it out flying a plane w/76 seats), but the convenience factor was key. Like Matt stated, he's moving up the seniority route quickly and ~500 senior pilots have moved on (most likely to bigger planes/airlines) in the prior ~14 mos.

[@jessicahuynh2116]

Thank you so much for this video. I can see myself in his shoes. I’ve always wanted to fly, never thought I could. Air Force grandpa and my dad is an ap mechanic. Hoping to start next year. 31, married, supportive spouse, 1.5 year ago child. I toured a flight school in Long Beach and the owner spent so much time with me, even took my then, 9 month old, to check out planes and toured the school. Just when the dream seems so far away, I see this video with someone I really can relate to.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Jessica… thank you so much for watching and sharing a little bit about your story. I’m excited to hear about your goals and progress!

[@cb32a]

Thank you, Trent & Matt! One thing Matt shared, and I often forget, is that commercial airline pilots can pick up extra trips (each month) to pay for student loans. I also know some commercial pilots work (local - near their home) on their 'days off' as an instructor.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Great tip!

[@FunInOklahoma]

Thanks for sharing, this has helped solidify me finishing. I got my commercial and instrument. I am working on my CFI now.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

That’s fantastic!

[@VoluntaryPlanet]

Same here!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌✈️

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@shockwavegaming1376]

So eager to get started. Still struggling to get the money together and complete work for my current customers though. Praying for the right time. 🙏

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You got this!

[@Air_ilic]

I signed up with atp flight school and already put a deposit but after watching this I’m seriously considering another school. Even if I miss out on 3k , I’ll be saving much more it seems like..

[@BRC332]

141 vs 61 is different for every single person. Some people thrive in a structured classroom with a set syllabus. Some people thrive with 1 on 1 with a flexible schedule. Only you know what’s best for you.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

My best advice is to think carefully about timeline vs cost because if you spend a little extra to go a lot faster, it is still worth it because you get to the airline salary that much sooner.

[@mbflyin]

How’s it going man, this is Matt. Like what Trent and BRC mentioned there are a lot of factors to consider. If your schedule allows for the intense structure with daily classroom/flying on a schedule made for you and you are in a financial position where you have to finance then ATP could be a good fit. Especially if you’re open to moving for the CFI job they will set you up with. They guarantee a CFI job but not the location, could be anywhere. If you have the financial means to pay for training Part 61 is the way to go. The flying is more fun, you make your own schedule which can be faster than ATP many times. You can schedule around life, and it’s way less expensive. Also something I’ve found is ATP takes the romance out of aviation. You can’t rent a plane to take your family or friends on a sunset cruise, or rent a a plane for a weekend get away somewhere awesome. It’s strictly business.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@jakepfarr1]

Thank you for making this content! Super helpful to 2.0 guys like myself!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@timthepilot-c4]

Trent and Matt good stuff. Listen up young men and women, if you want it suck it up and go get it. Grind it out.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌🙌

[@CameronCold]

Thanks Trent and Matt! I've been watching your channel for about the past 4 months. I gave up on the dream of flying for a long time and your videos helped push me to start flight lessons. I logged my second flight lesson this week!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Cameron…that’s so cool to hear! Keep going!

[@mbflyin]

Life happens. The more stories I hear from others the more I hear my own story. Hardest part is committing to doing it and taking that “leap of faith”, funny how things fall in place after that. Good luck!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️🙌

[@FlyWithFitz81]

Awesome story. I am looking to start training at the Dutch Airline Transavia at about 100 Hours (at 20 now) and then hopefully graduate to a full-time position in the next 2 years. This video is a great source of motivation as well as being great advice for us newbies. Great interview, thanks.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You’re welcome! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@spdrcr1010]

Advice that I think is helping me: when in your initial training, practice professionally. Simple things like always running checklists, and elimination of superfluous words in radio calls. My friend said the extra wording was hard to un-train when going to airlines

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Agree!

[@mbflyin]

💯. Best approach to radio calls is the “other” KISS approach. Keep it stupid simple.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@drewcollins4533]

Just happy to see you're doing well for yourself trent.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx Drew!

[@BRC332]

Shout out to Danielle at St Pete air. Very excellent mom and pop flight school!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@mbflyin]

She’s the GOAT!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌✈️

[@southwest82]

Great interview. After 2 years I finally got my Class 1 yesterday amd am looking forward to driving forward. Trent, do you offer "career coaching" sessions or something similar?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I do not, but the guys over at the Pro Pilot Playbook do.

