How Low-Time Pilots Break Into Contract Flying Without Getting Blacklisted

Описание: LINK TO FULL EPISODE -    • Private Jet Contract Pilot: BIG Money, ZER...  

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How Low-Time Pilots Break Into Contract Flying Without Getting Blacklisted

Thinking about undercutting day rates to get your first contract gig? In this clip, veteran Part 91 contract pilots break down why that move can quietly blacklist you from an incredibly small, tight‑knit network.

You’ll hear real numbers on day rates, how “market standards” actually work between cities, and why cutting your rate from 1500 to 1300 a day doesn’t just hurt you – it takes bread off every other contractor’s table. They explain the unwritten “no scab” rule, how word travels on Facebook groups and owner forums, and what happens when an operator starts using your name to pressure other pilots to match your low offer.

Then the conversation flips to the *right* way for low-time pilots to break in: being hyper‑likable on the road, matching your price honestly to your experience, and proving yourself on repeat trips until you can command top dollar. You’ll also hear how the industry flipped from pilots paying 80 an hour to sit right seat in a King Air to FO’s getting paid 750 a day just to be the second pilot for insurance requirements.

If you’re looking at contract flying as an alternative to the airlines, this is a must‑watch on networking, reputation, and long‑term earning power in the Part 91 world.

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Timestamps
0:00 Undercutting day rates and the “blacklist”
0:40 How market day rates really work by city
1:20 Why other pilots take your low rate personally
2:00 The no‑scab mindset from airline unions to contract flying
2:30 How to be likable and price yourself as a low‑time pilot
3:10 From paying to sit right seat to getting paid $750/day
3:50 Breaking into the Part 91 community the right way