Just one piece of advice from a 45 year airline veteran...your one and only motivation to become a pilot should be the passion for flying. If you go in for the money or for any other reason you are doomed. Being an airline pilot is extremely demanding, constantly tested and graded, studying all the time just to keep up, so if you don't LOVE it then trust me, you will be miserable. I wish you all the best, it's the best profession in the world, and as I tell people, I've never worked a day in my life, I just lived my dream of flying...blue skies
I am doing this purely for the passion. I’ve been focused on making money my entire life…. And that is why I am doing a career change to something that I love.
Stupid baby boomer comment , money DOES matter this isn’t the 70s where everything’s cheap , want to survive and have a decent life that pays bills ? Money is important. Comments like that are part of the problem of why pilots in the US made crap money for years. Don’t care about money? Go work at McDonald’s
10 years ago I sat in my first 121 indoc class at age 46. 10 years later I'm flying a 777 for a major airline. You can do this. DO NOT let anyone say you cant. I look forward to following your journey. Good luck!
@@vortexgaming8761 Exactly. Worked through all the ratings. Payed as I went, no loans. Taught for 4 years, almost 1400 hours of dual given. Then two different regionals flying E175's and on to a major. 737 initially and now the 777. I leave for Seoul tonight.
Wow this thread is awesome, just turned 31 been in b2b sales for 8 years and really want to jump in, but fund myself gradually. You’re all an inspiration
Bravo to you for perusing your dream while you can still make it happen. I started flight training at age 66 and got my PPL at 67 (3 years ago). Now at 70, instrument rated, and I'm a co-owner of a Cessna 172 with my son and we are having a blast with $100 hamburger runs, flying all the grandkids and last year flew to Oshkosh and participated in the Cessna mass arrival. Looking to follow your flight adventure.
I'm with you. I just turned 69 and will start pursuing my PPL in about 60 days. Want to get my 10 YO Grandaughter involved so that by time she turns 16, she will have her own PPL.
You did your research on how-to attain an airline job👍🏻. Motivation is the key to achieving it! Also, at retirement age of 65 (may soon be increased to 68), you can get a corporate flying job as captain. I did all that you are working on, when I was 16. In 1978, at age 25, I landed my airline job, starting as f/o on the DC-9. Fast forward to my 65th birthday in 2018, I retired with 28 years on the B767, having had a 40 year airline career. What a ride, and the experiences I had are memorable. Now at 70, I fly my 1947 v tail Bonanza.
@@sirferr3870 I have no relations. I’m 70, and ALL have died off🥴. Plus my dad was born a GOULD, and was adopted by Mangold, so half my family is not really related-that I know of.
I’m 50 years old with a private multi almost enough hours for my commercial but getting ready to study for my instrument and want to go to the airlines as a mid career life change I really appreciate your video it gives me more motivation as it is scary being 50 and trying to change careers
@@trent_dyrsmid I also just turned 50, I got my PPL at 33 and quit flying at 237hrs after kids and the 2008 crash. I bought a C150 and am piling on every hour I can. I'm about to take my Instrument check ride and just crossed the 700hr mark tonight! Midlife career change is scary but I have received great advise and encouragement by my friends that are well established in the industry! Let's do this!
Stumpled upon this video today. Glad I did. I’m 43, inherited a passion for aviation from my dad who used to work ground for Piedmont and I’m a burnt out software developer who is just wanting a new start. Unfortunately, I don’t have an entrepreneur background, nor the resources to pause income to start going back into school (kids, mortgage, etc), so I’ll have to go much more slowly than I’d like, but your video has helped given me the encouragement I needed to continue with my plans and passion. Thanks
You have time on your side!! There are numerous schools that have approved financing packages from Fannie Mae…so you don’t have to have the cash. Of course, you do still need a way to pay for your life while you train.
YOU… MOTIVATE ME!! I’m about to get my PPL and have been asking what am I going to do after this. Commercial will take a lot of time and money but after watching your videos, I am going for it. I’m as old as you are as well. Wanted to go to the Naval Academy when I was in high school but was not accepted because “I was Duke Mitchell’s kid”. Lost that desire to fly in college but pursuing my dream again last year! I am so excited. Best wishes to you!! We are all cheering for you!
Hell yes! So happy to see you going for this, Trent! I turn 53 in December. I'm a Detroit-based CFI with approx. 1,350 hours (1,000hrs earned just this past 12 months). Like you, I'm in the SkyWest Pilot Pathway program and am currently going through their pilot application process. All things going well, I could very well be in an FO class by the end of this year. My wife and children are fully supportive of my career change and we've been financially able to make it happen which has removed a lot of potential stress and uncertainty. You are never too old to follow your dreams! Git 'er done! Perhaps I'll meet you one day soon flying the SkyWest line?!!
Hey Simon! I just completed the first part of my plan. I now have all the ratings that I need, including a CFI, CFII, and MEI. Now I’ll work as an instructor on my way to the 1500 hours I need to get a Skywest class date. See you in a cockpit one day!
I made a comment on your other vid. I'm 51 and have my private... but I'm changing careers. I'm currently a SkyWest Cadet. I would recommend looking into it... it seems like a no brainer to get tied into them... plus if your school is a primer school... they give back $17,500 reimbursement once you start flying with them. Plus first year FO is $95K... so that's over $112 your first year. AND.... they are upgrading to Capt as soon as you hit your 1000 hrs. At the last meeting they said guys were doing it in less than 2 years FO to Capt
Thank you so much for your comment! I am already a Skywest cadet. Super cool to hear directly from you on how fast I could get to captain as that is even better than what I thought.
A friend of mine who works for skywest just replied to a text that I sent him with a screenshot of your comment and he said that guys are making it to captain in as fast as a year 🤯😁
@@trent_dyrsmid Yep. 1000hrs, an you can upgrade. There was a small rumor going around that they weren't hiring since new FO couldn't get sim time. BUT... the realty is, they had so many upgrades, that the sim and classrooms were full of FO-Capt upgrades. We were talking about it a little a couple days ago on the last pilot workshop. They aren't mandatory, but sign up for them. THe first hour is the lecture, and the second is Q&A. The next one is may 18th.
@@trent_dyrsmid Oh... one more thing. the new SWC (SkyWest Charter) is budling up. I fly out of KJST and there is 4 of the jets sitting on the apron. They are hiring Capt's... but the word is, low hour cadets will be able to apply for FO. Since it's part 135, the 1500 rule doesn't apply. Keep your eye open for that.
46 years old with commercial multi instrument. I started in my 20’s right after 9/11 and the aviation industry went to crap. Went to one of the ‘bigger’ schools in Florida came out with a bunch of ratings a few hundred hours but back then it wasn’t feasible to keep waiting for things to rebound. Had to move onto other things in life but have recently started to get the ‘bug’ again. This video and all the information you’ve collected and shared has really got me thinking as well. My age has been my only worry but from what your saying it doesn’t really have to be. Keep on keeping on with your dreams and thanks so much for sharing!!
I am exactly like you. Commercial Multi Instrument about 400 hours. Started in my 20s in the early 2000s. Went to the big flight school in Florida. Got the bug again started retraining again. I'm on flight number "2." The muscle memory is there. I'm doing things automatically without knowing why. Get back in the air, chase the dream...
I’m glad I found this video. I am 51, own a business that is now running itself, and am seriously considering becoming a commercial pilot. I started my pilot training 25 years ago, but some events in life kept me from finishing. For me, money doesn’t really matter. My business is successful and can provide for me. It’s more about the love of flying for me.
So cool to hear and watch your journey. I leave May 1st as well, heading to Goodyear, AZ to start the United Aviate program on May 8th. I have 0 hours, no PPL, and will be 43 in July. Keep us posted.
Hey Justin I went through the United Aviate selection process and made it all the way to the written test, then unfortunately not selected. Enjoyed the process. I'm now 54
@JayJay-fd8yy There were sections asking about number patterns and whether or not you knew the difference between .01 and .10 It was section by section. Initially I didn't think I passed but I did and was very surprised. United did say I could re-apply if I wanted but I only have like 7 years after training to offer a 121 carrier so I'm thinking maybe try my luck in the corporate or cargo pool next.
Nothing is impossible. I was homeless, living in a cave on the coast of South Africa a few years ago. I have since started three small businesses and have also started my PPL training a month ago. Although affording it is going to be a massive challenge, I am up for it. And I am not stopping there either. My life's dream was to be a Flight Instructor. I love teaching people and I love flying. And at almost 52, I am chasing that dream. So keep the faith brother, nothing, and I do mean NOTHING is impossible.
Well I'm guessing 57 is ti late,I was gonna shoot for regionals years ago but just never did it! Kick myself every day! I guess I'll be happy with ppl ... just want to fly! Your story is amazing! Stick with it! Your gonna make it happen! Good on ya brother!
Hey Trent! I just discovered you and your page. I love this video and what you're doing I had to subscribe. Buddy I believe in you and I'm inspired! I just turned 41 and I've dreamed of flying my entire life. About 3 months ago my younger brother (age 37) decided we're going for our dream of becoming airlines pilots. But one of the things we did a ton of research on was this very topic...is it too late for me and we, like you have received a ton of enc from the pilot community. You got this man! You totally got this buddy! Use the negative comments as fuel for the fire that burns in you brother! At the moment we are still researching and trying to find a way to pay for training and also deciding what school we want to attend, but someday soon we'll be sharing the sky together and hopefully we'll meet and sit back and laugh about how people told us we would fail. Good luck on your journey brother and congratulations on on your decision to believe in yourself. Faster, Further, Higher brother!