[@PghGameFix]

FYI.... a couple of the local CFI's I know got in with local charters... well under the 1500 ATP time.... and they are starting at 6 figures. So, they are getting regional pay with charter now. I'm planning the CFI route.... but if something local pop's up.... I'm jumping on it.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I would encourage you to think very carefully about that. Most charter pilots log significantly fewer hours than a busy CFI, which means that if you’re ultimate goal is the airlines, you were gonna take a lot longer to get there.

[@angelojoseph6900]

Took my Discovery Flight a couple of weeks ago. Loved it. Spoke to a former CFI at the school and told him that I would pursue my Commercial but that I thought it was “too late”. He mentioned people in their mid-50s that are flying for the majors. That put a 🔥under my feet to accomplish my goal of flying cargo or for an airline. Great interview!!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx!!

[@CJWillyCreates]

More great content! Starting my journey next month! My plan is 2 years from 0 to airlines. Let's see if I can catch up!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’m rooting for your success :)

[@matt-hew69]

Im in the same boat. 33, kids, house, job that pays the bills but every day there is the feeling i should be doing something....more.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@BobbyGeneric145]

I had a lot of FOs who were 2nd career guys. One guy was 60! He sold his accounting business for a pile of money, always wanted to be an airline pilot... He already had a thousand hours as a private, so he got the rest of his ratings at atp and within 6 months was at Endeavor flying a trip with me! Didn't even need the paycheck, just having his fun!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Love it!

[@stevethebeve]

Great interview! Just finished commercial myself, onto the CFI life

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Good luck!!

[@afflictionu8311]

Thank you for the comprehensive interview Trent. Matt was great. Just started working on my CFI. I've got two check ride busts...but I'll have my degree soon. I'm terrified how the failures will affect my career prospects as I prepare to take the hardest check ride I've taken so far... Thank you for all of the great information! Subscribed!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@mbflyin]

I have peers with multiple failures. As long as you show progression and willingness to learn from/correct those issues then usually it’s ok. 2 is kind of the soft limit, with 2 failures your file/intervjew eval will go before a hiring board. Best thing to do during the interview is own it, take responsibility, don’t make excuses or blame shift. That approach is best when striving for a positive outcome.

[@afflictionu8311]

@@mbflyin Thank you for the encouragement! You’re an inspiration and I’m not giving up. My wife and I have really been looking at Frontier as a long term destination and I was concerned how the failures might affect my odds of getting hired there. For context, both busts came from the same examiner. IFR on the ground at the end of the oral on a fuel recalculation/diversion scenario, and on Commercial multi I landed about 200 feet long on the final short field landing :(

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@TODDENIFY]

Trent, that was a great episode! Do you know, or can you ask Matt, when and if Frontier plans to open back up their Rotor Transition Program? I have had an RTP application in with them for a year now and would love to work at Frontier!! They are my dream airline to work for!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

@mbflyin what say you?

[@mbflyin]

How it going Todd, currently Frontier has a really deep new hire pilot pool. I’ve heard we have anywhere between 900 and 1300 pilots in the pool waiting for dates. They’ve also pushed back some new hire classes. My guess would be once the other majors and legacies start hiring again, we will start losing folks and they will crank up training again. RTAG was wildly successful for Frontier. The FO who was leading/ mentoring it has moved on, but I expect they will bring it back.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@acnva]

Wow! I started with PPL back in August of last year and with all the videos I've been watching and research I've been doing, it never occurred to me that all you need is PPL, CFI, and Commercial to get to the airlines. What about multi-engine? Surely, you gotta have that!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You do.

[@mbflyin]

You need a multi commercial rating. Most only require 25 hours.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@bt4prophet]

Once, again another solid interview from Trent. Matt was clear and concise with his experiences and response ~ cool guy! Just curious @Trent, do you know what flight school he went to?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

stpeteair.org/

[@mbflyin]

This is Matt, I appreciate the compliment!! I went to St Pete Air at Albert Whitted Airport in downtown St Petersburg Florida. Trent posted a link above.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@tunuitorres-borabora2107]

This was a great interview. I’m 33 years old and currently in a career that I enjoy but takes a lot of time away from family. I’m looking at starting my PPL and working towards the airlines. Scary to leave the comfort of a six figure income.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’m rooting for your success :)

[@canismajorbeats]

Smart guy

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌 thx!

