WHY I LEFT ATP / WEEK 6 VLOG

[@jmonk96]

I dodged a bullet going to ATP. I was supposed to start March of 2020 but with the uncertainty of the time, I cancelled my class date. A year passed and I found a wonderful mom and pop flight school and was able to get all my ratings for significantly less money, while making tons of friends and actually feeling like I was part of a family. Now I’m a First Officer at a regional airline and loving it. I will always advocate for the smaller flight schools.

[@JTBayArea]

What school did you select

[@luisr8_]

That’s awesome brother! Thank you for this.

[@jonasmartin7470]

Hey congrats bro. What school did you pick?

[@victoresparza6081]

@@JTBayArea

[@psycorpse]

Your Cons are spot on, ATP corporate doesn't care about its students. Some of the instructors will work with you however.

[@luisr8_]

My instructor was the sole reason I didn’t want to quit. I wish I could’ve brought him with me lol. I didn’t really like the corporate feel either

[@ChrisBarnikow]

I use to go to Aeroguard flight academy part 141 school and I dropped out because it was too intense drinking from a fire hose if you will and I wanted to move to a part 61 school where you go at your own pace and that was the best decision I ever made thank god I dropped out of the academy the first month with only $2000 in debt and payed my PPL out of pocket with no debt.

[@matthewsansom5180]

PHENOMENAL video! A lot of new pilots think ATP is the only way to move forward when in reality, ATP isnt for everyone and there are WAY more options

[@luisr8_]

Thank you! Well said brother 👏

[@frederickweaver1028]

Could you guys share more of these options

[@codywhitney5659]

What are the other options

[@crisccavida1101]

That’s what I want to know. I have a admission flight on the 17th of this month.

[@KigenTheDegen]

Unfortunately the other options cost a shit ton of money that most dont have laying around and student loans arent available for em

[@MrKaneC]

I started my ATP training at KSAC in Sacramento, California two days ago. I must say I am a big fan of your videos and the way you compare the pros and cons of different aspects of flight training. The flight school in KSAC may be smaller, but it's growing fast and I am hoping to complete my training successfully. Even though I had 40+ hours of flying experience, the school has asked me to start from scratch. And you know what, I think it's a great idea because it has helped me to reinforce and solidify my knowledge. In fact, I had to pass the private pilot exam (PAR) a month prior to my start date, otherwise my deposit of 3 grand would have been forfeited. I must say, this is a challenging program, but just as you mentioned, it's like a boot camp which prepares you for the real world out there. I wish you all the best with your future endeavors and I hope you'll continue to make more great videos. 😊

[@luisr8_]

Thanks for the feedback! I wish you the best in training. Blue skies brotha

[@javhaabyambaa6438]

Hi Kane. I’m currently looking into getting into ATP and I still can’t decide whether I choose Sacramento location or Livermore location. For commute, I wouldn’t mind either location but I wonder which location has nicer people who would actually take their job seriously. Based on your experience so far, how do you think about Sacramento location? Thank you.

[@sydney_renee]

These are the exact reasons why I have decided to leave ATP at KCRG. I was almost halfway through private. Great explanation on everything!

[@luisr8_]

Thank you!

[@evangessner5152]

how was ATP at KCRG, probably going to go there in about a year. I already got a PPL from Acent at KHEG btw

[@sydney_renee]

@@evangessner5152 kcrg isn’t bad, the airspace does get busy, I only struggled because I needed a slower pace than ATP “allows.” I was thinking of finishing my ppl at kheg! Any cons?

[@landonhoffman6129]

Kansas City?

[@cynthiarodriguez1277]

Everyone follows a different path that is best for them Follow your heart and keep going

[@adhamkadaj520]

Following since week 1! I appreciate your insight on training! Keep Flying Brother 🙌🏼

[@luisr8_]

Thanks! Will do! It’s so awesome 😁

[@jeffhenley3809]

Hey, congratulations on your solo!! I'm impressed with your honesty, mistakes happen, just learn from them and don't repeat them. EXCELLENT decision with ATP, I know dozens of pilots who feel the same as you, but they stayed and regretted it later!! Regarding the idea or not with the CFI. I defiantly recommend it!! At a minimum, it makes you more marketable, you don't have to actually work as a CFI, and most likely you won't need to. Job applications are mostly to all computerized, and those programs are selecting the number of certificates you hold. Also, if you ever want to own an aircraft having the CFI certificate may lower your insurance!! Many of us who received our CFI didn't think we would like it, it was just a formality in our process, but later found out that we did like it (but the pay is terrible though)- I recommend it, it might be a blessing in disguise!!

