Abu Dhabi Aviation

[chopperguy]

Does any of you Ppruners currently work or has worked in the past for ADA?
If yes, could you give me details as to their work and pay schedule as well as any other relevant info like accomodation etc...
Thanks

[paco]

Isn't there a very long thread about life in the Middle East? Should all be in there.

Phil

[chopperguy]

Hi Phil,

how can I find this thread?

[Bravo73]

Use the 'search' function.

http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?t=156157


:ok:

[spinwing]

Mmmmmmm .........

Well the answers are easy enough eh chaps .....

1. ADA's primary work is supporting the AbuDhabi offshore oil industry with BH412/212 Helicopters and soon AW139.

2. Work schedule is a mix of 56/28 or 42/42 days on/off depending how much you argue.

3. Pay .... not enough!

4. Accomodation .... CRAP!

5. Fellow pilots/Engineers ..... F*****G EXCELLENT (by and large).

6. Management ....??????????? :ugh: :mad:

Cheers :E

[smickey]

ChopperGuy,

Check your PMs.

[Roger2]

Anyone currently working for ADA (seismic only) could advise life/conditions at the jobsite(s)

And currently how long to get checked out in Abu Dhabi before leaving for jobsite. What I gather from various sources, it seems the downside is being in Abu Dhabi but improves out in the field...

Pm or email if appropriate.....Appreciate some help on this. Thanks!

...Rog

[CYCLONE 7]

I am considering working for Abu Dhabi Aviation but am worried about all the bad press on the company.
What is it really like there?:uhoh:

[paco]

I'd say the only real problem is the accommodation, but you spend some nights offshore anyway (it's really bad when a rig is better than your home!) :)

You probably won't see the real top management anyway, although ADACEO fhas been know to frequent this forum ;)

I'd say go for it, and look on the bright side - it's better than a lot of other companies out there! And the people you will be working with will make up for a lot.

But I thought a lot of their people were heading in your direction?

phil

[1970ck]

I have recently sent an application to ADA (online) and was doing some research when I came upon this forum. What is it like being employed by ADA? I have the email blocker turned off so you can email me direct if anyone can help

Thanks

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ......

If you have read through this thread you will have gotten the gist of life in the Gulf.....

The ADA management attitude is very USA .... ie you are a resource to be used.

Do not expect too much and you will not be disappointed.

Do know your abilities .... so many come out thinking the job is easy (it certainly looks easy when you watch the way the senior pilots go about their tasks but they know all the tricks/traps).

"Big Heads" and "Prima Donna's" should not bother ... as you will not get though the indoctrination program .... you need to be level headed have a mature outlook and good skills and be able to play on a team.

You MUST be easily fluent in English to Level 4 but preferably Level 6 (Expert).

You must have plenty of Multi-Engine Helo time preferably in Bell 412 (or AW139).

You MUST have an Un-restricted ATPLH with reasonable IF experience (not just a rating obtained in an R22 trainer???).

Yes there is a turnover of pilots and engineers but there is also a lot of guys with in excess of 10yrs service there (and a few with 20+yrs of service).

The major enjoyment with working at ADA is the chance to work with a really good bunch of characters from whom you can learn quite a bit.

You make of it what you can ...... Pay is good!


:ok:

[bristowburnout]

Despite its past reputation ADA has improved over the years from what I have seen. Professionalism was pretty poor but there's a wind of change blowing in the company with regard to that and at last everyone does recurrent simulator training at the Emirates/CAE facility up the road in Dubai.
The flying is the usual boring offshore stuff and anyone who's in Eket will find it little different from there, except it's hotter in the summer and there's a bit more underslung work. Accommodation is improving and at least we have our own bars and don't need to drink with the client. It's possible to go to the cinema or ice-skating our fishing and many other activities on days off. Transport to work doesn't involve going in armed convoys or getting ambushed and shot! There are many good supermarkets in town to get decent meals and internet and telephone connections are good (although Etisalat does censor many gambling and porn sites). You can even make mobile phone calls from offshore, though you'll need a mobile without a camera as they're paranoid about photos being taken offshore :ugh:
The pay isn't as good as Nigeria, but then there's far less stress and danger here too :). However, the dirham is linked to the $ and with the strength of that currency at the moment, depending where you live, the pay is really not bad. The company management is rubbish, but again, if you can cope with A$$lick in Nigeria it's certainly no worse :}. For anyone having strong reservations about staying in Nigeria after the Eket ambush last month, all I can say is, come on over - it's not so bad and a pretty good bunch of guys to work with. There's a shortage of qualified engineers, but again after what happened in Eket maybe that'll change too?
Friends still in Nigeria tell me that there are some changes happening soon and A$$lick will probably be gone in 6 months or so with Oni returning. I know that'll be 6 months too late for many, so why not come over here and have a look. You'll have nothing to lose as there will always be shortages in Nigeria and you can always go back if you don't like it here.

[vfr440]

Chopperguy
I think the comments are all valid, but I would be very careful - read twice before you sign. Paco's comments about the management are absolutely spot on. Been there, done that :suspect:

[Outwest]

I thought the accommodation was all sorted??? Did I not hear that they built new digs and bulldozed the vans?