Hey Marvin! Thanks very much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment. In terms of paying for school, many of the larger schools have an approved Sallie Mae student loan program in place.
I started at 42. I’m 44 and working as a CFI. and at this rate, getting my ATP by end of this year or next year. Just make your plans, just leave room for unexpected situations. Weather, MX, etc while you build your time. I’m with you where I’m open to the idea of both regionals and majors. Whatever will be better for me, but at this point I am leaning towards majors. Best of luck on your journey. And enjoy it!
Best video I could’ve found today! I’ve got to share via Fb with friends and family so that they can have a better idea of what exactly it is I’m doing at 55 years of age. I’m 55 (since May), and doing same. Currently (as of June/2024), at a part 141 academy, but not on a pathway program, which I’m currently trying very hard to become apart of now. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for these videos, found them inspiring.. I'm about to turn 50, and have just finished putting my oldest son through school at a part 141 school on his way to become a pilot (he's currently a CFI). I would love to make a career change and do this (I do agree, hanging out in the regional would be perfect). The trouble I can't figure out how to crack is to quit my current (well paying) career to make this leap.. the long term works (once you make it to a regional, you're making enough to live on), but the SHORT term is hard.. to train to get PP --> Instrument --> Commercial --> Multi is one thing (and if you can quit your job to laser focus on those that's one thing) but then AFTER that you'd still need to spend a few years building to 1,500hrs... I don't want to become a CFI in the meantime, and it feels like you need around 500hrs to get any sort of reasonably regular job to build from.. so getting over that hurdle of supporting myself and my wife for a few years while my current income has gone away (while working on all the things to get the minumums for an ATP) seems daunting
I guess it all comes down to what is more important to you, your annual income, each year or the type of work you are engaged in day-to-day. It definitely does not have to take a few years to get to 1599 hours. My mentor did it in one year. As for getting to 500 hours, if you have a healthy income, go buy a share of an airplane and just fly yourself around. Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Thank you for the inspiration I am about 20 years behind you, and I felt it was too late for me to become a pilot. Hearing your story really inspires me to get back into it. I also encourage you to keep at it, and don't worry what others say about your age.
Thanks for making these videos!! Looking forward to seeing your progress! I’m 35 just starting out. It was encouraging to hear somebody else a little bit older than me still wanting to make it into the airlines!
Thank you trent. At 28 I had no Idea what I wanted to do. But I think this might be a career worth pursuing. Great pay, amazing job, and no exploitation of their workers. I need to do more digging but my heart tells me thisis it.
I was really surprised and amazed by the fact you are getting your tests out of the way in such a short time......dedication and discipline is the key. Your two videos on this have actually encouraged me to go after the dream and not be afraid of pursuing it. Thanks once again for sharing.
Thanks so much. I started at 57 and I don't care about people telling me I can't do something. I am in a part 141 school. Like you I have another income and I just want to fly. I have a Master's degree in IT. My office space is a view out of the front window of an airplane. Us older pilots have great work ethics, study habits and a very focused vision. I am in instrument right now and will have all of my certs by August, then into teaching.
Dont let anyone dissuade from doing what you want to do. If becoming a commercial pilot is what you want to do then go for it. The only one that can stop you is you if you give up. However the $413 for being a check airman is very specific to Skywest. Check airmen at other airlines (even the majors airlines) do not make that kind of pay. While living in base is a laudable goal - it will be easy to get Boise as an FO. what you need to find out is how senior is BOI as a captain at Skywest. how long will it take as a captain to be able to hold BOI. as long as there is a captain vacancy at BOI then there are no issues. But Skywest tends to have lots of "lifers" people who have no aspirations to moving up. - that will be your blocker to being a Captain in BOI. Right now - with 1500 hrs, there is no need to go to a regional airline - instead people are getting on with LCCs like Southwest, Frontier, Spirit, JetBlue, Breeze, Avelo flying narrowbody 320s/737s - in addition to going to the regional airlines flying regional jets -- the problem with regional airlines is that regional captains are being hired faster than the regional airline can replace the captains - so that means there are no captains for the FOs to fly with... That is why Skywest is paying that much for Check Airmen -- to entice them to temporarily sacrifice their career for the Skywest to keep them from going on to the majors. For someone starting in the 50's you don't have a lot of time to keep restarting at the bottom of the seniority list. Even when you get to Skywest - there will be maximum salary cap - LCCs/majors will always have higher income potential so although the $400+ check airman pay sounds tempting - is that rate in the pilot contract? if it is not - then the $400+ pay rate for check airman is not contractrally guaranteed and it is a temporary thing and when the check airman shortage at skywest goes away - the pay will revert what ever is in the contract - so check on that check airman pay rate - is that something that is contractually negotiated at skywest? I doubt it is. Anyways TLDR - don't let anyone dissuade from being a commercial pilot - but there are lots of caveats - you may want to research going to LCCs - they are looking for people who don't want to move on to the majors - so are looking for older pilots who will stay to finish out their careers. I have lots of 1500hr brand new FOs that have come straight from flight school sitting in an A320 without ever going to a regional - also lots of 1700hr FOs that just came from Skywest and other regionals - because they coudln't get flight time because there couldn't get paired with captains. and then the 23 year old new FOs are hired by American, United, and Delta after a few months. So it's an exciting time to be an airline pilot. make sure you check for all of the pitfalls - and it's all about the contract - you live and die by it. Good Luck.
That’s a lot of detailed information for me to look into. Thank you so much! Shortly after filming, the video, you watched, I spoke at length with a captain from Southwest Airlines, and he encouraged me to get with majors as soon as possible. He definitely made it sound. very interesting.
It is a risky career...any moment this guy can lose his license due to medical and then what...probably He is well off and has money/time to throw around and play with...so advising others to this path is not a responsible stunt...
I am 55 and have recently been seriously considering my retirement plans and financial future. I started my holistic health clinic 10 years ago this month and just two years ago completed my pilots license to use for enjoyment and relaxation in flying. What I have realized is that I have fallen in love with aviation and felt miserable that I may have passed up my calling in life as I found the love of flying so late in life. I just wanted to thank you for your posting your journey to earning six figures as a pilot within 18 months. I connected and absorbed what you had to say that almost was like an epiphany and gave me the confidence to move forward. I have allot of questions and will be reviewing the rest of your videos but am excited to lay out a plan to create a nice retirement in aviation. I will be reaching out to you and hope to someday shake your hand. I'm ready to get busy with achieving my instrument and push forward through the progression. Thank you, Trent! P.S. I'm sure I will have questions after viewing the rest of your videos in your journey and would like to reach out to you if possible. What is the best way to do that?
Hell yeah, man! Love your view on life, on financial choices and on going for what you truly want. I'm a Swedish business owner, UA-camr, artist and musician, mechanical engineer and Private Pilot living in Los Angeles, who's thinking of getting into the airlines as well. Best of luck, and I'll be following your journey! W.
Trent - This is amazing. I just discovered your videos about this (starting with this one), and it's really inspiring. I'm only 41, but I'm looking for something fun to do as a 2nd job, and I've always wanted to start flying. This video gave me a lot of encouragement and excitement to start pursing it! Thank you so much for this series, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how it works out for you!
I love you logical reasoning to start this career. It makes perfect sense to stay in the Regionals. I wish you the best and I hope you continue to post your journey
I love how you give advice by the way, Trent, by saying it might or might not be the right thing to do. I find that the older generation that’s now in their 60s loves to tell people what to do based on what they think you should do or based on how the industry was 30 years ago.
Trent - how do you plan to build time after school to get into those better jobs. Having not looked recently, I thought the minimums to get these good commercial jobs are around 1500 hours.
@@trent_dyrsmid As an instructor 125 sounds like a stretch. i average 50 a month part time and thats really hard. A lot of my co workers are full time and average 60 per month and they are there all day. Another co-worker is a Sky West FO and he said that the guys that had their own planes or are banner towers are the ones that failed out of the program. You need to make sure you are extremely instrument proficient.
Trent ,Franklin,I think that's great. I plan on doing the same thing,I'm 55. I'm looking at starting flight training at the end of this year. The CRJ and SkyWest are my plane and airline of choice. I wish you the best.I will follow your channel.
Hey Trent, I remember you from your process development videos for Amazon FBA sellers. I'm 51 and not pursuing an aviation career for myself, but my soon-to-graduate 18 year old IS going to flight training with an objective of flying commercial. So I've been watching lots of aviation videos and how cool it is today to see you on this new journey! I have no doubt you'll figure it out, just as you did for the other things you've undertaken in business. I'll be watching!
Wow...didn't expect to see a member of my business audience over here on my personal channel. I've been found out, lol! Glad to hear your son is getting an early start on a wonderful career :)
My friend 👋🏻 I'm 54, my father was a pilot and I've been seriously considering this jump as well! I'm soooooo glad I came across your channel! All the best 🏆 and please... Continue to upload anything and everything with regards to this topic 🙏 God speed and thank you!!!!