[@cullen.specht]

atp is a great school…

[@jeffhenley3809]

@@cullen.specht Absolutely ATP is a great flight school. I regularly refer many people who’s interested in a career as a professional pilot to ATP- it’s just not a good fit for everyone. I appreciate those who attend ATP and shortly there after realize it’s not best for them to make that decision and leave. I know more than not who attended ATP, hated it, stayed for one reason or another and then later regretted it. I’ve flown with some very professional and competent pilots from ATP. Good flight school, just not a good fit for everyone.

[@luisr8_]

Well said!

[@luisr8_]

I love this. Thank you so much! The more research I do I couldn’t agree more about CFI. Plus I can do some spin training lol

[@jeffhenley3809]

@@luisr8_ hahaha, it created the devil in me. I was always afraid of that stuff, now I teach aerobatics- too much fun!!

[@KingENDLESS]

I’m at ATP in JQF. It’s… very very challenging. I wish I had a smaller school feel but it is what it is

[@luisr8_]

Sometimes the most challenging is the most rewarding! Stay strong and safe flying 💪

[@litoornelas6409]

I was there for a plane pickup, I’m glad we’re at a smaller location. kRIC

[@TheRealSilentMbuso]

It’s been great following along in your journey. Glad you’ve been safe gaining valuable experience. Also appreciate you for breaking down some pros and cons of ATP vs local flight schools. Stay safe out there

[@luisr8_]

I appreciate that! There are tons of options out there! I just hope everyone finds what best works for them to be honest

[@AV8RLUKE]

you definitely made the right decision. i’m also training at a smaller school in texas. you gave me some ideas with your multi cam recording at the end with foreflight. so thanks for that. stay safe flying bro and don’t bust any more bravos haha

[@luisr8_]

I love watching the ForeFlight playback lol! It’s so helpful

[@gunellvaughn-jackson6274]

Hey I live in Houston is your school close by

[@m.landicho3692]

what's your school? looking for one.

[@KingClever86]

What school do you go to?

[@Ty-jr9ou]

I was at ATP as well and my experience was a high pace stressful training environment with stressed out instructors. It really killed the fun in flying. I found another school and it's much better, I now have my private pilot's license and am working towards my instrument rating.

[@luisr8_]

Congrats! I’m glad you also found something that works better. I did enjoy my time there but it just wasn’t for me

[@marcoereu6991]

What’s your new school??

[@Ty-jr9ou]

@@marcoereu6991 FLT Academy, they are only in Utah though.

[@jackshain3647]

Where did you go ?

[@crisccavida1101]

Where?

[@cullen.specht]

brotha you knew that coming in dawg 😂 i mean i’ve had similar experiences so far but i know the end goal and honestly it’s not much more expensive then any other school and if you really find an instructor to sit down with they will help. all respect tho good luck with your future endeavors in aviation

[@HelloJello781]

Exactly , they explain what is expected of you and what your schedule will look like before you sign the paperwork lol. I think that some people just aren’t ready to commit a couple months solely to aviation and studying but they don’t realize that until they’re already in it. I hope that they realize as a first year FO , they’ll literally have ZERO control of their schedule

[@luisr8_]

I completely understand! I honestly had no issue with it at the beginning but sometimes you gotta do what’s best for you . 7 months and 12-13 months aren’t that far apart lol. I’d rather enjoy the short time of flight training than to rush through it

[@luisr8_]

@cullen.specht I know I know lol but forreal ATP is a great school. Just wasn’t for me. I feel way better now than I did there but I did enjoy it for the 4 weeks. I would’ve stayed longer but I wanted to leave before expenses racked too high

[@cullen.specht]

@@luisr8_ yep all about how you look at it tbh. another thing i think for people is starting at instrument. i think atps private program isn’t great i think you need experience coming into atp.

[@cullen.specht]

@@luisr8_ so did you leave because you wanted to not go slower but enjoy the process more? wanted less of a rush in the program?

[@psycorpse]

I stayed up to the week before my checkride. For me, I was trying to work full time, but the variable schedule with ATP is why I had to quit. They would give you a schedule but everyday was different than the schedule.

[@luisr8_]

Yea and the schedule can change a few hours before an event… that frustrated me often

[@boneal82]

I don’t think ATP’s program is possible with a job

[@imanairman]

@@boneal82 it's not, they also tell you this beforehand.

[@crisccavida1101]

I need to know other possibilities for these other flight schools?

[@pkitfox]

I have no personal experience, but I am impressed with Thrust Flights presentation on KZbin. You do need to do it ASAP. You get to the point, at least I did, where you have too many commitments to put your life on hold for flight training. I turned down a chance to go Army civilian acquired skills helicopter training because I was too comfortable with my job. Do it soon! Good luck.

[@luisr8_]

Thanks, you are right! Been finishing up my training at another local school and I’m almost at 200 hours

[@AshleyWincer]

Part 141 vs Part 61 flight schools; Part 61 flight schools are a lot more flexible with you making a booking based on your availability. No matter which flight school you go to, in the end you get the same FAA License and ratings..