[@johnmejia1788]

Thanks a lot for the interview Trent! Valuable information as always. Will you mind sharing the name of the school in St Pete Matt went to? I am 50 years old career changed guy working currently on my PPL. I have been inspired by your story. I live in the Tampa bay area and I am looking for a part 61 school in the St Pete area. Thanks a million again.

[@johnmejia1788]

Matt thanks for sharing your story and for your wise advice. Best of luck for you both in your career.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’ll let Matt answer that.

[@jeffreyblanding2623]

I would also like the name of the school; I live in Clearwater ... Or Matt can contact me Directly. Great information!!

[@slamandgo]

It’s st pete air. Heard good things but rates are not cheap any more

[@jeffreyblanding2623]

@@slamandgo Matt hasn't said to any of us, yet, which airport he did all his training at, and his CFI work for ...

[@Andrew-ry5sx]

What an awesome interview. Thank you for this.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@liveextreme0317]

I hope to be on your podcast one day. I'm 40+ just started flying. Sold my FedEx business, Retired USMC & Retired P.O. currently going to small Part 61 non-stop. See you soon!!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Wishing you all the best!!

[@BobbyGeneric145]

See my comment above... I had an fo who was exactly like you. Sold his business at 60 for a mint, 6 months later was in the right seat of an Endeavor crj having the time of his life. He'd already had a thousand hours as a private airplane owner over the years too.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌🙌

[@BobbyGeneric145]

@@trent_dyrsmid how did your b6 interview go?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

B6?

[@jsisson]

This was absolutely helpful! He’s put a lot in perspective for me! Flying is so challenging, yet so much fun! In Matt’s same shoes, I hate that being in real estate makes my phone a constant! I enjoy the solitude of the cockpit! Thanks for solidifying my decision!! The part 61 financing route was 20% interest for me with a 23k finance charge up front! Talk about predatory lending.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad to hear that you enjoyed the interview. Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment!

[@mbflyin]

It is extremely freeing. The best part is when you’re not working, you are not working. Yikes on that interest rate, I think since there is nothing tangible for the bank to hold as collateral, it’s considered extra risk so they crank the rates up. Do you have any cars that are paid off or that have a bunch of equity in that you could take a loan out against for a lower rate?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@michael_viteritti]

Very informative interview, thanks to both :D

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Our pleasure!

[@keithmancinelli3170]

Great video, thanks for these interviews! And thank you, Matt, that was a good motivation to get things going.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lewisblake973]

In my opinion, there will always be a demand for airline pilots. There are very few people who have the passion, fearlessness, intelligence, hand-eye coordination, perfect eyesight, and finances it takes to become a commercial pilot.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

👍🙌

[@aaronacree3941]

Matt, what lifestyle differences do you see between Frontier and the legacy carriers? Could you provide some more details? I’m starting my PPL this summer and quality of life will be a big factor for me when I get to that point. Also, I’m probably one of the few people who love that Frontier just opened Cleveland because it’s the only nonstop from SLC haha! Great video! Love the long form conversations

[@mbflyin]

Great question. I made the career switch to have more family quality time. An important part of that is having the most control of my time. Not commuting for work makes it an entirely different job from a quality of life/time standpoint. I love where I live in SW Florida, Frontier has 3 bases within a 3 hour drive. Tampa where I’m based is 50 minutes away. Orlando is under 2 hours. Miami is 3 if I really want to pick up a trip and drive that far. Additionally, my seniority has skyrocketed at Frontier. 16 months there and I’ve never missed holiday/birthday/wedding/birth etc. I can get weekends off, have the flexibility to drop/swap/trade/add flights to fit my lifestyle/family schedule. That’s not easy to do at legacies without years and years or even decades of seniority. Finally, frontier has many day turns and 2 day trips. This means I’m sleeping in my bed majority of the month. I love that.