As a CFII myself, I wouldn't get your expectations up too high about completing your CFI/II (or even CMEL) within 4 months. Even flying twice a day, 7 days a week...especially in Ohio. A lot of things will have to fall in line for that to happen. Best of luck.
As I mentioned, in my video, I am not setting out to do anything with my friend and mentor has not already accomplished. Thank you so much for watching my video and leaving a comment!
What are you smoking? I’ve lived in Ohio my entire life, did all of my flight training here along with my 4 year aviation degree. My serious question to you is what we’re you doing that you couldn’t get your CFI/CFII in a 4 month time frame? There’s absolutely zero reason that you can’t complete BOTH of them in less than a month.
@robertrolley4161 did you even watch the video??? Not just CFI/CFII, but Instrument, CSEL, and CMEL. I did my instrument in 3 weeks, CMEL in 2, CFI in 3, CFII in 1, but not all back to back. What part of Ohio are you flying VFR twice a day for 120 consecutive days?
Well congratulations. I have first had knowledge from the other side. Last summer I was convinced to start a CFII Initial training program vs a traditional CFI Initial. For many reasons, that was a financial and emotional setback. While getting near the end of my training two of two CFII instructors were hired by the airlines. One on a Monday and the other on Tuesday. One was 48 and the other was 52 years old. Well starting on May 28th I am starting my CFI and CFII two week training at Venture North Aviation in MN. As a full-time middle school teacher at 74 years old, I want to make a living teaching flying. I also want to obtain my MEI. Just purchased an Aero Commander 500 Shrike. There is a path for the Dedicated. Thanks for the encouragement. Praying for your and my success this summer.
How funny, I was about to head to Skyborne as well and I am living in Boise. I decided to try and wrap up my CFI in Caldwell and see where that takes me at age 42. Good luck!
Great video! I’m 52 and looking to get back into aviation as a living. I had a past career as an A&P and have always had my ppl. Always have had a love for aviation.
Hey Frank… That is because aviation is so easy to love! I literally just finished a trip into the date in Airport in Back to my homebase. I have for the whole way, and it was a blast!
Trent, I’m a 38 yo laid off individual and really thinking about career 2.0. I want to do something I love rather than just chase dollars for 30 more years. Despite my strong pull to aviation, I feel really late to the game here as the pilot shortage is no secret and there are plenty of people ahead of me in line. However, your videos are intriguing and encouraging and I just may start taking real action to get going in the near future! Thanks for your content and being a source of encouragement to us all!
Dane… check out the Boeing pilot shortage report. The wave of retirement is no joke and it’s not going to go away anytime soon. I’m not saying that you should act based upon my advice. I’m suggesting that you should really dig into the research and talk to as many people as you can before making a decision.
32 looking to change up my pace of life and want to jump in head first. I have worked for myself for years and contemplated joining the military to travel and see the world but being a pilot seams like the lifestyle I’ve been searching for.
So glad I stumbled on this video. About 5 months ago I wanted to do a similar path (I just turned 40). I am going to now pursue this as a career after thinking about it for 6 months. I am part owner in a family business so there is some things to navigate but I can’t wait. I’ll be following along on your journey!
Not that you need any encouragement from me, you seem like a pretty motivated person but good luck on your journey. Don’t give in to the negativity. Hard work always pays off. I remember when I was 20 years and trying to get my Pilots license. Money was the main reason I quit but I also gave in to those Debbie downers. Fast forward 15 years I work for Delta Air Lines overseeing flight operations. Now money isn’t the issue like it once was. I’m now preparing to finish what I started by going through Delta’s Propel program for current employees. So hopefully in the near future I will be sharing the same big blue sky!
Thank you for sharing your plan/info. I was in a 141 school 20 years ago and quit days before my commercial check ride, do have my private and instrument ratings though. I'm now a 48 year old burnt out Network Engineer and have been researching taking up flying again when I came across your video.
Good morning and thank you for this video with fantastic info. I too have been thinking about that career path. I am 57 , got my PPL back in 1988 with 125hrs. I went back up after 28yrs up in a ord152 and caught the bug. Listening to your comments, I want to move ahead this path Thank you
Hey Rob… Welcome to my channel. I’m happy to hear that you found inspiration in my contact. Thank you so much for watching my video and leaving a comment.
When I was growing up on my grandparents farm there was a guy the would always fly his ultralight. I always dreamed of flying but as I got older I never did. My 12 year old son told me he wanted to be a pilot when he grows up so last weekend a booked a discovery flight for him. I got to ride in the back. That was the first time I was ever in a small plane. It was amazing. It rekindled the dreams I had as a kid. I have been thinking about flying every day since then. I’m 50 and it seemed like getting a job flying was not very likely at my age but your video has inspired me. Thank you for making it.
Started the same journey at 51. Not moving as fast as I’d like, but love what you’re doing and will keep following. Glad you’ve got the books done. Good luck with the stick and rudder skills. I’ve got plenty of friends already at the airlines and lots of answers. Feel free to reach back.
Thank you so much for commenting on my video and offering to assist. If you don’t mind, please find me on Instagram and send me a DM so that I have a way to get a hold of you.
Can't wait to fly. Been trucking in Oilfields for 20 years❤❤❤. Obsessed with flying. I'm 52 years old. I'm tired of sitting in the back seats riding. Gotta get to the cock pit so I can drive the plane . No more diesel fuel.....Let's get to the Jet fuels...Thx for posting this video..
With respect, you are putting the cart before the nag. If you are ab initio then planning for the LHS in anything other than a tiny outfit operating from a meadow before even starting training and talking about captains’ remuneration - at your age FG’S tells me a lot about your motivations and likely disappointments.
Hey Rick… Thanks so much for watching the video and taking a moment to contribute to the community by leaving a comment. Many more videos yet to come, so if you don’t want to miss them, please subscribe.
Great video! I am 47. A fireman in Redondo Beach. It was good to watch your video. I bought a 150 a while back and just have been cranking out the hours. I retire in about 5 to 6 years with my pension and some other investments will be around $20,000 a month. And I am on your path to either fly for a regional or cooperate. Haven’t decided yet. Just enjoying the process.
I can tell from how you have attacked your exams you will be successful. As a retired airline pilot I consider it a professional obligation to mentor others as the path can be rocky and demanding. There are great opportunities now. My primary advice would be to do as you are with focus and determination and minimal delay. The reason that the check airmen are paid so highly at the regionals is that they have massive training requirements that cannot be done without them. The salary is to stop the majors from picking off their experienced pilots.
Hey Larry… I always love hearing from someone with your level of experience in the industry. Thank you so much for contributing to the community by leaving your comments and watching my video! If you’d like to see more, please be sure to subscribe as I have many more videos planned.
Trent. I did subscribe. Since you are about to start flying I have a suggestion that will help your progress. I call it chair flying or mentally practicing your flight and procedures on the ground. Do this in as much detail as you can imagine. As an example. Practice a stall in your mind but not just the obvious aspects. Imagine the ailerons getting sloppy. Look at airspeed indicator. Imagine the burble on the tail and the height of the nose above the horizon. Imagine a wing dropping and not picking it up the wing with aileron but only rudder. Look at the altimeter for sinking. Do this over and over again until it becomes second nature. To state the obvious know your procedures but more than that sit in an aircraft on the ramp and go through all the checks physically touching the switches and mentally positioning the controls. This will save you money. Plodding through a start sequence is expensive and time is better spent in the air. You will find that part of your memory is geographical. As the aircraft becomes more complex this physical location memory greatly aids your flying. Building experience in your mind will accelerate your learning curve and reduce the natural anxiety that comes with maneuvers like stalls. Hope this helps. Enjoy your flying. Cheers Larry
Hey Larry… Thank you so much for the detailed and sound advice. I’m a big believer in sheriff line. I actually brought my flight simulator with me in my RV and I’m using it regularly. It is an invaluable training tool.
Im 42 and I took my first ground school lesson yesterday, and I am terrified about spending all this money and not being able to find a job after I am done. I honestly couldnt care less about working for a major airline. I'd be happy flying for a regional airline or cargo for the rest of my life.
My college health professor, Dr Green, started med school at 52 years old. When we started his college class, he said if anyone can guess his age he would bump up your final grade by one. No one guessed it right because he looked 50 yrs old. Turns out he was 74. All that to say that not only did he choose a completely new career, he did a much harder vocation at an older age and used his knowledge along the way to take care of his health (he was huge on diet and light cardio). So if you’re older, just know that you can do it. I got my IFR at 35 and my CFII was 23 yrs old. That’s life, have fun with it :)
Hi Trent, 50 year old airline pilot here. I started at 35, love my career and I’m looking forward to following your progress. If I could give you one piece of advice, I’d recommend some type of daily mental exercise to keep your brain sharp. I have over 10000 hours, including 737 and 787, and to be honest, recurrent training in the sim gets harder every year. My brain just isn’t as sharp as it was 10 years ago, meaning I have to prepare twice as hard as I used to before getting in the sim. Anyway, I can’t wait to see how you do, and always encourage people to get into flying. Cheers! Cam
Hey great video, I saw you posted a comment on a pilot forum I'm on.. I am 43, and taking my commercial checkride on Aug 21st. I am always a bit concerned with the amount of time I'll have to make a good living. Thanks again and fly safe.