[@luisr8_]

Absolutely 💯

[@charlieguerrero1004]

Thank you for the video my man! You confirmed most of my doubts ima be heading to the Naples air center👍🏾

[@luisr8_]

I’m glad I could help! Finding the right school is soooo important for your flight training. Keep the standards high same with your instructor

[@wilsonthe5nake]

How is it Charlie? I’m thinking about Naples air center as well!

[@tyontheline]

Glad i found your channel while searching into schools. Was rly considering atp but dont rly want to quit my job so the flexibility part for me is really important. Although im sure atp has great everything when it comes to the scheduling and flexibility i also believe thats the most important especially with your own money. Will be looking into different options

[@luisr8_]

I’m glad to hear that! ATP is a great school for a select group of people but there are sooo many options for anybody. My best advice is talk to the actual students and alumni because the employees are going to sugar coat things

[@CeeJayC3903]

In ATP right now. It's not drinking from a firehose, it's more like drinking straight from a fire hydrant. Information dump from the get go. It is manageable if you dedicate enough time and effort. Study the material, watch videos, and ask questions. All of the instructors I've talked to have been very helpful, and all are willing to answer any questions that come up. I do believe that ground school should be a daily thing, not when time is fit. Also, if you can get study groups in with the people that's in the same "section", that helps too. The first 2-3 weeks was a HUGE learning curve, now I'm landing the plane, got the checklists situated, and the comms have come 98-% full circle.

[@christopherhaney]

Starting ATP on Monday. Great job for picking a career so young. I’m starting over at 40. I plan to make content myself.

[@luisr8_]

That’s awesome! Go in with a full heart and work hard. ATP was definitely enjoyable! It just wasn’t for me. I’d love to see the content. Aviation social media is strong community

[@interestingvideos4046]

How has the training been so far?

[@StrictlySports]

please start would love to see it!

[@innovademeister]

Love the pros and cons comparison, that is exactly what I heard from my instructor who was at ATP before. Would like to also hear more about the cadet program, as well as the pros and cons (if there is any) *Been following since week 1 ;)

[@luisr8_]

Yea a lot of past ATP students feel that way, it’s crazy. Thanks for watching! I’ll make a video soon on the cadet program

[@essel23fly]

This the reason why I always tell people to get their Private first before committing to a pro flight school. ATP is the last place you should be going unless you mentally expect to be at the airlines as fast as possible.

[@luisr8_]

Agreed!

[@PilotCristina]

I left after I got my commercial multi back in 2018. Don't regret it one bit. It took the fun out of flying. You are nothing but a number. I can go on and on.

[@luisr8_]

Honestly! Flying needs to be about adventure and freedom

[@sublimetarsier6274]

As always good stuff man🤟🏻🔥congrats on your first solo!✈️👏🏻

[@luisr8_]

Thank you! I really appreciate it 💪

[@mohammadbarani5452]

Honest, and clear explanation. Thanks!

[@luisr8_]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gabbiecruz2743]

So proud of you! Keep it up

[@luisr8_]

Thank you!

[@malakov5]

I did my private at part 61 but I’m just flying for fun. I’ll be going all the way to commercial in part 61 on my own time. My friend did part 141 at a local school. They had him soloing at 30+ hours and that just sounds crazy to me. I soloed around 10-15. I did like the structure he was presented, but I also appreciated the fact that my instructor was very 1:1 with his students and would tailor the lesson plan to our progress. Some people solo earlier than others. Part 61 worked for me. Also an overlooked option is to actually buy your own plane Like some old 1960s Cherokee 140. Preferably IFR capable and do private and instrument in that. Not sure how relevant that is given plane prices nowadays

[@luisr8_]

I would love my own plane lol! But yea I think learning all boils down to 1. You 2. Your instructor Everything else is just a variable that slows you down imo. Having a good instructor lay out 1on1 plans can get you through the process just as quick

[@HonestOutletBooms]

30hrs is high, im in training now, I have 9hrs and might solo in two days.

[@jwlamb63]

I did my ATP certificate training with ATP Inc back in 2021. At the time I had been a pilot since 1981 and CFI since 1993. I was impressed by the instructors ATP employed but not so much with employees in administration or the equipment’s condition. I wrote ATP corporate about what I encountered but never heard anything back.

[@luisr8_]

Yea it’s unfortunate but the corporate side of things and how they treat/view their customers is upsetting. It’s their way or the highway

[@amberbarbosacalsavara4852]

This is so informational! Thank you!

[@luisr8_]

Of course! Glad it was helpful

[@kasey446]

I've heard best thing you can do with ATP especially the falling behind part is knocking out every single written test before you go there so mostly just have to worry about check rides. would you say thats about accurate?