[@mbflyin]

There is something in the industry called “AIDS”, Aviation Induced Divorce Syndrome. Being gone 3-4 days at a time and not getting off days you need for important family events is hard on a marriage and family. With the exception of my first two months on the line with Frontier where I was based in Phoenix and Miami, that’s been a non issue. I have friends who have been at legacies for 8+ years who still struggle with this for their families. I wanted that freedom sooner than later, didn’t want to kick that can down the road 10 years later for what I can have now just for the legacy uniform. I’m 37, that’s too much to sacrifice for the family. Finally, based in Tampa. 90% of my flying is north south in the same time zone. From a body clock standpoint that is amazing. Not living life chronically fatigued with needed days to readjust after trips.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@dank.1874]

Wow! Fantastic vid! Hold off on getting the Multi Engine until after CFI. Just focus on getting CFI. And wait and hold out on the CFII and MEI. Love it. Damn I wish I had this explained to me years ago. Just wow.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx, glad you found it helpful….albeit late!

[@Xanthira222]

I am also in my mid 30's. I am going to have to carve out a schedule and work full time (50 hours+) fly whenever I can. It sucks I cant do my flight training full time, but the alternative being not doing it at all just isn't an option in my mind.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Something is better than nothing!

[@benh2134]

Great interview fellas! Just one question though... is the really round? Lol. Just kidding. Love it guys. I can totally relate. I'm in beginning stages myself - Just left my 6 figure job to purse flying. Love your mindset Matt. Thanks once again Trent. Ben.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Ben….Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@mbflyin]

Ha! It’s called the atmosphere instead of the atmosflat for a reason. Have fun in training!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@joshuab1707]

Inspiring. Thanks for sharing your story

[@trent_dyrsmid]

My pleasure!

[@travismartin936]

Inspiring interview!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad you liked it, thanks for watching!

[@joelpaolo2363]

@mbflyin Thank you for sharing your experience. What was the training school you went to in the St. Pete area? I am looking to do a discovery flight and talk to some of the students on their experience at the school.

[@mbflyin]

St Pete Air at Albert Whitted. Highly recommend. 🤙

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@Dstovall_001]

This was a great video to watch and resonate with. I too am looking at making a career change. Hearing Matt’s story was like looking into a mirror as it is very similar to mine. Received my private when I was 17 and then life happened now I am burnt out with current career and just wanting something different. Thanks for putting this on and sharing!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You bet!

[@Hellfytr77]

This video was great! I have been going back and forth a lot about becoming a pilot. I am 44 now and have a great job but I have wanted to fly jets since I was a kid. I have talked myself out of it because of the cost. I have also assumed that it would take me about ten years to make what I am making now and that just seems foolish almost. I always thought that doing an accelerated program would be the best since most of them have a relationship with the regional airlines but $100,000 is just a ton of money. Maybe I just need to rethink my pilot journey and do things differently. It was really encouraging to hear about how fast you can get to the majors. Thanks again for the insight and different perspective on how to go about becoming a pilot. I feel very encouraged.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@mbflyin]

How it going man, this is Matt. Awesome news is even if it took you 5 years to get to an airline, you’d still have a 16 year airline career. Every major airline pays 15% plus into your 401k. It’s not a match, it’s paid in full to the airline. 10 years of $100k to $350k+ at 15%+ paid by the company into your 401k ads up big time! Something to consider. Things are little different at most regionals. They do a standard match.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@ZacharyArnold-c3l]

Love the video. I am also in St. Pete and looking for a flight school. what was the name of the one at Albert Whitted that you attended

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I texted Matt and asked him to reply.

[@mbflyin]

How’s it going man, the school is St Pete Air. Highly highly recommend. Tell Danielle that Matt sent you. 🤙

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@eddiecrainic7735]

Thanks you two for the advice at the very end about the cfi ratings and of course for the rest of the video. I *finally* got my 1st class medical after being in review for a long time and I’m about to do an all out sprint!! Yee haw!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Congrats!!

[@Timemachine429]

What a great story god bless your channel Trent

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@jeffchapman8992]

Awesome guest/interview Trent. CFI ... I need a game plan starting with a school.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!

[@Godsgirl818]

I’m 33 and I want to make the career change to being a Pilot. My age doesn’t scare me it’s just the financial part. Coming up with that type of money for the training without it taking me ages to complete

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@bannoneldridge9269]

Ironic I’m seeing this “tree” days after it was posted. I’m 43 and seriously considering changing careers. I have my PPL and about a month back renewed my IFR training. I have 113 hours total and should do my check ride in about 2 months. I work 14 days on and 14 days off in my current career. Doing Part 61. This video was really good timing and helps solidify that this isn’t a hare brained idea. I have friends at the majors so I’m not totally alone in this. I’m on the west side of DFW so anyone around there looking to share time hit me up. 😊

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@VoluntaryPlanet]

Fantastic and motivating video. Thank you!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You are so welcome!

