Our FPAP-US and FPAP-US-IND and PA-ATP programs guarantee flight instructor internships with our FTP in Florida, which allows foreign students to build piston propeller flight time on light training aircraft. But what about heavier, turbine planes – can our graduates work on them too? Yes, they can!
How to use F-1 visa to build turbine time?
Our US program are issuing foreign students an F-1 visa for study and internship opportunities. One of the distinguishing features of the F-1 visa is the opportunity it offers for practical training, which is essential for students looking to gain real-world experience in their field of study. Two main forms of practical training under the F-1 visa are CPT and OPT:
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT): CPT is a type of employment authorization that allows F-1 students to engage in paid or unpaid internships, cooperative education programs, or work-study opportunities that are integral to their curriculum. CPT is typically utilized while the student is still enrolled in their academic program and is a valuable way to gain hands-on experience related to their field of study. Our students can use CPT to build instructor Command flight hours while working for the FTP, immediate after completion of the flight training phase of the program. The duration of CPT is limited to 6-12 months. The CPT employment is restricted to the flight academy property only, and does not allow employment with other companies. The CPT is followed by OPT.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT, on the other hand, is a more flexible form of employment authorization that allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their program. In some cases, students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, allowing for an extended period of practical training. Aviation training (officially called “Aviation Science”) is considered a STEM field, and, therefore, some application for the 24-month extension may be granted by the USCIS.
The primary difference between CPT and OPT lies in the timing and purpose of the practical training. CPT is typically done while the student is still enrolled in their flight training program, and the training is considered an integral part of their education. In contrast, OPT is often used after the student has completed their program to gain post-graduation work experience.
How can I get employment as a turbine pilot on OPT?
In the United States, the aviation industry offers a diverse range of career opportunities for the newly-graduates CPL pilots, even those with low flight time (500 hours). Among the numerous career paths available, flying for turbo-prop airlines has emerged as an attractive option, providing a stepping stone for pilots to gain valuable experience and work towards fulfilling their professional ambitions.
Turbo-prop airlines operate aircraft equipped with turboprop engines, which are known for their reliability, efficiency, and versatility. These aircraft are commonly used for regional and short-haul flights, connecting smaller cities and towns to larger hubs. As a result, turbo-prop airlines play a vital role in the nation’s transportation network.
One of the key advantages of pursuing a career as a low-time pilot with a turbo-prop airline is the abundance of job opportunities. These carriers often have a constant demand for entry-level pilots to fill their ranks. The growth of regional air travel and the need to replace retiring pilots have contributed to this demand. As a result, low-time pilots can secure positions as first officers, gaining hands-on experience and building flight hours.
These entry-level positions often serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in the aviation industry. Low-time pilots who begin their careers with turbo-prop airlines can gradually accumulate flight hours, enhance their skills, and work towards obtaining an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which is required for captain positions at major airlines.
Pilots who are finishing their CPT as flight instructors, hold FAA CPL with single and multi-engine, and instrument ratings, can quick CPT after achieving 500+ hours of total time and start their OPT phase, applying for turboprop first-officer positions, where they can work for additional 12-24 months, depending on the USCIS authorization.
Will I need a type-rating?
No. According to the FAA, unless the aircraft is a jet, it does not require a type-rating, as soon as its MTOW is below 5700kg. Such turbine turbo=prop airplanes will include King Air B90, Cessna 208 Caravan, Pilatus PC-12, Cessna 421 Golden Eagle, Piper Cheyenne, Embraer EMB 110 Bandeirante, Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner, Beach 1900, and many more!
The absence of a type rating requirement for light turbo-props significantly enhances their accessibility to a broader range of pilots, including those transitioning from smaller aircraft, general aviation, or even freshly-minted commercial pilots. It reduces the bureaucratic hurdles associated with training and certification, making it easier for pilots to operate these versatile aircraft.
Because of that, many charter companies will happily employ a low-hour CPL holder to fly these airplanes as a First Officer, even just for 12 months. In-house initial training and check-out are provided by the charter company for free.
Can you give an example?
Sure! Join Aerocadet’s specially created Facebook Group to see live, daily, low-hour pilot job ads which will help you to build your turboprop flight time on F-1 visa OPT:
Where else can I search for jobs like that?
There are numerous websites where you can find pilot job listings, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a student pilot looking for your first opportunity. Here’s a list of websites that advertise pilot jobs:
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- AirlineJobFinder: This website offers a comprehensive list of pilot job opportunities, including positions with airlines, cargo carriers, and charter companies.
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- JSfirm: JSfirm is a popular aviation job search engine that features listings for pilot jobs in various categories, such as commercial, corporate, and cargo.
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- Pilot Jobs Network: This website provides a wide range of pilot job listings, from airline positions to corporate and cargo flying jobs.
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- Aviation JobNet: Aviation JobNet is another job search engine specializing in aviation careers, including pilot positions in different sectors of the industry.
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- FlightGlobal: FlightGlobal is a trusted source for aviation news and job listings, offering a comprehensive list of aviation and pilot job opportunities from around the world.
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- Corporate Pilot Jobs: This website focuses on pilot jobs in the corporate and business aviation sector, making it a go-to source for those interested in flying for private companies.
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- FindaPilot: FindaPilot is a platform dedicated to connecting pilots with job opportunities across the aviation spectrum, from entry-level to seasoned professionals.
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- BizJetJobs: BizJetJobs is tailored to those seeking opportunities in business aviation, with listings for corporate, charter, and fractional ownership pilot jobs.
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- Pilot Career Center: This website offers a wealth of information on pilot careers and a job board that features positions in airlines and corporate aviation.
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- Climbto350: Climbto350 is a job search engine that focuses on aviation and aerospace careers, including pilot positions.
Visit Aerocadet.com for more information about your flight training and internship options.Or contact us via info@aerocadet.com
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