[@luisr8_]

Absolutely! I was way ahead of the program when I was at ATP. I was doing great and would’ve kept it up but decided I wanted to go another route. It’s very fast paced. Everything happens so quick but if you have a great instructor they will make sure you are ready before the checkride

[@sebastianandnoel2012]

@luisr8 I fly out of Tampa executive as well, depending where you are departing be mindful of the bravo at 1,200ft you can easily bust the airspace. if you are not paying attention, since pattern altitude is 1021 or round it up to 1100ft.

[@luisr8_]

I learned that the hard way lol 😂 but I pay so much attention to it now. Would love to meet you one day! I’m about to start working at KVDF fueling planes so you should see me around

[@MelanieinAction]

There are plenty of 141 schools that aren’t ATP and still accelerated. I wish people did their research before just deciding on ATP. I toured ATP at KFXE in South FL when they just changed to 7 months accelerated program. Absolutely no way. That means no days off, school every single day. You’re going to get burnt out. The partnerships are nice but airlines are hiring regardless so you don’t really NEED it. I did all my training at American Flyers 0-CFII in 9 months and it was 100% worth it. And they don’t drop their students. They work with you and do their best to get you back up to speed or work something out. They don’t leave you high and dry with a fat loan and totally screwed.

[@luisr8_]

I’m really hoping these videos help people out with research bc I sure needed it when I was making a decision. There’s so many options out there but researching it is so difficult!

[@StrictlySports]

yeah well atp isn’t 141 you cone.

[@BryanPatterson-t4i]

ATP is designed around a fast track AND what training will be like at airlines. Cost? Irrelevant, it’s about ROI. If it’s get you to airlines 1 month earlier that’s potentially hundreds of thousands in additional earnings. They are not flexible, true, but neither is an airline training schedule for the most part. My son in law started ATP in January of 2020 with zero hours. He just started his second year with SWA. He did not CFI at ATP as there were no positions coming out of Covid. Good luck to you and did like your breakdown

[@luisr8_]

Thank you! I appreciate the feedback

[@heavensarmyministries4097]

Starting ATP in Lakeland in a few months, hopefully…..

[@luisr8_]

Goodluck! I don’t mean to rag on ATP at all. The training they give is superb. These were just things that I felt in my experience and wasn’t the path I wanted to go. You’ll do great 🙏

[@JeshuaFlores-du1xv]

I think the funniest thing is that before the video started, I got an ATP ad lol

[@luisr8_]

I’m telling you dude the marketing is crazy 😂

[@aldohattonduran5227]

✈️🗽🛬🛩️ Luis, I'm subscribed, liked, and now commented 😂! Bro.. I'm feeling ya on the 5-7 month ATP speed rush, I'm a good student as well but 5-7 months to learn a ton of avión is absurd, coupled with the lack of usable planes at times and for 18 dollars an hour.. ridiculous. And I've heard that Blue Line is 5.5 months 😳. Glad you're enjoying everything and better off now. Thanks for the insight.. I'm looking into schools at the moment here by Philadelphia. Keep posting, much appreciated 👍🏻👌👏🏻

[@luisr8_]

Whadduppp lol. Tell all your friends about me I need 500 subscribers . I love making these vids. Another perk of not going to ATP is I can record and post my flights! It was the best decision tbh

[@aldohattonduran5227]

@@luisr8_ ya estás hermano 💪🏻 I'll see what I can do! Have a great weekend ✈️🛫🛬🛩️

[@xistaticxi7243]

About the pay rate… I was thinking to myself that since they want you to come work for them and become one of their cfi’s then you’d be able to make the initial payment cost back and pay off a decent chunk of that loan but since the damn pay rate is so low I guess not…

[@luisr8_]

It’s really not worth it. A lot of people go through the program and decide to instruct elsewhere to make a livable wage

[@Lee-qp6gf]

Not everyone can be a good CFI even if they have the ratings. As a student I wanted someone with years of experience to be my instructor and that's the way I went.

[@luisr8_]

Very well said

[@irubenguler]

Keep posting love these videos

[@luisr8_]

Thank you! You know I will 😎

[@aviatrixantics]

My current flight instructor for IR training is an ATP grad and he's great. Excellent pilot produced by ATP! Fuel has gone up, so prices have gone up, but you didn't mention you can start ATP with PPL in hand. I trained for PPL at a Part 61 flight school. If you don't like the structure, you may consider flying private jets (Part 135). The airlines are going to be structured and immersive. You'll have more flexibility with private. Once you have your CFII you can train pilots who own their aircraft, like me, and charge them what you want. Flying is fast paced and you're young. Doesn't sound like you are ready to go all in. How are you going to go commercial with low hours? You build hours by teaching or banner flying.