[@russellpatterson6238]

I am 52, here in Canada, and also seeking to get into an airline for the first time. Fortunately I have 2,000 hours and recently gained my ATPL. Hopefully I get a call soon.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Fingers crossed for you!

[@henryguerrero5971]

I’m actually taking equity from my house. Back in 2005 my parents bought the house for 50k. Today the house is worth 250k. I believe it’s a good idea, I’m getting 100k around 7% interest while the other student finance companies were charging me 17% , which is crazy. Yes I’m putting my house in risk but like you guys said it’s 3-4 years of discomfort. I believe to pay it off soon and the best rewards in life have a little risk to it. I’ll be having the job of my life and be happy which is better than sticking to my current job. I’ll be starting my flight school on the 30th aid this month!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I completely agree with your approach.

[@GenXPatriots]

Trent, great videos. I have been sending friends your videos because the information you have been putting out is more relevant than when I started. It sounds like you are hitting your hours quickly and a reel I watched today said you expect to have ATP mins by summer. That’s incredible. My question is, how does that effect your relationship with students knowing you might not be there to finish their rating. I have no doubt you are an incredible instructor that takes the job seriously and intently, even though you are using it to time build. This is something I ran into a little as an instructor but I was at a flight school that I could work with other instructors to pass them along when I left.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I tell them all before they arrive that my days are numbered and that I’ll refer them to another instructor when I’m finished. They all seem fine with that.

[@michaelsmith5463]

Super Kewl interview...hit alot of important topics

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌🙌

[@romoeas]

Did Matt get all 1500 hrs doing cfi in single engine piston? Did Republic hire him with zero turboprop or turbine time? Do other airlines do that as well?

[@romoeas]

@mbflyin

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@mbflyin]

Had zero turbine or jet time. Had my 1500 hours, 27 of which were multi engine piston. Of course had all my ATP requirements regarding night/crosscountry etc.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@TheOrderTheWay]

Awesome information!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chrisgfit]

Awesome interview thank you both for the information!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Musiqman76]

Excellent interview, thank you! Love these.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You’re welcome! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@schylerelkins6057]

This is awesome. I can relate to this guy. Seems like an average Joe who went for it and made it!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Right?!

[@206caroful]

This video is amazing! Thanks for sharing your experiences 🙏

[@trent_dyrsmid]

My pleasure! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@pkitfox]

Do light sport airctaft have any place in this? CFIS, Sport Pilot Instructor, can be had with low hours without a Private or Sport Pilot License. I own a light sport, and am thinking for my son who is 20 years old. I need to learn how to make it possible to rent my plane without going broke. 45 years ago, when I owned a Cessna 172, I ask an old FBO and flight school owner to explain what a leaseback is. He said "That's where you pay me to wear out your airplane".

[@trent_dyrsmid]

@@pkitfox That would be a good question for Pilot Kaity. From Zero to ATP for Under $35,000 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmLOXqNpl9CLe8k

[@olivereduardo9674]

Can you share the name of the school you attended to do it at that price? I believe that regardless of how much it’s gone up since 2019, it should not be anywhere near 108k as ATP offers it. Calculating interests + debt stress, that goes up to about 200k+ not to mention all of the fees as well.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

@@olivereduardo9674 Thanks for watching! The school that I attended does not want me sharing their name on my social media because every time I do their phone explodes. They have no interest in training private pilots. The only thing that they really want to do is provide accelerated training for CFI and multi engine ratings. So…to help my viewers find a school that does want to train private pilots, I’ve just formed a partnership with a terrific school in Arizona. You can watch a video about it here flywithtrent.com/flight-training-in-mesa/

[@thomascook5788]

Thanks for the video Trent! All the best...

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thx Thomas!

[@supernemo7057]

thanks for the video！❤

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You're welcome 😊

[@Godsgirl818]

He said you can stop at your CFI, what do you actually need for the airlines. Like what can you stop at to be hired at an airline?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You need an ATP to be hired. How you get to that point is up to you.

[@odkonyamjav4219]

Thank you inspiring ❤

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You are so welcome!

