Is training for JAR ATPL economically safe in SA??

[mcc132]

I am a UK resident, and am considering training with Flight Training College South Africa (FTC-SA) to ATPL level (In partnership with a UK school...). I have read a few topics discussing the state of the economy and falling value of the Rand.

This begs the question - will all my hard earned cash go down the drain if I train there next year??

Also, has anyone down there had any dealings with FTC-SA? If so what is their reputation?

Thanks in advance. <img src="tongue.gif" border="0">

[The General]

Dunno anything about FTC, but if you are converting pounds to SA's funny money, you can't go wrong.

[Speedbird59]

Hi Paul

I'm doing a similar thing to you albeit not through the same companies you have mentioned. It is true that the Rand has probably lost some 40 - 45% of its value this year against the Greenback and Sterling. Essentially this means you have almost doubled your money when you convert your Sterling to SA Rand.

What this means is that local prices will go up especially as fuel is bought wholesale in US$. Having said that any steep rise in inflation will be tough for the locals but not if you are paying in Foreign currency.

I think if anything it makes more financial sense to train here now than it did say 12 months previous. However as with any flight training organisation try not to pay a shed-load of money up front as you never know what lies just around the corner for any company- besides which money in your account earns you interest rather than someone else.

[AeroBatfink]

Hi Paul,

True about the Rand - awful situation for the South Africans, but it means us poms have a higher standard of living for less. Pay as little upfront as you can, and keep a very sharp eye on the exchange rate, shown every night on the news, which you probably won't miss, as you'll be glued to the weather report!! <img src="wink.gif" border="0">

As for FTC, they've got a good reputation, but I'm told the environment can be a bit clinical, and there are rumours of people getting lost in the system. I believe it usually pays to make a bit of noise if you feel you're being messed around. There are quite a few posts on SA Flying Schools in the Wannabes forum, might be worth checking those out...

AB