[@luisr8_]

Ive done my research and am still doing it. I’m all in for sure but the quality of a pilot isn’t determined by how long they train for. If I take my own pace and add a few months to the process but save money and become a better pilot that’s 100% a win. ATP doesn’t guarantee you are a good pilot. They teach the bare minimum to pass a checkride and send you on. Trust me they don’t care about any individual. Also I did mention and list the price/timeframe of starting ATP with your PPL

[@aviatrixantics]

@@luisr8_ You mentioned getting your commercial license and being able to get a job flying commercially. Don't know how you would manage that with less than AT LEAST 700 hrs. Getting hired to fly professionally IS determined by flight hours....bottom line. The quality of a pilot isn't strictly determined by the number of hours they train, but it does help to stay out of the Bravo when not invited in.

[@davidt8087]

@@luisr8_this is what I thought but it's false. At best the only thing you learn at other mom and pops is some neat trivia, some weird facts that don't really affect your piloting much, and perhaps maybe a couple skills in flying that aren't really required either for private or professional flying. It's a myth that other schools will make you "better".

[@favbal2450]

@@aviatrixantics there are many pilots out there that have been hired with under 700 hours. Not everyone goes the CFI route to accumulate their hours. There are small transport companies out there that will give low hour pilots an opportunity. I have 3 buddies that were 300 hrs, 475 hrs, and 510 hrs when they were hired earlier this year with different transport companies. It has to do with networking.

[@scottiferr]

Im fixing to start flight school soon too an have been told by a lot of people to go to ATP but have constantly been unsure where to go.

[@luisr8_]

ATP was great, wasn’t really my style. I prefer to go at a slightly slower pace so I can really retain information. I can’t learn if I’m cramming information in short periods of time

[@scottiferr]

@@luisr8_ I’m the same way really. I also worry about having a full time job and trying to complete schooling. I have a academy close to my house but they only offer in air training. No ground school or anything like that nature which I know is a HUGE part of getting certified

[@luisr8_]

Ground school helps polish a lot ! It’s just so much easier when someone walks you through and show/teach the subject

[@scottiferr]

@@luisr8_ that’s my concern

[@HonestOutletBooms]

Go to a local part 61 school. Ask the students that are there how it goes, how they like it

[@KLGBAviator]

Went to Atp may-oct 2022 spot on in the end I deferred CFI to do it another school. But I had two instructors that kept me going. In Japan getting my CFI at Yokota aero club at Yokota air base Japan. 😊

[@luisr8_]

Bro that’s awesome! Honestly my flight instructor was the only thing keeping me there. He was awesome I for sure wish I could’ve brought him with me lol

[@NathanH172]

I did their school in the PNW just before Covid, I finished up IFR, but I got out due to COVID and weather but still left with all the dept.

[@FlyGuy_Aero]

So where are you now in training? I fly GA all around Tampa.

[@luisr8_]

I’m at KVDF with Tampa bay aviation. I work there at the FBO too! Hopefully we cross paths

[@FlyGuy_Aero]

@@luisr8_ nice, I fly the decathlon out of CLW

[@luisr8_]

That’s awesome! I wanna get my tail wheel & complex once I finish private

[@ErinStevenson-po6he]

Hi Luis, just came across youtube your page. Thanks for the info on ATP. I also decided to go another route. What school do you attend in Florida and how is it ? Also, do you think a degree in aviation is needed ?

[@luisr8_]

Degrees will help for non pilot jobs for sure! But if your goal is to get paid to fly then no degree is needed. I’m over at Global pilot academy at KVDF. Great school and alternative to something like ATP

[@enduro_j]

Glad your telling the truth. That’s messed up that they won’t work with you.

[@luisr8_]

I really wish there was more insight to things like this especially how expensive they are. Hopefully I save some people the trouble

[@Metoed88]

Im starting atp 09/25, zero experience finished all writtens and will start studying before September, hopefully this gives me a buffer zone. Planning on studying flows and maneuvers as well as the POH, any tips or recommendations for studying for the private phase?

[@luisr8_]

You are so ahead of the game! You will do great. Biggest tip is to get access to the instructor handbook so you know what you’ll be learning ahead of the lesson. That really helps you study the areas you will practice

[@luisr8_]

Also the POH and the training supplement are golden 🏆

[@Metoed88]

@@luisr8_thank you so much, I’ve been looking forward to this journey and I know 7 months is intense and my goal is to get to the airlines the fastest way. I am willing to sacrifice my time to succeed!

[@kennyakajackass]

hey im thinking of joining atp also where do you go to do all the written exams before you start the schooling?

[@Metoed88]

@@kennyakajackass psi written is the testing center and i use sporty’s app to study for the PAR exam, and sheppard air for the rest

[@ahmedaydoner7915]

Super helpful video! I live 10 minutes from PIE and have been looking into ATP. Would love to chat with you sometime if you’re free regarding some other options that you found in the TB area

[@luisr8_]

Yea absolutely! St.Pete has a good amount of flight schools. Check out tampa bay aviation

[@GotItMadeAviation]

Thanks for sharing

[@luisr8_]

Thanks for watching!

