View Full Version : Cathay/Commuting and Bases
petitepilot
27th Jun 2005, 15:41
I was doing recurrent training with an ex Cathay Ca, and he has peaked my interest in the airline. I have applied only this weekend, and I believe I meet the requirements of DEFO. He was not able to answer some of my questions due to the fact it was some time back that he retired. My ultimate goal would be an East Coast (JFK) base. Can anyone shed some light for me concerning schedules, viability of commuting from the east coast of the US, length of time before a US base would open up(approximate) after being hired:eek: . I am interested in any/all opinions that concern quality of life issues. If you have posted a relative response in the past, the link would be great. Dirtysidedown, boys and girls!
Bjammin
28th Jun 2005, 06:22
Petite,
You can check the Cathay websight to see if you have the hours for DEFO. I only had 2500HRS when I applied and got hired.
You WOULD be based in the states strieght away being a FO on the freighter. They offered me LAX and ANC, I chose LAX but could move my base to JFK if I wanted to. They can be very accomidating here.
As far as commuting, be careful. Most pilots on the east coast buy full fare tickets on JetBlue or SWA to get to JFK. Cathay does not put up well with missing a flight due to commuting. Just ask the Captain that bought a full fare Concorde ticket to get to his LON base on time.
If you don't make FO and they offer you an Second Officer position, would you be open to that?
Hope this helps, cheers.
petitepilot
28th Jun 2005, 08:06
Many thanks for your response. I have twice what you did at hire and jet PIC at a regional, so with any luck in today's market I will still have acceptable time for DEFO. I don't think I could handle DESO. Your input is very much appreciated. When were you hired? Congrats! Are you enjoying it? What kind of commute do you have and how is your schedule? Thanks! :ok:
Bjammin
29th Jun 2005, 09:22
Actually SO is a very good deal. You have to live in Hong Kong, but with salery and benifits the pay is as good as FO while having a much better schedule. There are many people with 5K hours that decided they wanted SO vice FO.
I started class last Apr. and am doing line training now out of Hong Kong. I'm going to be living in San Diego and will more then likely drive the 2 hrs to work twice or three times a month. Also I think american eagle has a large number of flights each day or i'll buy a full fair ticket on SWA. I'll have between 13 to 18 days off a month typically. With 2 or 3 long haul flights.
The training so far has been exceptional. Very knowlegable and helpful instructors. I would not say they spoon feed you, but it is very easy to pass ground school and sims if you put in a little study time.
Hopefully this info helps and feel free to PM me.
ALFRED
4th Jul 2005, 16:05
Hi guys,
One of you would be nice enough to enlight me about SO's job at CX, 'cause it's part of theire questions.
As I have no commercial background, I'm in for accurate data.
1st interview Aug 4th !!:uhoh:
Many thanks
ALRED,
I am currently a Second Officer at Cathay, and like you, had had no prior commercial experience. Send me a PM and I'll gladly answer any questions you have.