Great video Trent. I appreciate your content! I’m 37 and looking at a second career in the airlines while doing real estate too. Not far from you, over in Oregon.
Really good information, and I enjoyed your video a lot. I recently came back to Flying after a 13 year absence in about to upgrade to captain and a regional based in Miami the only thing I would maybe ask you to reconcile Trent, about not going to what major is this, the stability, long-term, since the regionals have proven that even the best ones eventually get sold off or go out of business. Also, if you decide to change your mind in five years, you’ve now giving up five years of seniority at a major. I’m not saying, I know the best thing to do, because I may very well stay at my Regional for the rest of my career since I am making 200 and I’m 42 years old.
Thanks for making these videos Trent. You've inspired me to look into starting an aviation career in my mid 30s, having worked successfully as an architect for the past decade. The community that you've brought together in the comments is also inspiring. I've always had a passion for flying since a young age when I bought a copy of Microsoft Flight Simulator 95.
Great video. I'm a 48 year old with aviation experience, a CPL with multi IFR, jet experience, 2000 hrs and I'm struggling with whether or not it's too late for me to get back into it. Great video, I needed to hear it.
Thank you! I always wanted to fly. I have some real estate holdings enough to make my mtg. I am 56 years old. I want to do this!! I want this!!! Thank you for your video.
I am 56 and in great shape, figured I was too old but would kill to do this. I was an attorney for 25 years and do not wan to go near that career again.
Thanks so much for watching my video and contributing to the community by leaving your comment. I’ve got more videos planned. It will help answer your questions as well as the many many questions I have received from others.
Hey Trent, i thank the UA-cam algorithm for bringing me across your channel. I am 36yrs old this year and finally pursuing my dream career as a pilot. After living and working in China for the last 7 years, I'm heading back home to South Africa on the 2nd of May and starting my training ASAP after seeing family. I'm going to be doing it full-time, starting with PPL and then straight onto Commercial. I will also do my instructors rating! Might consider starting a UA-cam channel and go through the steps,procedures and costs involved. Might be useful to share with others so they can compare the overall cost and experience of doing your training in another country. Looking forward to your next video. Blue skies
FYI the massive airline pilot shortage is really an experienced pilot shortage; a lack of Captains or Captain eligible pilots (1,000 hours Part 121 time). What’s happening is Captains who don’t want to remain at a regional until retirement are getting hired very quickly by major and legacy carriers. First Officers are also getting hired by the majors without any time as a Captain. Not saying things will still be the same when you have your 1,500 hours but be aware that right now it’s actually very difficult to get hired as a First Officer at any regional airline (including through cadet programs). The regionals are simply not putting new FOs in the first available class (waitlists of upwards of a year + are happening) because there is no use in hiring, training and paying first officers if there aren’t enough captains to fly with them.
You make good points… And I’m well aware that things could be significantly different in 18 months. I’ve never been a person to need a security, blanket, however. I’m quite happy to pay my money and take my chances.
I'll be 53 in June. I'm trying to get my medical for a ppl, but there are a couple things the FAA needs to check into. Thanks for the video. Do the thing!!
You may not have flight experience , but you have lots of life experience bro and that is gold when it comes to common sense as a captain . Sure you can make it .
Thank you for this great video giving so many flight enthusiasts new energy! I am just 37 and can't count the times that I heard, I'm too old to become a professional pilot. Flying has been my passion for a long time and I keep in heading towards my dream. And I wish you all the best luck and success for reaching your goals 🎉
Fantastic video, as a pilot who started when I was quite young (15) and then started teaching when I was 18, it is very possible to do the route you are taking. Excited to see how this unfolds in future videos. Best of luck.
Hey Trent great content. Thanks for making these videos. Don’t worry about not knowing everything there’s beauty in you being vulnerable and admitting that you are learning as you go. You will be learning for the rest of your aviation career. I’m 48 and just earned my commercial certificate earlier this week. I’m starting to work on my CFI lesson plans (I have all my CFI and CFII writtens completed). I like you am working and going to the airlines and I think I’ll be happy just getting to fly jets for my living that who it’s with isn’t as important as the QOL aspects. Keep on keeping on and make sure you remain flexible as this journey can and will throw you curveballs.
Just one piece of advice from a 45 year airline veteran...your one and only motivation to become a pilot should be the passion for flying. If you go in for the money or for any other reason you are doomed. Being an airline pilot is extremely demanding, constantly tested and graded, studying all the time just to keep up, so if you don't LOVE it then trust me, you will be miserable. I wish you all the best, it's the best profession in the world, and as I tell people, I've never worked a day in my life, I just lived my dream of flying...blue skies
I am doing this purely for the passion. I’ve been focused on making money my entire life…. And that is why I am doing a career change to something that I love.
@@seemore7327 you mad bro?
Man gave a passionate response. You come in hot with name calling.
Who hurt you? Lets talk about your insecurities.
Stupid baby boomer comment , money DOES matter this isn’t the 70s where everything’s cheap , want to survive and have a decent life that pays bills ? Money is important. Comments like that are part of the problem of why pilots in the US made crap money for years. Don’t care about money? Go work at McDonald’s
@@seemore7327 why are you so angry/sad?
Compared to business?
10 years ago I sat in my first 121 indoc class at age 46. 10 years later I'm flying a 777 for a major airline. You can do this. DO NOT let anyone say you cant. I look forward to following your journey. Good luck!
Thank you so much for watching my video and taking a moment to leave a comment. Much appreciated!
Very Cool! Can I ask your path? Flight instructor to Regional to Majors? Thanks!!!
@@vortexgaming8761 Exactly. Worked through all the ratings. Payed as I went, no loans. Taught for 4 years, almost 1400 hours of dual given. Then two different regionals flying E175's and on to a major. 737 initially and now the 777. I leave for Seoul tonight.
Wow this thread is awesome, just turned 31 been in b2b sales for 8 years and really want to jump in, but fund myself gradually. You’re all an inspiration
🙌
Bravo to you for perusing your dream while you can still make it happen. I started flight training at age 66 and got my PPL at 67 (3 years ago). Now at 70, instrument rated, and I'm a co-owner of a Cessna 172 with my son and we are having a blast with $100 hamburger runs, flying all the grandkids and last year flew to Oshkosh and participated in the Cessna mass arrival. Looking to follow your flight adventure.
Sounds fantastic! Thank you so much for watching my video and leaving a comment.
Awesome 💖 I’m looking forward to be living the aviation life
I work at an airline but not a pilot YET
Yet, being the key word 🙌
I'm with you. I just turned 69 and will start pursuing my PPL in about 60 days. Want to get my 10 YO Grandaughter involved so that by time she turns 16, she will have her own PPL.
✈️✈️🙌
You did your research on how-to attain an airline job👍🏻. Motivation is the key to achieving it! Also, at retirement age of 65 (may soon be increased to 68), you can get a corporate flying job as captain. I did all that you are working on, when I was 16. In 1978, at age 25, I landed my airline job, starting as f/o on the DC-9. Fast forward to my 65th birthday in 2018, I retired with 28 years on the B767, having had a 40 year airline career. What a ride, and the experiences I had are memorable. Now at 70, I fly my 1947 v tail Bonanza.
Hi David, thanks for watching. What a fantastic life you have lead!
@davidmangold1838 - Impressive! Also, I f you have a son named “Jon” and he works for one of the majors on the Ramp then I know him.
@@sirferr3870 I have no relations. I’m 70, and ALL have died off🥴. Plus my dad was born a GOULD, and was adopted by Mangold, so half my family is not really related-that I know of.
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I’m 50 years old with a private multi almost enough hours for my commercial but getting ready to study for my instrument and want to go to the airlines as a mid career life change I really appreciate your video it gives me more motivation as it is scary being 50 and trying to change careers
Hey Chris, I have talked to a ton of professional pilots, and not one of them has discouraged me from doing this at my age. Get after it!
@@trent_dyrsmid I also just turned 50, I got my PPL at 33 and quit flying at 237hrs after kids and the 2008 crash. I bought a C150 and am piling on every hour I can. I'm about to take my Instrument check ride and just crossed the 700hr mark tonight! Midlife career change is scary but I have received great advise and encouragement by my friends that are well established in the industry! Let's do this!
Heck ya!
I’m in the exact same boat. 49 y/o and have some flying time (200 hrs ish). Am seriously considering a switch to flying full time.
Do it :)
Stumpled upon this video today. Glad I did. I’m 43, inherited a passion for aviation from my dad who used to work ground for Piedmont and I’m a burnt out software developer who is just wanting a new start. Unfortunately, I don’t have an entrepreneur background, nor the resources to pause income to start going back into school (kids, mortgage, etc), so I’ll have to go much more slowly than I’d like, but your video has helped given me the encouragement I needed to continue with my plans and passion. Thanks
You have time on your side!! There are numerous schools that have approved financing packages from Fannie Mae…so you don’t have to have the cash. Of course, you do still need a way to pay for your life while you train.