[@GOMD77]

I'm in central florida and was looking into ATP in orlando location. I was reading about how it's good to get groundschool and written exams out of the way before the actual flight trainning. Would you recommend that as well or just start at ATP. I'm not sure if ATP will still have me pay for ground school with me coming in with all the written exams out of the way.

[@luisr8_]

ATP program still requires you to do their own ground school in addition. I would 100% try to get all writtens or some done before starting. It’s way too overwhelming. It is doable though

[@GOMD77]

@@luisr8_ Hey brother, thank you so much for replying. I am considering L3harris in Sanford area. Seems like it's better for what im looking for than what ATP has to offer.

[@luisr8_]

Researching a flight school is rough lol I’m just now finding other alternatives . There’s a lot of options honestly

[@coryadams8390]

So helpful, thank you!!

[@luisr8_]

Glad it was helpful! You’re welcome

[@AV4Life]

Does going to ATP make you more competitive and desirable to the airlines versus if you just do it at your local flight school?

[@luisr8_]

Not really. Most jobs only care about what hours / certificates you have and not where you got it from

[@AV4Life]

@@luisr8_ Gotcha, thanks!

[@StephenShreds]

Takes guts to say it! While a structure is nice if they have the ability to kick you out of class for not understanding a section of the curriculum is utterly ridiculous. It’s my money! I am spending a crazy amount for this service and you don’t cater to my needs in a specific area and boot me from the program ain’t no I way I’m gonna go with your program!

[@luisr8_]

A job I can totally understand being bossed around and told what to do since I’m being paid… but if I’m the one paying for the service I’m going to have my say in it 🙌 facts

[@PilotJourneyPNW]

Sounds like a good approach to change school if it wasn't the right fit. What do you think about finding an independent CFI not associated with a flight school? If you can setup a fixed schedule and they have a plane that would be a good way to do it. I'm going to look into that...

[@luisr8_]

In my experience it all comes down to your ability to learn and the instructors ability to teach. The schools helps with extra resources and provides the plane which is helpful. If you have either your own plane or access to one then hiring a private CFI could be beneficial

[@jeremiahbond2810]

I'm paying my flight instructor 50 bucks an hour. I'm fine with that. I also rent my aircraft ATM. Do not have the private yet and only at 13 hrs. But my goal is just to purchase an aircraft and have my A&P, 20 years experience, and just maintain it, not inspect, for as long as I need it to get my commercial(etc etc).

[@luisr8_]

I’ve thought about the same thing! Having your A&P is so helpful in that process

[@DuragVince-]

Has anything changed being at this new school in terms of schedule and flexibility? Do you feel like you’re learning better, have more time to absorb the material and reflect and just overall having freedom to do other things on the side? Anything that was better at ATP compared to your new school?

[@luisr8_]

Structure was more laid out at ATP but I’m so much happier in every way at the new school. I make my schedule according to my needs. I don’t get random cancellations anymore. I would say learning the ground stuff at ATP really did help me but also overwhelmed me. I like going at my own pace and slowing down when I need to!

[@ec1xpse]

@@luisr8_what school are you doing now and where can i research them?

[@luisr8_]

Tampa bay aviation & global pilot academy are the schools I’m at/attending over at KVDF

[@ec1xpse]

@@luisr8_ cool thanks for responding

[@shaneheltonOnTwitch]

And global pilot academy is housing something you have to pay for out of pocket or can loans cover it then pay it back later?

[@luisr8_]

Both, they accept loans and out of pocket payments. They are also partnered with Meritize

[@JacksonvilleListingAgent]

Hey, man! I was thinking about joining ATP in Jacksonville. Do you know of another nation-wide school you'd recommend? Ideally I'm looking for the same kind of pace, but with less cost and risk of being dropped from the program. I appreciate your thoughts!

[@luisr8_]

There are several option in Florida and surrounding states. My best advice is search for “Career pilot program” or “airline pilot program” There are so many options around but hard to find. ATP dominates because of marketing lol

[@JacksonvilleListingAgent]

@@luisr8_ Thanks!

[@StrictlySports]

atp on top

[@jasonivie6579]

Thanks for sharing all of this! I am looking at different schools hoping to start at one by the end of the year and your experience is super helpful. Just curious, were you able to stay in the SkyWest cadet program when you transferred schools or was that exclusive to ATP?

[@luisr8_]

You are so welcome! Most cadet programs are actually open to everyone. ATP helps open the door for you but they are not usually ATP exclusive. I’m still with SkyWest :)

[@KibbsFPSHUB]

I'm paying cash for my PPL, planned to get a loan for everything else. I was worried ATP would be one of my only options for getting a loan for pilot training so id have to go with them. any input?

