In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of aviation, the journey to success requires more than just skill – it demands dedication, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Andres Vega exemplifies these qualities. From piloting smaller aircraft to commanding the high-performance Citation X, his story is a testament to the power of preparation and perseverance.
From Private Pilot to Type Rated Professional
Posted on: 03/05/2025
Interview with Captain Reaching New Heights in Corporate Aviation
Through a mix of professional insights and personal reflections, this interview delves into Andres’s journey, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned along the way. His experiences offer invaluable guidance for pilots aspiring to reach new heights in their careers.
Advice for Professional Pilots from First Officer Andres Vega
Andres, thank you for joining us!
Let’s start with where you are now – what’s your current role, and what does it involve?
Thank you! I’m currently a First Officer on the Citation X, flying for a corporate charter operator executing flights across the U.S., Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean.
How did your journey as a pilot begin?
I began my aviation journey at SkyEagle Aviation Academy, at this flight school, I transformed from a beginner to a commercial pilot in just six months. The intensive training program, modern fleet, and dedicated instructors provided me with a solid foundation for my pilot career. At SkyEagle, I earned my Private Pilot License and Commercial licenses, and later completed the ATP-CTP course. The academy played a key role in preparing me for the challenges and opportunities of a professional pilot’s life.
What do you think helped you transition from smaller planes to commanding a high-performance jet like the Citation X?
The key was preparation and adaptability. Flying smaller planes like the Cessna Caravan helped me build a solid foundation. When transitioning to the Citation X, I studied intensively – systems, performance, and SOPs – so I could hit the ground running during training. Networking also played a huge role; it was a recommendation from a mentor that opened the door to corporate aviation for me.
What challenges did you face on your journey, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was breaking into corporate aviation with just 1,000 hours. It required persistence, leveraging every opportunity, and presenting myself confidently. Staying focused on my long-term goals kept me motivated.
What does a typical work schedule look like for you now?
I work on a two-weeks-on, two-weeks-off rotation. During my on-duty weeks, the company can send me anywhere – across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Some days I fly multiple legs, covering up to 6-8 hours, and other days I might just wait for a call. It’s a dynamic schedule, but I enjoy the variety.
The rotation is more like 16 and 13 sometimes – but it works well for me. It gives me plenty of downtime to recharge or even travel back to Colombia. The flexibility also lets me take on extra flights when I want to. For me, this schedule is ideal, though I know it can be challenging for pilots with families.
How do you balance work and personal life with such a schedule?
For me, it works well because I’m not married and don’t have kids. It gives me two full weeks to rest, travel, or visit my family in Colombia. However, for pilots with families, it can be challenging. Some companies offer shorter rotations, but I appreciate the flexibility my schedule provides.
How has networking and mentorship influenced your career progression as a professional pilot?
Networking has been pivotal in my career progression. One key moment was reconnecting with my former CFI, Scott Leach, who gave me invaluable advice: “Introduce yourself directly to the chief pilot after finishing your multi-engine training.” I followed his guidance, approached the Director of Operations, and expressed my enthusiasm. Though I had just under 1,000 hours, my honesty and eagerness made an impression. After building a few more hours, I was offered a position.
Did you face any challenges during training?
Definitely. My simulator partner wasn’t fully prepared for the program, so they had to leave midway through. That meant I completed my training alone, working one-on-one with an Academy instructor. Because of this, I was initially issued the SIC (Second in Command) rating instead of the PIC (Pilot in Command). But a year later, in October, I upgraded to PIC during my recurrent training, and I also earned my ATP at the same time.
Was the ATP certification process as rigorous as pilots say?
Absolutely. The written exam alone requires studying over 1,500 questions, and then there’s the ATP-CTP course. On top of that, you need to meet all the flight hour requirements – cross-country, night time, and PIC time. It’s not just about hitting 1,500 hours; it’s about proving your competency in every aspect of flying.
How quickly did you recover your training investment after starting your job?
In my current role at a Part 135 company flying the Citation X, my annual salary is approximately $85,000. Additionally, there are ways to boost earnings. For instance, flying on a scheduled day off pays a pilot $1,000, no matter the flight duration – whether it’s one hour or six. On top of that, there’s an $80 per diem, bringing the total to $1,080 for such flights. Since I don’t have family obligations at home, I often take these opportunities to maximize my income. Thanks to this, I managed to recoup my training costs within about a year.
Keys to a Successful Aviation Career
Many pilots aspire to move into corporate or airline flying. What advice would you give them?
- Focus on the basics.
- Master airmanship, study the aircraft you’re flying, and maintain a strong safety mindset.
- Building relationships – networking is very important in this industry.
- And don’t rush the process; each step prepares you for the next. Whether it’s building hours or transitioning to a new type, embrace the learning curve.
Looking ahead, where do you see your pilot career going?
My next goal is to transition to the major airlines or cargo operations, flying larger aircraft like the Boeing 777 or Airbus A330, and becoming an airline pilot.
I also want to continue mentoring younger pilots, sharing what I’ve learned to help them navigate their careers. Aviation is a lifelong journey, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
Your story is inspiring, Andres. Thank you for sharing your insights.
Thank you! To all the pilots out there – keep pushing forward. Every challenge is an opportunity, and your dreams are closer than you think.
Conclusion
Captain Andres Vega’s story is a testament to the power of professional growth and the opportunities that come with it. For pilots questioning their next steps, his journey demonstrates that advancing your career in aviation is not just possible – it’s essential for staying competitive in a fast-changing industry. His advice and experience serve as a roadmap for pilots aspiring to advance their careers and aim higher in the dynamic world of aviation.
In aviation, standing still is not an option. With cutting-edge facilities, expert instructors, and industry connections, ATP.Academy is your partner in taking the next step toward leadership and excellence.
It’s time to invest in your future! Let ATP.Academy help you reach a higher level as a pilot.
About ATP.Academy
Founded with a mission to empower pilots to achieve their highest potential, ATP.Academy offers world-class training programs for aviation professionals. From advanced certifications and type ratings to leadership development, we are committed to preparing pilots for the evolving demands of the aviation industry.
At ATP.Academy, we don’t just train pilots – we build careers. Whether you’re aiming to transition to corporate aviation, fly for major airlines, or refine your skills, ATP.Academy is your trusted partner in aviation success.
Author:
Chief Instructor of ATP-CTP Program.
Chief Information Officer of SkyEagle Aviation Academy.
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