YOU… MOTIVATE ME!! I’m about to get my PPL and have been asking what am I going to do after this. Commercial will take a lot of time and money but after watching your videos, I am going for it. I’m as old as you are as well. Wanted to go to the Naval Academy when I was in high school but was not accepted because “I was Duke Mitchell’s kid”. Lost that desire to fly in college but pursuing my dream again last year! I am so excited. Best wishes to you!! We are all cheering for you!
Thanks so much! I really appreciate the encouraging comment!
Hell yes! So happy to see you going for this, Trent! I turn 53 in December. I'm a Detroit-based CFI with approx. 1,350 hours (1,000hrs earned just this past 12 months). Like you, I'm in the SkyWest Pilot Pathway program and am currently going through their pilot application process. All things going well, I could very well be in an FO class by the end of this year. My wife and children are fully supportive of my career change and we've been financially able to make it happen which has removed a lot of potential stress and uncertainty.
You are never too old to follow your dreams! Git 'er done! Perhaps I'll meet you one day soon flying the SkyWest line?!!
Hey Simon! I just completed the first part of my plan. I now have all the ratings that I need, including a CFI, CFII, and MEI. Now I’ll work as an instructor on my way to the 1500 hours I need to get a Skywest class date.
See you in a cockpit one day!
I made a comment on your other vid. I'm 51 and have my private... but I'm changing careers. I'm currently a SkyWest Cadet. I would recommend looking into it... it seems like a no brainer to get tied into them... plus if your school is a primer school... they give back $17,500 reimbursement once you start flying with them. Plus first year FO is $95K... so that's over $112 your first year. AND.... they are upgrading to Capt as soon as you hit your 1000 hrs. At the last meeting they said guys were doing it in less than 2 years FO to Capt
Thank you so much for your comment! I am already a Skywest cadet. Super cool to hear directly from you on how fast I could get to captain as that is even better than what I thought.
A friend of mine who works for skywest just replied to a text that I sent him with a screenshot of your comment and he said that guys are making it to captain in as fast as a year 🤯😁
@@trent_dyrsmid Yep. 1000hrs, an you can upgrade. There was a small rumor going around that they weren't hiring since new FO couldn't get sim time. BUT... the realty is, they had so many upgrades, that the sim and classrooms were full of FO-Capt upgrades. We were talking about it a little a couple days ago on the last pilot workshop. They aren't mandatory, but sign up for them. THe first hour is the lecture, and the second is Q&A. The next one is may 18th.
@@trent_dyrsmid Oh... one more thing. the new SWC (SkyWest Charter) is budling up. I fly out of KJST and there is 4 of the jets sitting on the apron. They are hiring Capt's... but the word is, low hour cadets will be able to apply for FO. Since it's part 135, the 1500 rule doesn't apply. Keep your eye open for that.
Good to know!! Thank for sharing that nugget!!
46 years old with commercial multi instrument. I started in my 20’s right after 9/11 and the aviation industry went to crap. Went to one of the ‘bigger’ schools in Florida came out with a bunch of ratings a few hundred hours but back then it wasn’t feasible to keep waiting for things to rebound. Had to move onto other things in life but have recently started to get the ‘bug’ again. This video and all the information you’ve collected and shared has really got me thinking as well. My age has been my only worry but from what your saying it doesn’t really have to be. Keep on keeping on with your dreams and thanks so much for sharing!!
Thanks for checking out my video and leaving a comment!
I am exactly like you. Commercial Multi Instrument about 400 hours. Started in my 20s in the early 2000s. Went to the big flight school in Florida. Got the bug again started retraining again. I'm on flight number "2." The muscle memory is there. I'm doing things automatically without knowing why. Get back in the air, chase the dream...
Exactly!
Yep.
I’m glad I found this video. I am 51, own a business that is now running itself, and am seriously considering becoming a commercial pilot. I started my pilot training 25 years ago, but some events in life kept me from finishing. For me, money doesn’t really matter. My business is successful and can provide for me. It’s more about the love of flying for me.
Hi James… Thanks for watching my video. I can completely relate to your comment. Same boat for me.
So cool to hear and watch your journey. I leave May 1st as well, heading to Goodyear, AZ to start the United Aviate program on May 8th. I have 0 hours, no PPL, and will be 43 in July. Keep us posted.
That is great to hear! Thanks for checking out my video and leaving a comment. Please come back and give us more updates as you progress, ok?
Hey Justin I went through the United Aviate selection process and made it all the way to the written test, then unfortunately not selected. Enjoyed the process. I'm now 54
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@@sophiasocal68 what was the written test like ?
@JayJay-fd8yy There were sections asking about number patterns and whether or not you knew the difference between .01 and .10
It was section by section. Initially I didn't think I passed but I did and was very surprised. United did say I could re-apply if I wanted but I only have like 7 years after training to offer a 121 carrier so I'm thinking maybe try my luck in the corporate or cargo pool next.
Nothing is impossible. I was homeless, living in a cave on the coast of South Africa a few years ago. I have since started three small businesses and have also started my PPL training a month ago. Although affording it is going to be a massive challenge, I am up for it. And I am not stopping there either. My life's dream was to be a Flight Instructor. I love teaching people and I love flying. And at almost 52, I am chasing that dream. So keep the faith brother, nothing, and I do mean NOTHING is impossible.
I thought you were being facetious at first. Incredible story. Great attitude!
I couldn’t agree more! Thanks for watching my video and leaving a comment.
Wow, impressive, keep it up Chris !
Right?!?!
Well I'm guessing 57 is ti late,I was gonna shoot for regionals years ago but just never did it! Kick myself every day! I guess I'll be happy with ppl ... just want to fly! Your story is amazing! Stick with it! Your gonna make it happen! Good on ya brother!
Hey Trent! I just discovered you and your page. I love this video and what you're doing I had to subscribe. Buddy I believe in you and I'm inspired! I just turned 41 and I've dreamed of flying my entire life. About 3 months ago my younger brother (age 37) decided we're going for our dream of becoming airlines pilots. But one of the things we did a ton of research on was this very topic...is it too late for me and we, like you have received a ton of enc from the pilot community. You got this man! You totally got this buddy! Use the negative comments as fuel for the fire that burns in you brother! At the moment we are still researching and trying to find a way to pay for training and also deciding what school we want to attend, but someday soon we'll be sharing the sky together and hopefully we'll meet and sit back and laugh about how people told us we would fail. Good luck on your journey brother and congratulations on on your decision to believe in yourself. Faster, Further, Higher brother!
Hey Marvin! Thanks very much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment. In terms of paying for school, many of the larger schools have an approved Sallie Mae student loan program in place.
I started at 42. I’m 44 and working as a CFI. and at this rate, getting my ATP by end of this year or next year. Just make your plans, just leave room for unexpected situations. Weather, MX, etc while you build your time.
I’m with you where I’m open to the idea of both regionals and majors. Whatever will be better for me, but at this point I am leaning towards majors.
Best of luck on your journey. And enjoy it!
Thanks so much!
I'm turning 40 in June. I guess all is not lost lol
Would love to hear more about your path man! I'm 44 too. I have been flying for a few years, but now I am thinking about making the jump.
More to come…
Best video I could’ve found today! I’ve got to share via Fb with friends and family so that they can have a better idea of what exactly it is I’m doing at 55 years of age.
I’m 55 (since May), and doing same. Currently (as of June/2024), at a part 141 academy, but not on a pathway program, which I’m currently trying very hard to become apart of now.
Keep up the great work!
Thank you…and good luck to you in your exciting journey ✅
Thanks for these videos, found them inspiring.. I'm about to turn 50, and have just finished putting my oldest son through school at a part 141 school on his way to become a pilot (he's currently a CFI). I would love to make a career change and do this (I do agree, hanging out in the regional would be perfect). The trouble I can't figure out how to crack is to quit my current (well paying) career to make this leap.. the long term works (once you make it to a regional, you're making enough to live on), but the SHORT term is hard.. to train to get PP --> Instrument --> Commercial --> Multi is one thing (and if you can quit your job to laser focus on those that's one thing) but then AFTER that you'd still need to spend a few years building to 1,500hrs... I don't want to become a CFI in the meantime, and it feels like you need around 500hrs to get any sort of reasonably regular job to build from.. so getting over that hurdle of supporting myself and my wife for a few years while my current income has gone away (while working on all the things to get the minumums for an ATP) seems daunting
I guess it all comes down to what is more important to you, your annual income, each year or the type of work you are engaged in day-to-day.
It definitely does not have to take a few years to get to 1599 hours. My mentor did it in one year.
As for getting to 500 hours, if you have a healthy income, go buy a share of an airplane and just fly yourself around.
Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Thank you for the inspiration I am about 20 years behind you, and I felt it was too late for me to become a pilot. Hearing your story really inspires me to get back into it. I also encourage you to keep at it, and don't worry what others say about your age.
You can do it! Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!
Thanks for making these videos!! Looking forward to seeing your progress!
I’m 35 just starting out. It was encouraging to hear somebody else a little bit older than me still wanting to make it into the airlines!
35!!! You have decades of fun ahead of you!!
Holy hell. I’m about to turn 30 and hearing this was exactly what I need, thank you
Glad I could help!
Thank you trent. At 28 I had no Idea what I wanted to do. But I think this might be a career worth pursuing. Great pay, amazing job, and no exploitation of their workers. I need to do more digging but my heart tells me thisis it.