[@luisr8_]

I plan on finishing my PPL at a local school cash and then going back to a fast track program. Benefits in that is the loan will be much less so you save money. Plus it gives more time to prepare yourself imo. But look at other schools! There are surprisingly many other programs that are similar to ATP but will build a plan to your needs

[@luisr8_]

Also different schools have different partnerships with loan companies. I really like Meritize personally

[@boneal82]

man I’ve done hours of research on ATP and I would say 80% of people that have gone there wouldn’t recommend it or changed schools. I was seriously thinking about attending but all the reviews have steered me away

[@luisr8_]

I know! It sucks but this type of stuff and reviews are so helpful. I deff wish there were more. It’s a good school but it’s corporate boot camp lol

[@StrictlySports]

atp on top start soon so exited

[@luisr8_]

Goodluck! You got this 💪

[@djmccommons2604]

Great stuff!!

[@luisr8_]

Thanks!

[@preeminent8720]

Sounds like part 61 fits you better over a 141

[@luisr8_]

Yes I love part 61, lots of people have recommend 141 though lol it’s a hard decision

[@marklouie3377]

How do you pay for your new flight school now? Do you use the same loan?

[@psycorpse]

He will most likely not be able to do that. I wasn't able and I did the same thing.

[@psycorpse]

Now have to pay out of pocket.

[@Michael-ho9tm]

So what’d you do with the loan? Do you have to pay it back? And what is the interest rate on the loan if you don’t mind me asking?

[@Michael-ho9tm]

@@psycorpse^^

[@luisr8_]

No the remainder of the loan got refunded, But I only have about $5000 worth of training left for my PPL. I’m going to pay cash and then look for a loan company to help with the rest. I really like Meritize

[@cmoney2731]

Can you clarify about the whole loan topic.If ATP boots you out of the program are you still required to pay them the full amount or are you paying for training you’ve completed and able to move your funds to the next school?

[@luisr8_]

So once you end your program ATP will calculate how much to charge you based off the hours and training you received. Everything else gets refunded to the loan company so all you have to pay for is what you used basically. They end up recalculating everything

[@cmoney2731]

@@luisr8_ but would you have to reapply for the loan to spend at a new school or will you have $x.xx left over to continue??

[@luisr8_]

I had to reapply for a new loan. I found another school that uses Meritize and they approved me the second time around

[@aguirremovies]

What flight school are you in now?

[@luisr8_]

Tampa Bay Aviation

[@KevinSanchez-lt6ds]

Hey im thinking on signing up for atp school but i need to know if i would still have sometime to do uber here and there to pay some expenses

[@luisr8_]

Oh yea! You can definitely do Uber/uber eats in spare time. Gotta make money somehow lol

[@princejames1395]

Which flight training school can you recommend presently

[@luisr8_]

Tampa bay aviation, superior aviation gateway, global pilot academy

[@100M2B]

It sounds like ATP is really good for China. Not for me. Thank you for making this video. Very helpful! 👍👍

[@luisr8_]

Not a problem! Thank you for watching

[@alonshalit5778]

Are those 30 hours you completed at ATP transferable to another flight school? We appreciate the info from the journey.

[@luisr8_]

Yes so I had 20 hours from ATP that transferred over and I have received another 15 at my new school. So I’m at 35 total. Thanks for watching!

[@muhammadsteinberg]

Flight hrs go in your personal logbook. You own your logbook. Your flight hrs follow you wherever you go as long as you have your logbook.

[@ahmedfarah4094]

see I am trying to star flight school hopefully mid next year. My question is do u have a degree. the more airlines i research the more i see a we don't require a degree line. Do u think one is necessary.

[@luisr8_]

I have an associates degree but it is not needed. The airlines from what I hear care about two things 1. Your time/experience 2. Who you are as a person and if you’ll fit into their molding

[@ThtPhatDabber719]

Can i ask a question in the aspects of atp an how they were fast paced they are like is there alote of book work or do they jst basically get to one step to another without even being able to comprehend anything they teach if tht makes sense!?

[@luisr8_]

That’s exactly how it is. They rush you through the program pretty fast and don’t give you time to digest any of it. Plus when you go home you have even more studying to do on your own

[@bobwright8789]

I am no expert, but going from zero to full-time, paid, professional pilot sounds a little too good to be true...

[@luisr8_]

Some people are capable of it but it’s not very attainable unless everything falls perfect. More often than not I have heard people not being able to attain the dream they “sell” you

[@danwilloughby4807]

Once training is done and you have certs needed, you still need to fly to get hours! Experience. Most do this by CFI, or others flying jobs to build time

[@andrewboulden3725]

In 2025 I don’t see any reason to do ATP , no room whatsoever for extra time or help if you’re struggling with something, not how I’d want future pilots trained.

[@rick1992brwak]

are you finishing your private license with atp? What are your plans after atp?

