Embarking on the Jet Transition Journey
After flying the Caravan for over a year and building confidence in my instrument skills, I was ready for a new challenge. The experience of handling multiple approaches down to minimums with 1,800’ runway visual range (RVR) and finally upgrading to Captain made me feel prepared for the next step: becoming a jet pilot. When Republic Airways called, offering me the opportunity to fly their Embraer (ERJ) 170/175 jets, I knew it was time. I gave Southern Airways Express my two-week notice and was off to training at Republic shortly after, filled with excitement—and a bit over-confident in by ability to transition easily.
Immersed in Intense Training at Republic Airways
At Republic, I joined one of the airline’s largest pilot classes, with over 40 pilots. The training was rigorous, lasting over six weeks and requiring constant study. It was stressful, too—failure wasn’t an option. Failing could mean being sent home, and in this industry, losing an airline job can make it exceptionally difficult to get another one. Leaving my secure government job with its good pay and benefits was a risk, but I was all in, despite the intense pressure.
Working with My Simulator Partner
In jet training, each trainee is paired with a “simulator partner.” My partner Nick was 23, young enough to be my son, and an excellent partner. Together, we studied aircraft systems and practiced “flows” on the “paper tiger,” a mock setup of the flight deck for rehearsing procedures. The partnership provided a great opportunity to tackle challenges as a team and learn from each other’s strengths.
From Fixed Training Devices to Full Motion Simulators
We began in “Fixed Training Devices” (FTDs), which are motionless simulators, somewhat like advanced versions of Microsoft Flight Simulator but with a mock jet flight deck. Our training experience varied widely depending on the instructor; one had us feeling like we were “killing it,” while another told us we were barely passable. This contrast in feedback was challenging and drove me to work even harder, especially as I learned how demanding the jet’s complex systems could be.
Mastering the Complexity of Jet Systems
Learning the jet was not as easy as I had expected. The Embraer (ERJ) is equipped with an Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS) that includes five monitors: Primary Flight Display (PFD), Multi-Function Display (MFD), Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System (EICAS). We programmed our routes into the Multi-Function Display Unit (MCDU) and became familiar with the jet’s intricate systems, from electrical and fuel to hydraulics and minimum equipment lists (MELs). Simultaneously we were given iPads with the company’s standard operating procedures (SOPs), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, ERJ information, and navigation data. We had to learn multiple applications and how to navigate them quickly in order to program and fly the jet correctly. Mastering all these components within a compressed timeframe was no small feat.
Progressing to Full Motion Simulators: Raising the Stakes
As we progressed, we moved to full motion simulators, where the stakes became even higher. These simulators are less costly to operate than actual aircraft but still very expensive, so airlines run them nearly 24/7 to keep pilots proficient and ready for the line. Failing a simulator check meant they would have to try and find you another slot to try again, or they could simply choose to let you go at that time. I could feel the pressure mounting each time I entered the simulator, but my simulator partner and I pushed through. Several of my classmates commented that I looked so stressed, they thought I was failing, only to poke fun at me when my sim partner and I returned passing each stage.
Overcoming Frustrations and Final Stage Checks
During training, transportation was a constant issue. We relied on an unreliable hotel shuttle to reach the simulator center, which often required padding our arrival time substantially, only to wait in the simulator building lobby for extended periods. Frustrated, I finally suggested renting a car. My partner reminded me he wasn’t old enough, but I assured him, “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.” Throughout training, he found ways to calm me, especially during our stage checks, which helped a lot. On our final check ride, he asked if he could go first, keeping up his “superstitious” routine. We both passed, celebrating the end of an intense six weeks and the start of our careers as jet pilots.
Earning the Coveted Airline Transport Pilot License
Our last day of training was a great day—passing the final check ride felt surreal. Earning the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license after weeks of stress, study, and simulator hours was a huge accomplishment. With the ATP in hand, we were finally going home, ready to take on the skies in a new role. The journey had been long, and at times, exhausting, but the reward was worth every challenge we faced.