[@odkonyamjav4219]

@@trent_dyrsmid “Your channel is the most realistic and applicable to my training. Thank you for your time and effort in making it genuine and honest. I’ve watched other channels, but yours stands out.”

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Thank you!!

[@tkondobby]

Does FedEx or the equivalent cargo operations, perhaps part 135 opportunities even exist in the UK? Thanks

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🤷‍♂️

[@zachprofitPSF]

Excellent video! I gave myself 5 years to do the exact same thing. Start PPL training in June!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

That is awesome! Blue skies ahead!

[@luisvaldez9397]

Hi Matt is there a way to know what was the name of the school he attended?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’ll let Matt answer that one.

[@mbflyin]

St Pete Air at Albert Whitted Airport. Great School!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@taylormills08]

Thanks so so much for the content you’re putting together. I have a dream of becoming a private pilot. May even consider flying commercial if I can land a local position. Just turned 34. Financially stable to cover my hours to pursue my PPL through private lessons. I’m joining Civil Air Patrol and I hope to eventually serve as a pilot. Once I get my hours and PPL the CAP members said I can log hours with them at no cost. Curious if this option is on anyone else’s radar? What might be a negative to that route? Seems too good to be true? It might take more time that way. Although I’m happily self employed so I’ll just be adding this new career into my regular work load. Not able or willing to drop my current career altogether. Your insight would be greatly appreciated. I hope I shared enough details. All the Best!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I actually joined the Civil Air Patrol myself, but never ended up getting mission qualified. I quickly realized that thanks to all of the students I have, it made no sense to go fly Civil Air Patrol missions when I could instead be flying with a student that would be paying me.

[@alexanderordinary2110]

The max and the Pratt issues have slowed things waaay down, with no improvement in sight for a while. The pratt issues have even caused some airlines to almost go bankrupt. Will be intersting to see how things will pan out over the next few years......

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Yep.

[@KRJ-dg8cn]

Good info...Thanks Brother...

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You’re welcome!

[@jeremy-gu8xg]

Trent and Matt, thank you! Great interview and super helpful. I'm in a very similar situation from a career perspective and I am ready to make the change. I have my PPL and working on the Instrument rating. I'm not targeting an airline career and I'm learning all the time about other career options. (you don't know what you don't know...) Would you do anything differently if you weren't working to move up to an airline career?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Being as I’m not yet at the airlines, I will have to defer to Matt on that one. Thank you for watching!

[@thumpertorque_]

Very informative video. Just to clear out some things, since I don’t have to get the CFII and MEI, if I’m on a budget, how many total ratings are mandatory and what are they? I can think of PPL, instruments, commercial, CFI. Am I missing something?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

If you want to be an instructor, the CFI is enough. The CFII is optional.

[@thumpertorque_]

@@trent_dyrsmid To be an airline pilot do I need the II and MEI?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

No. You just need an ATP and a class 1 med.

[@thumpertorque_]

@@trent_dyrsmid Okay, thank you.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@DownwiththeGOP]

Love your content man. Quick question: I have heard 1500 hours a few times. But I have seen some companies only requiring 750. Do you know more about this ?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

If you want to fly for a part 121 airline or cargo company, you need to have an ATP rating and that requires a minimum of 1500.

[@DownwiththeGOP]

@@trent_dyrsmidthank you for the answer. One more question. I had a bankruptcy a few years ago, would that effect the hiring process at all?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

No I don’t think so.

[@ethanburgess7855]

Great video sir. I’ve been looking at job openings at the legacy airlines and they recommend you have a degree but it is not required. I’m looking to start flight school in the next month so what can you teach me about the essential certifications and Licenses major airlines want?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Watch my videos :)

[@packman579]

How long do you have to stay at a regional airlines to get to the major airlines?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

There is no stated minimum amount of time and that would depend upon a huge variety of factors.

[@russellriggins3893]

Great video guys. Question, does flight instructing for an airline (airline sims) count towards the 1500 hours? Very unique situation, not for everyone. But many airlines are short sim instructors too, and I'm told you only need a Commercial license to become an airline sim instructor. But again, not sure if those hours count towards the 1500 for ATP. Thx

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I’m not sure either.