[@luisr8_]

Finishing my PPL at a local school instead. Once I get myself re-situated I can look into loans again for a much lower amount second time around :)

[@freelanxe]

Now it’s going up to 116k 😂 😭

[@luisr8_]

I saw something saying it was at $185k 😭 what are they doing

[@freelanxe]

@ wtf that’s crazy lol. I’m in Detroit Michigan. They probably charge more in warmer climates

[@alexsuleta2305]

The big question is, upon leaving, how much of your money did you get back?

[@luisr8_]

All of it that I didn’t use! They only charged me for the amount of hours I flew with them which was 20. I thought it would be worse but they actually prorate it for us

[@be.awesome7172]

Did they give you any money back or are you out the whole 90k?

[@luisr8_]

Great question, so my 20 hours at ATP cost about 9k so I’m only getting charged that amount. The rest gets refunded to the loan and they recalculate it. I only pay for what i used luckily!

[@Elohim-and-Marcel]

@@luisr8_thank you i was wondering how that goes because i saw online that 80% of people drop out of flight school

[@jdavis8610]

Agreed!

[@HonestOutletBooms]

So what i get out of this is ATP is good for making pilots but not at making good pilots?

[@luisr8_]

Essentially yes. They have exceptions of course but general consensus is ATP is a “pilot factory”

[@Slava_Bogu.]

I started ATP in March and quit from it a month ago. About PARTNERSHIP: every Airlines does not care where you are came from, they are require 1500 total flight hours. Overall ATP - suck!!!

[@luisr8_]

Well said! Some of them are helpful but not fully needed

[@StrictlySports]

every school needs 1500 hours 💀

[@anime_addicted9]

Wait so the reason you left was money issues but it’s pay a whole sum then start I thought ?

[@luisr8_]

The total cost after you complete the program wasn’t worth it for me. I can get all the certifications I need for half the price so that’s why

[@cmritchie04]

@7:00 do you get some of your money back?

[@luisr8_]

Yes! All money not used gets refunded. I only got charged for the hours I accrued

[@river_peak]

do you have to pay ATP everything up front or pay as you go?

[@luisr8_]

Both lol but Pay as you go, they take the money in installments though. For me it was 20k at a time I believe

[@marklouie3377]

Did you finish your private?

[@luisr8_]

Still waiting on check-ride date! Never felt so ready for a test in my life lol

[@JeanButeau]

What training school are you currently attending now in Tampa?

[@luisr8_]

Global pilot academy

[@adamstein2054]

Why did you leave ATP?

[@luisr8_]

Did you watch the video lol

[@adamstein2054]

@@luisr8_ time stamp please

[@KigenTheDegen]

Respectfully on one hand you say you want to get everything done as fast as possible but you want to do it at your own pace. The second you say “but” that means fuck what I just said and this is what I really mean. ATP is the type of school where you have to say fuck everyone and everything around me and I will drown myself in this for the next 7 months to better myself. Clearly you couldn’t do that so you shouldn’t knock the school for it.

[@luisr8_]

The problem that comes to play is it takes more than 7 months on average. Also students and instructors that are still in ATP agree with me and it’s a common theme. I was in love with the 7 months gimmick until I found out how things really turned out. The company/school is great at marketing/advertising and that I will stand on. Very misleading though

[@KigenTheDegen]

@@luisr8_ I have to disagree with that, I have 2 personal friends that went to ATP. One had his PPL and went to ATP and got his commercial in 5 months as advertised. Another started from 0 and got his commercial in the advertised 7 months. I use real personal examples and not online “examples”. Do what you will with that information but I will be following suit to them and accomplish my dreams alongside with them come april.

[@luisr8_]

I respect your opinion. It’s possible but my whole point is that it’s not a guarantee. Wish you the best of luck in training!

[@michael6589]

So in summary, yoi got a flight violation and quit before you could be kicked out and now making a video saying ATP is a bad program? Thousands have done it before you and thousands more will be after you. You're lacking responsibility.

[@luisr8_]

This is a hilarious comment 😂 that’s not what happen at all so bad summary. And I didn’t say it was a bad program. It wasn’t for me and I’m sure it isn’t for many other thousands of people

[@kyleigray2059]

Everyone else that watched your video understood exactly what you said loud and clear. You never said it was a bad program, you simply just gave the pros and cons to which thousands comprehended. Guess there is just one confused person inputting their personal opinion. Your video was awesome and very informative. Thank you!@@luisr8_

[@luisr8_]

I just am now seeing this lol but thank you so much!

[@topofthegreen]

overpriced pilot mill.

[@luisr8_]

👌spot on

[@StrictlySports]

every scholl is a pilot mill

[@topofthegreen]

Overpriced pilot mill.

[@luisr8_]

100%

[@lukemartinez4412]

🙏🙏🙏🙏👍👍👍🙁