I’m happy to hear that! Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
I was really surprised and amazed by the fact you are getting your tests out of the way in such a short time......dedication and discipline is the key. Your two videos on this have actually encouraged me to go after the dream and not be afraid of pursuing it. Thanks once again for sharing.
Thanks for watching my video and posting some words of encouragement. Much appreciated!
Congrats. Doing the exact same thing now; 53 as well. Good luck!
Gentlemen….start your engines!!! Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Thanks so much. I started at 57 and I don't care about people telling me I can't do something. I am in a part 141 school. Like you I have another income and I just want to fly. I have a Master's degree in IT. My office space is a view out of the front window of an airplane. Us older pilots have great work ethics, study habits and a very focused vision. I am in instrument right now and will have all of my certs by August, then into teaching.
We are on the same schedule! Thanks for watching :)
@ronmachisen - can we be friends? Seriously.
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@@onethousandtwonortheast8848 let me know what you want to know. I’ll be happy to give you the info I know.
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Dont let anyone dissuade from doing what you want to do. If becoming a commercial pilot is what you want to do then go for it. The only one that can stop you is you if you give up. However the $413 for being a check airman is very specific to Skywest. Check airmen at other airlines (even the majors airlines) do not make that kind of pay. While living in base is a laudable goal - it will be easy to get Boise as an FO. what you need to find out is how senior is BOI as a captain at Skywest. how long will it take as a captain to be able to hold BOI. as long as there is a captain vacancy at BOI then there are no issues. But Skywest tends to have lots of "lifers" people who have no aspirations to moving up. - that will be your blocker to being a Captain in BOI. Right now - with 1500 hrs, there is no need to go to a regional airline - instead people are getting on with LCCs like Southwest, Frontier, Spirit, JetBlue, Breeze, Avelo flying narrowbody 320s/737s - in addition to going to the regional airlines flying regional jets -- the problem with regional airlines is that regional captains are being hired faster than the regional airline can replace the captains - so that means there are no captains for the FOs to fly with... That is why Skywest is paying that much for Check Airmen -- to entice them to temporarily sacrifice their career for the Skywest to keep them from going on to the majors. For someone starting in the 50's you don't have a lot of time to keep restarting at the bottom of the seniority list. Even when you get to Skywest - there will be maximum salary cap - LCCs/majors will always have higher income potential so although the $400+ check airman pay sounds tempting - is that rate in the pilot contract? if it is not - then the $400+ pay rate for check airman is not contractrally guaranteed and it is a temporary thing and when the check airman shortage at skywest goes away - the pay will revert what ever is in the contract - so check on that check airman pay rate - is that something that is contractually negotiated at skywest? I doubt it is. Anyways TLDR - don't let anyone dissuade from being a commercial pilot - but there are lots of caveats - you may want to research going to LCCs - they are looking for people who don't want to move on to the majors - so are looking for older pilots who will stay to finish out their careers. I have lots of 1500hr brand new FOs that have come straight from flight school sitting in an A320 without ever going to a regional - also lots of 1700hr FOs that just came from Skywest and other regionals - because they coudln't get flight time because there couldn't get paired with captains. and then the 23 year old new FOs are hired by American, United, and Delta after a few months. So it's an exciting time to be an airline pilot. make sure you check for all of the pitfalls - and it's all about the contract - you live and die by it. Good Luck.
That’s a lot of detailed information for me to look into. Thank you so much! Shortly after filming, the video, you watched, I spoke at length with a captain from Southwest Airlines, and he encouraged me to get with majors as soon as possible. He definitely made it sound. very interesting.
As a part 121 ground instructor, I can say this is TOTALLY possible.
Can you go tell all the trolls that please? Bahahahaha.
I’m obsessed with aviation and earned my PPL in 2002. I am 40 now and unable to hold an FAA medical due to health issues. All the best to you!
It is a risky career...any moment this guy can lose his license due to medical and then what...probably He is well off and has money/time to throw around and play with...so advising others to this path is not a responsible stunt...
Hey Corey, so sorry to hear that. Thank you for watching my video and leaving an encouraging comment!
@@trent_dyrsmid The great thing for you Trent will be to fly for a Part 91 or 135 company (i.e. NetJets) after you retire from the airlines at 65!
Exaaactly!
The key to success is to have a vision and a plan of where you want to be and you have that in bucket loads.
I have no doubt that you can make it.
Thx Peter!
I am 55 and have recently been seriously considering my retirement plans and financial future. I started my holistic health clinic 10 years ago this month and just two years ago completed my pilots license to use for enjoyment and relaxation in flying. What I have realized is that I have fallen in love with aviation and felt miserable that I may have passed up my calling in life as I found the love of flying so late in life.
I just wanted to thank you for your posting your journey to earning six figures as a pilot within 18 months. I connected and absorbed what you had to say that almost was like an epiphany and gave me the confidence to move forward. I have allot of questions and will be reviewing the rest of your videos but am excited to lay out a plan to create a nice retirement in aviation. I will be reaching out to you and hope to someday shake your hand. I'm ready to get busy with achieving my instrument and push forward through the progression. Thank you, Trent!
P.S. I'm sure I will have questions after viewing the rest of your videos in your journey and would like to reach out to you if possible. What is the best way to do that?
Hi! Thanks for watching and commenting. You can DM me on Instagram.
Hell yeah, man! Love your view on life, on financial choices and on going for what you truly want. I'm a Swedish business owner, UA-camr, artist and musician, mechanical engineer and Private Pilot living in Los Angeles, who's thinking of getting into the airlines as well. Best of luck, and I'll be following your journey! W.
Walid! Stoked that you found me. You sound like an interesting dude. Glad to have you along for the ride!
@@trent_dyrsmid Absolutely. Exciting!
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Trent - This is amazing. I just discovered your videos about this (starting with this one), and it's really inspiring. I'm only 41, but I'm looking for something fun to do as a 2nd job, and I've always wanted to start flying. This video gave me a lot of encouragement and excitement to start pursing it! Thank you so much for this series, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how it works out for you!
Thx Zak. Stay tuned….😁
I love you logical reasoning to start this career. It makes perfect sense to stay in the Regionals. I wish you the best and I hope you continue to post your journey
Hi John...Thanks for watching. I plan to continue to share my journey as it unfolds :)
I love how you give advice by the way, Trent, by saying it might or might not be the right thing to do. I find that the older generation that’s now in their 60s loves to tell people what to do based on what they think you should do or based on how the industry was 30 years ago.
Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Trent - how do you plan to build time after school to get into those better jobs. Having not looked recently, I thought the minimums to get these good commercial jobs are around 1500 hours.
I'm going to work as an independent instructor. That is what my friend did...and he was able to average 125 hours a month teaching.
@@trent_dyrsmid I’d recommend just buying a plane like a Cessna 172 and fly the heck out of it and do some instrument time.
Might do that also...thought I'd prefer to buy just a 1/2 share of a plane.
@@trent_dyrsmid As an instructor 125 sounds like a stretch. i average 50 a month part time and thats really hard. A lot of my co workers are full time and average 60 per month and they are there all day. Another co-worker is a Sky West FO and he said that the guys that had their own planes or are banner towers are the ones that failed out of the program. You need to make sure you are extremely instrument proficient.
My mentor did it. If he can, so can I. I don't see the issue. Get 10 students and work 6 days a week.
Trent ,Franklin,I think that's great. I plan on doing the same thing,I'm 55. I'm looking at starting flight training at the end of this year. The CRJ and SkyWest are my plane and airline of choice. I wish you the best.I will follow your channel.
Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Hey Trent, I remember you from your process development videos for Amazon FBA sellers. I'm 51 and not pursuing an aviation career for myself, but my soon-to-graduate 18 year old IS going to flight training with an objective of flying commercial. So I've been watching lots of aviation videos and how cool it is today to see you on this new journey! I have no doubt you'll figure it out, just as you did for the other things you've undertaken in business. I'll be watching!
Wow...didn't expect to see a member of my business audience over here on my personal channel. I've been found out, lol!
Glad to hear your son is getting an early start on a wonderful career :)
Trent I’ve been in aviation 50 years. Military / freight. Good stuff. Suggest u change music or turn down. A big distraction from the meat.
Thanks for watching in sharing your thoughts!
My friend 👋🏻 I'm 54, my father was a pilot and I've been seriously considering this jump as well! I'm soooooo glad I came across your channel! All the best 🏆 and please... Continue to upload anything and everything with regards to this topic 🙏 God speed and thank you!!!!
Thanks Aldo! Many more videos to come yet :-)
Was great meeting you in the IFR class. All the best to you.
Hey Michael! Yes… Good to meet you as well. I had a fantastic flight in the clouds today. It was my first time an actual IFR conditions. What a trip!
53, always wanted to be a pilot, still want to but I have a soul calling to get going first. Looking forward to watching your progression.
Thanks, Henry! Hope to see you come back to watch more videos in the future. Don’t forget to subscribe :-)
Thank you!!! I’m 52 and needed this more for motivation than anything else !!!
You are so welcome! Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
As a CFII myself, I wouldn't get your expectations up too high about completing your CFI/II (or even CMEL) within 4 months. Even flying twice a day, 7 days a week...especially in Ohio. A lot of things will have to fall in line for that to happen. Best of luck.