[@alexalikhasi2859]

Hey Trent , as a student pilot with over 100 hours logged, I’ve encountered some roadblocks in my training. Despite being soloed, I’m still struggling with maneuvers, particularly crosswind landings. My new instructor, who’s of ATP quality, has a different teaching approach, which has been challenging for me. He even suggested that maybe aviation isn’t for everyone. I’m feeling discouraged and considering quitting. Do you have any advice or encouragement for me? I’d greatly appreciate any ideas or insights you might have!

[@BRC332]

Most people I know get PPL around 50hrs. So at 100, yes that is a little eye brow raising. But with that said, I wanted to quit around 10 hours. I had a dirtbag instructor. Then one day I saw a different instructor randomly and asked if I could go up once with him. After that- I switched to the new guy! So I’d suggest trying 2-3 different instructors. Or, maybe a new school entirely. Also, mzeroa has some good short vids on crosswind landings.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

I agree with Matt that you should try multiple instructors before you consider quitting.

[@Teplik_]

I have a question for you is it possible to go to two separate schools at a time for exemple flying on plane in one and going on simulator on another?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

@@Teplik_ sure, you can do anything that your wallet will allow.

[@intwist]

Quick question guys: is a college degree needed to get into the airlines? I cannot find a clear answer on this during my research. Some say yes, others say no - going to schedule my class 1 medical as soon as I have my plan sorted. Thanks in adncance and great content! 👍

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Not at this point in time. I do not have a college degree and I just got hired.

[@carlvanwy8195]

Great Video. What is your friend’s flight school in Dallas?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

St. Pete Air [phone]

[@SepOn35]

Matt, Any advice on how to do it with 2 little ones? Me and the wife can't seem to wrap our heads around it 😅. Thanks for another great interview Trent.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

You’re welcome! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@mbflyin]

How’s it going man, this is Matt. A super hero wife! 🤣 It was a challenge. Thankfully didn’t have to worry about daycare expenses until later, but unfortunately much of the burden falls on the spouse especially for the 2-3 months you’re gone for airline training. I made it a point to do what I could to make life easier for the Mrs’s when I was home. I wasn’t working while training so ultimately I was home a ton, the wife loved it coming off a sales job when I was in the office every weekend. Another nice think about the part 61 route is you get to choose your schedule. You can schedule around life as needed or wanted.

[@SepOn35]

@@mbflyin thanks a lot for the response. This info helps a lot! We are going to figure this out and hopefully get through this some day.

[@trent_dyrsmid]

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[@trent_dyrsmid]

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[@williamhsteele]

This was awesome to listen to. I literally just got my first class medical yesterday through Penn medicine In Philadelphia. I’m currently in the stage where I’m trying to get answers from flight schools in my area. I’m in north eastern Maryland. The one school that got back to me is First Class Flight Academy In Middle River Maryland. Not sure if anyone has any experience with them?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Hopefully someone will chime in. Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!

[@williamhsteele]

@@trent_dyrsmid thank you sir!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

🙌

[@georgesmith7988]

Great interview, how many hours does Matt have now. What kind of aircraft does he fly?

[@mbflyin]

Hello George, currently have right at 2250 hours and fly the Airbus A320/321neo. It’s a great airplane. Flew the Embraer 175 prior.

[@georgesmith7988]

@@mbflyin congratulations on all your accomplishments

[@dalmarbashir]

@@mbflyin HEY You ever Flown with Joey Miuccio? Hes a Frontier Pilot that has a youtube channel of his name

[@trent_dyrsmid]

✈️

[@jeffreyblanding2623]

​@@mbflyin I live in Clearwater, and know Albert Whitted. Was St. Pete Air your school ?

[@Alex-vm2ne]

Awesome video as always Mr Trent, so I’ve got a question about logging flight hours for aspiring pilots. If someone is not a Certified Flight Instructor but acts as a safety pilot alongside another pilot, both holding at least a Private Pilot License (PPL), can they log those hours towards the 1,500 hours required by airlines? If so, how many hours do airlines typically accept, and is it a confusing process to navigate? I’ve heard differing opinions on this and would love to hear your insights or experiences on the matter. Thanks in advance for your input!

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Yes a safety pilot with a PPL can log PIC when the other pilot is wearing goggles. You need to get to 1500 hours to get an ATP.

[@logananderson9186]

Thank you for what you are doing! Do you think online ground school is worth it?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Yes, definitely!

[@logananderson9186]

I’ve looked at a few. Do you have any suggestions?

[@trent_dyrsmid]

Gold Seal. There’s a link on my website.