As I mentioned, in my video, I am not setting out to do anything with my friend and mentor has not already accomplished. Thank you so much for watching my video and leaving a comment!
What are you smoking? I’ve lived in Ohio my entire life, did all of my flight training here along with my 4 year aviation degree. My serious question to you is what we’re you doing that you couldn’t get your CFI/CFII in a 4 month time frame? There’s absolutely zero reason that you can’t complete BOTH of them in less than a month.
@robertrolley4161 did you even watch the video??? Not just CFI/CFII, but Instrument, CSEL, and CMEL. I did my instrument in 3 weeks, CMEL in 2, CFI in 3, CFII in 1, but not all back to back. What part of Ohio are you flying VFR twice a day for 120 consecutive days?
The part with weather good enough for IFR training :)
Well congratulations. I have first had knowledge from the other side. Last summer I was convinced to start a CFII Initial training program vs a traditional CFI Initial. For many reasons, that was a financial and emotional setback. While getting near the end of my training two of two CFII instructors were hired by the airlines. One on a Monday and the other on Tuesday. One was 48 and the other was 52 years old. Well starting on May 28th I am starting my CFI and CFII two week training at Venture North Aviation in MN. As a full-time middle school teacher at 74 years old, I want to make a living teaching flying. I also want to obtain my MEI. Just purchased an Aero Commander 500 Shrike. There is a path for the Dedicated. Thanks for the encouragement. Praying for your and my success this summer.
Hey Karl… Thank you so much for watching my video and sharing your story.
How funny, I was about to head to Skyborne as well and I am living in Boise. I decided to try and wrap up my CFI in Caldwell and see where that takes me at age 42. Good luck!
Thanks Luke!
Great video! I’m 52 and looking to get back into aviation as a living. I had a past career as an A&P and have always had my ppl. Always have had a love for aviation.
Hey Frank… That is because aviation is so easy to love! I literally just finished a trip into the date in Airport in Back to my homebase. I have for the whole way, and it was a blast!
I'm 46 and started last October. This is very inspiring
Hey Peter, thanks so much for taking the time to watch my video and leave a comment!
Trent, I’m a 38 yo laid off individual and really thinking about career 2.0. I want to do something I love rather than just chase dollars for 30 more years. Despite my strong pull to aviation, I feel really late to the game here as the pilot shortage is no secret and there are plenty of people ahead of me in line. However, your videos are intriguing and encouraging and I just may start taking real action to get going in the near future! Thanks for your content and being a source of encouragement to us all!
Dane… check out the Boeing pilot shortage report. The wave of retirement is no joke and it’s not going to go away anytime soon. I’m not saying that you should act based upon my advice. I’m suggesting that you should really dig into the research and talk to as many people as you can before making a decision.
I am 43 and have been considering this for years! Thanks
You bet! Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
32 looking to change up my pace of life and want to jump in head first. I have worked for myself for years and contemplated joining the military to travel and see the world but being a pilot seams like the lifestyle I’ve been searching for.
🙌🙌 Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!
So glad I stumbled on this video. About 5 months ago I wanted to do a similar path (I just turned 40). I am going to now pursue this as a career after thinking about it for 6 months. I am part owner in a family business so there is some things to navigate but I can’t wait. I’ll be following along on your journey!
I’m excited for you. Thank you very much for watching my video and taking a moment to share a bit about your story.
Amazing! Go for it! I’m 39 working on my Instrument, can’t wait to go to the airlines
Thanks for watching my video and leaving a comment!
Good points, i’m 48 and starting more airplane training in July woth the same goals (former Army Helicopter pilot). Hope to see you in the air!
You bet! Thanks very much for watching my video.
Not that you need any encouragement from me, you seem like a pretty motivated person but good luck on your journey. Don’t give in to the negativity. Hard work always pays off. I remember when I was 20 years and trying to get my Pilots license. Money was the main reason I quit but I also gave in to those Debbie downers. Fast forward 15 years I work for Delta Air Lines overseeing flight operations. Now money isn’t the issue like it once was. I’m now preparing to finish what I started by going through Delta’s Propel program for current employees. So hopefully in the near future I will be sharing the same big blue sky!
That is so wonderful to hear! Best of luck to you on your journey and see you in the skies!
I'm 40 and considering getting into the industry, I've always wanted to fly!!!
Give it a serious look!
WOOO the algo is rocking!!!! havent see the video yet but im excited!!!
DO an income break down video those do amazing and are very motivating!
Hey David… Thank you so much for watching my video! I will definitely do an income break down once I have an income, lol
Thank you for sharing your plan/info. I was in a 141 school 20 years ago and quit days before my commercial check ride, do have my private and instrument ratings though. I'm now a 48 year old burnt out Network Engineer and have been researching taking up flying again when I came across your video.
Glad you found me and I hope I’ve inspired you to give it a serious look!
Good morning and thank you for this video with fantastic info.
I too have been thinking about that career path.
I am 57 , got my PPL back in 1988 with 125hrs. I went back up after 28yrs up in a ord152 and caught the bug.
Listening to your comments, I want to move ahead this path
Thank you
Hey Rob… Welcome to my channel. I’m happy to hear that you found inspiration in my contact. Thank you so much for watching my video and leaving a comment.
When I was growing up on my grandparents farm there was a guy the would always fly his ultralight. I always dreamed of flying but as I got older I never did. My 12 year old son told me he wanted to be a pilot when he grows up so last weekend a booked a discovery flight for him. I got to ride in the back. That was the first time I was ever in a small plane. It was amazing. It rekindled the dreams I had as a kid. I have been thinking about flying every day since then. I’m 50 and it seemed like getting a job flying was not very likely at my age but your video has inspired me. Thank you for making it.
Hey Mark…Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Started the same journey at 51. Not moving as fast as I’d like, but love what you’re doing and will keep following. Glad you’ve got the books done. Good luck with the stick and rudder skills. I’ve got plenty of friends already at the airlines and lots of answers. Feel free to reach back.
Thank you so much for commenting on my video and offering to assist. If you don’t mind, please find me on Instagram and send me a DM so that I have a way to get a hold of you.
Can't wait to fly. Been trucking in Oilfields for 20 years❤❤❤. Obsessed with flying. I'm 52 years old. I'm tired of sitting in the back seats riding. Gotta get to the cock pit so I can drive the plane . No more diesel fuel.....Let's get to the Jet fuels...Thx for posting this video..
Thanks for watching and leaving a comment! 🙌
With respect, you are putting the cart before the nag. If you are ab initio then planning for the LHS in anything other than a tiny outfit operating from a meadow before even starting training and talking about captains’ remuneration - at your age FG’S tells me a lot about your motivations and likely disappointments.
Thanks for watching my video and leaving a comment!
Go live your intentions, the time to get hired and earning potential is much different than when ( we ) I’m 53 also were 20.
Thanks for watching my video and leaving a comment!
I'm thinking of doing the same thing. Tired of running a construction company and I really want a change, so I am really rooting for you.
Thank you so much for watching my video and taking a moment to leave a comment. Much appreciated!
I think it is great what you are doing. I am also 53 and have thought about it myself. I can't wait to watch your path. Thanks for sharing it.
Hey Rick… Thanks so much for watching the video and taking a moment to contribute to the community by leaving a comment. Many more videos yet to come, so if you don’t want to miss them, please subscribe.
Great video! I am 47. A fireman in Redondo Beach. It was good to watch your video. I bought a 150 a while back and just have been cranking out the hours. I retire in about 5 to 6 years with my pension and some other investments will be around $20,000 a month. And I am on your path to either fly for a regional or cooperate. Haven’t decided yet. Just enjoying the process.
Hey Grant….you’re in a terrific place, my friend! All the best to you on the journey! Please come back and give us updates!
I can tell from how you have attacked your exams you will be successful. As a retired airline pilot I consider it a professional obligation to mentor others as the path can be rocky and demanding.
There are great opportunities now.
My primary advice would be to do as you are with focus and determination and minimal delay.
The reason that the check airmen are paid so highly at the regionals is that they have massive training requirements that cannot be done without them.
The salary is to stop the majors from picking off their experienced pilots.
Hey Larry… I always love hearing from someone with your level of experience in the industry. Thank you so much for contributing to the community by leaving your comments and watching my video! If you’d like to see more, please be sure to subscribe as I have many more videos planned.
Trent.
I did subscribe.
Since you are about to start flying I have a suggestion that will help your progress.
I call it chair flying or mentally practicing your flight and procedures on the ground.
Do this in as much detail as you can imagine.
As an example.
Practice a stall in your mind but not just the obvious aspects.
Imagine the ailerons getting sloppy.
Look at airspeed indicator.
Imagine the burble on the tail and the height of the nose above the horizon.
Imagine a wing dropping and not picking it up the wing with aileron but only rudder.
Look at the altimeter for sinking.
Do this over and over again until it becomes second nature.
To state the obvious know your procedures but more than that sit in an aircraft on the ramp and go through all the checks physically touching the switches and mentally positioning the controls. This will save you money. Plodding through a start sequence is expensive and time is better spent in the air.
You will find that part of your memory is geographical. As the aircraft becomes more complex this physical location memory greatly aids your flying.
Building experience in your mind will accelerate your learning curve and reduce the natural anxiety that comes with maneuvers like stalls.
Hope this helps.
Enjoy your flying.
Cheers
Larry
Hey Larry… Thank you so much for the detailed and sound advice. I’m a big believer in sheriff line. I actually brought my flight simulator with me in my RV and I’m using it regularly. It is an invaluable training tool.
Im 42 and I took my first ground school lesson yesterday, and I am terrified about spending all this money and not being able to find a job after I am done. I honestly couldnt care less about working for a major airline. I'd be happy flying for a regional airline or cargo for the rest of my life.
Thank you so much for watching and leaving a comment. It all helps my channel to grow and help more guys/gals like us!!
My college health professor, Dr Green, started med school at 52 years old. When we started his college class, he said if anyone can guess his age he would bump up your final grade by one.
No one guessed it right because he looked 50 yrs old. Turns out he was 74.
All that to say that not only did he choose a completely new career, he did a much harder vocation at an older age and used his knowledge along the way to take care of his health (he was huge on diet and light cardio).
So if you’re older, just know that you can do it. I got my IFR at 35 and my CFII was 23 yrs old. That’s life, have fun with it :)
Well said! Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Hi Trent, 50 year old airline pilot here. I started at 35, love my career and I’m looking forward to following your progress. If I could give you one piece of advice, I’d recommend some type of daily mental exercise to keep your brain sharp. I have over 10000 hours, including 737 and 787, and to be honest, recurrent training in the sim gets harder every year. My brain just isn’t as sharp as it was 10 years ago, meaning I have to prepare twice as hard as I used to before getting in the sim. Anyway, I can’t wait to see how you do, and always encourage people to get into flying. Cheers! Cam
I have a simulator at home and I am in it all the time. I also write a lot of dirt bikes. Both keep my mind sharp as well as my hand eye coordination.
Hey great video, I saw you posted a comment on a pilot forum I'm on.. I am 43, and taking my commercial checkride on Aug 21st. I am always a bit concerned with the amount of time I'll have to make a good living. Thanks again and fly safe.
Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
Great video Trent. I appreciate your content! I’m 37 and looking at a second career in the airlines while doing real estate too. Not far from you, over in Oregon.
Go for it! Thanks so much for watching one of my videos! I really appreciate you taking a moment to comment!
thank you for sharing your journey so far. I'm 46 and considering pursuing the pilot path.
👍👍👍👍👍
Thanks for putting this video out. encourage us to keep fighting for our dream of becoming commercial pilots.
Thanks for watching!
Earned a new subscriber. Very informative. Will def look into sportys / Sheppard!
Welcome aboard!
Really good information, and I enjoyed your video a lot. I recently came back to Flying after a 13 year absence in about to upgrade to captain and a regional based in Miami the only thing I would maybe ask you to reconcile Trent, about not going to what major is this, the stability, long-term, since the regionals have proven that even the best ones eventually get sold off or go out of business. Also, if you decide to change your mind in five years, you’ve now giving up five years of seniority at a major. I’m not saying, I know the best thing to do, because I may very well stay at my Regional for the rest of my career since I am making 200 and I’m 42 years old.
My current thinking is that going to a major as an FO could be just fine as long as my commute is SHORT :)
Thanks for making these videos Trent. You've inspired me to look into starting an aviation career in my mid 30s, having worked successfully as an architect for the past decade. The community that you've brought together in the comments is also inspiring. I've always had a passion for flying since a young age when I bought a copy of Microsoft Flight Simulator 95.
You can do it! I wish you all the best! Be sure to watch todays short.
Great video. I'm a 48 year old with aviation experience, a CPL with multi IFR, jet experience, 2000 hrs and I'm struggling with whether or not it's too late for me to get back into it. Great video, I needed to hear it.
Hi Dale… Welcome to my channel. Thank you so much for watching one of my videos and leaving a comment to let me know where you’re at!
Oh man you are such a inspiration for everyone who thinks its too late to start
You proved that age is just a number
More like an attitude, actually :)
You got yourself a new subscriber! I am so excited for you and look forward to seeing you accomplish you goal of becoming a commercial pilot.
Hey Bruce… Thanks so much. Welcome to the fly with Trent community!
Thank you! I always wanted to fly. I have some real estate holdings enough to make my mtg. I am 56 years old. I want to do this!! I want this!!! Thank you for your video.
You can do it! You’re welcome!
I am 56 and in great shape, figured I was too old but would kill to do this. I was an attorney for 25 years and do not wan to go near that career again.
Hey Stewart… I don’t blame you! Flying is definitely more fun in the cockpit then behind the desk, lol thank you so much for watching my video
I am 44 and was considering career changing. Glad to know I'm not alone here. Knowing where to start is very intimidating.
Thanks so much for watching my video and contributing to the community by leaving your comment. I’ve got more videos planned. It will help answer your questions as well as the many many questions I have received from others.
This is so awesome!! Excited to follow your journey
Thanks Kaity! Looking forward to our interview!
yes, brother. Let's go i am in my 37 ish, lol. and starting next year. now working on saving up hopefully we cold share the cockpit. keep climbing
Thanks so much!
Hey Trent, i thank the UA-cam algorithm for bringing me across your channel. I am 36yrs old this year and finally pursuing my dream career as a pilot. After living and working in China for the last 7 years, I'm heading back home to South Africa on the 2nd of May and starting my training ASAP after seeing family. I'm going to be doing it full-time, starting with PPL and then straight onto Commercial. I will also do my instructors rating! Might consider starting a UA-cam channel and go through the steps,procedures and costs involved. Might be useful to share with others so they can compare the overall cost and experience of doing your training in another country. Looking forward to your next video. Blue skies
Thanks Jaco! Appreciate you watching my video and leaving a comment :-)
FYI the massive airline pilot shortage is really an experienced pilot shortage; a lack of Captains or Captain eligible pilots (1,000 hours Part 121 time). What’s happening is Captains who don’t want to remain at a regional until retirement are getting hired very quickly by major and legacy carriers. First Officers are also getting hired by the majors without any time as a Captain.
Not saying things will still be the same when you have your 1,500 hours but be aware that right now it’s actually very difficult to get hired as a First Officer at any regional airline (including through cadet programs). The regionals are simply not putting new FOs in the first available class (waitlists of upwards of a year + are happening) because there is no use in hiring, training and paying first officers if there aren’t enough captains to fly with them.
You make good points… And I’m well aware that things could be significantly different in 18 months. I’ve never been a person to need a security, blanket, however. I’m quite happy to pay my money and take my chances.
Im 53 and very much wish to become a pilot, the financial aspect scares me but it’s a child hood dream
Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
OMG!!!! I can't believe I found you!!!! We're in the SAME BOAT!! I need guidance
That is what my channel is for. More videos to come. Thanks for watching my video and leaving a comment!
I'll be 53 in June. I'm trying to get my medical for a ppl, but there are a couple things the FAA needs to check into. Thanks for the video. Do the thing!!
You're welcome. Thanks for watching my video and leaving a comment!
You may not have flight experience , but you have lots of life experience bro and that is gold when it comes to common sense as a captain .
Sure you can make it .
I have 140 hours :)
@@trent_dyrsmid we might fly together currently under skywest recruiting process. best wishes.
Thx!
Thank you for this great video giving so many flight enthusiasts new energy! I am just 37 and can't count the times that I heard, I'm too old to become a professional pilot. Flying has been my passion for a long time and I keep in heading towards my dream. And I wish you all the best luck and success for reaching your goals 🎉
You can do it! Thanks so much for watching and taking a moment to comment! 🙌
i think its great what ur doing! gives me hope at 44 years old and wanting to change my career
i subscribed and looking forward to ur update videos! 👍
Thanks Pete!
Fantastic video, as a pilot who started when I was quite young (15) and then started teaching when I was 18, it is very possible to do the route you are taking. Excited to see how this unfolds in future videos. Best of luck.
Thanks Oliver!
Im starting flight school this month and Im 29 but I found this great!
Awesome! Thank you for watching my video and welcome to the fly with Trent community!
Being an airline pilot will take over your whole life. You will live at airports. I hated it and luckily had no flight training debt.
Food for thought. Thx
Ran across your video. I to am 53 and binging my journey hopefully. All about passing that faa physical. Lol
Indeed!
Hey Trent great content. Thanks for making these videos. Don’t worry about not knowing everything there’s beauty in you being vulnerable and admitting that you are learning as you go. You will be learning for the rest of your aviation career. I’m 48 and just earned my commercial certificate earlier this week. I’m starting to work on my CFI lesson plans (I have all my CFI and CFII writtens completed). I like you am working and going to the airlines and I think I’ll be happy just getting to fly jets for my living that who it’s with isn’t as important as the QOL aspects. Keep on keeping on and make sure you remain flexible as this journey can and will throw you curveballs.
Hey Joseph… Thank you so much for watching my video and leaving a comment!
Im a 50 year old with 1400 hours as a private pilot and this video was perfect timing for me. I thought i was too old even with the time.
Glad you found my video and hope that you go for it, too!
You can do it. Good luck. I did it at 58.
👍👍
Such of nice inspiring journey! My dream become a pilot now I’m learning that is never too late!
Thanks for watching!