[spinwing]

Outwest ....

You heard WRONG!

New accommodation is in the process of being constructed but not yet completed ..... and though old, the vans are still preferred by the old hands who value the social network they foster.

New camp (in the middle of nowhere) will have to prove itself and may in fact prove to be very inconvenient!

Time will tell.

:E

[DHC8driver]

Can anyone shed any light on the Dash-8 side of the operation there? I appreciate any info!

Previous experience in the ME.
3500hrs TT

Thanks!

[Freestream]

The new pay rates are out for ADA $616 per day for A cat captains on a 6 and 6 rotation. The new accommodation is very nice indeed. Khalifa B and A are tops and the new ones at Madinat Zayed are very nice too.:ok:

[Outwest]

New accommodation is in the process of being constructed but not yet completed

The new accommodation is very nice indeed. Khalifa B and A are tops and the new ones at Madinat Zayed are very nice too


So which is it?

This is just like our pilot meetings......put more than one pilot in a room and try and get them to agree to something :ugh:

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ....

Outwest ....

If you are so knowledgeable about "our Pilot meetings" how come you are not up to speed with the truth about the accommodations ....

The Khalifa A & B villas mentioned are for "overflow" at the moment ... OR used to accommodate the SAR contract lads.

The NEW camp is still no where near habitable yet.

New "Pay rates" seem to be in force BUT also include (?) end of service benefit so may not be the great raise some were expecting.

In order to qualify for the $616/day particular specific qualifications and experience are required! .... limited slots available!

Don't expect too much ... you won't then be disappointed :eek:

:(

[Outwest]

If you are so knowledgeable about "our Pilot meetings"

I am glad you quoted me correctly and that I did say "our" and not "your".

"our" meaning where I am working now, which is nowhere near ADA.........hence the questions and clarifications :ugh:

Anyway, thanks for the update, I'm sure all concerned appreciate it.

[bristowburnout]

The accommodation in Abu Dhabi is worse than that in Eket - at the moment. However, here it's much easier to do your own cooking if you wish and with food bought from a decent supermarket at reasonable prices.. We have several bars on the camp where we can relax and we can travel out into town for other social life. This will undoubtedly be more difficult when the new camp is built, though the accommodation will be much nicer. More people will probably buy cars - they're relatively cheap out here, getting credit is easy and you can split the cost with your back to back. When on night standby you stay at the airfield in reasonable accommodation and on most of the offshore locations the rooms are good as is the food (there are even swimming pools offshore and you can still use your mobile phone and access the internet - often from your room). There are plenty of hospitals with good standards. As I've said, the only real difference is that the pay is less - but in my opinion it's well worth it just for the better quality of life and improved personal safety (which also makes for less worry for relatives at home). It gets unbearably hot in the summer, but it's a pleasant place for wives to visit during the winter with plenty to do. Things are improving, probably as a matter of necessity, but it's worth coming out here for even a few years as a break from the slog of Eket albeit with a management which is just as unsympathetic.

[Outwest]

Thank you very much Bristowburnout, now that is an informative, factual post.

Is there any compensation if you choose to live in Abu Dhabi. I.E. will ADA pay anything towards housing?

[expatron]

For the moment they're looking for copilots only or "Captains Cat C" :}

[Phone Wind]

A friend who joined ADA last year says that a Class 1 Captain there on 8/4 can now earn more than $165000 per annum. OK, there are probably not a lot of pilots on that (I don't know what their requirements are to get classified as Class 1) but it's good money and something worth aspiring to.

[Elvis70]

Quote from ExPatron, "For the moment they're looking for copilots only or "Captains Cat C"

Friend of mine is supposed to go to ADA in the spring. He used to work in Saudi and has contacts at ADA. I am wanting to follow him after he gets on. What exactly are they requiring for co-pilot jobs? I have 1000 hours of offshore time in U.S. and currently fly a measly 100 hours a year in EMS so my time hasn't built much the last 5 years of doing that. I have about 2500 hours mostly turbine. Really want to work in Oil and Gas again but not for what they pay in the U.S. and want to work internationally anyway. I haven't applied yet as I am waiting till he gets on but don't want to miss out if they need co-pilots now and I meet thier qualifications.

So do I have a shot or what?

[expatron]

Hey Elvis, the requirements are 1000 hrs RW minimum, offshore and turbine time will help a lot, payment is around 300 bucks per day, PM for more info,
Cheers

[garsr1]

Expatron

I put my app in a few days ago I am dual rated ATP do you know if they allow you to fly both. I have 9600 total 8000 heli 2000 multi 5500 turbine. I dont know if this is attractive for this company.

Thanks for any info

[bandit19]

The new pay raise is in as promised...oh accept for you SAR guys. Bait and switch for you. vfr440 is spot on. Get everything in writing!:mad:

[Elvis70]

ExPatron PM sent.

[asianrotorhunter]

Bandit19 - Do you know what the new pay rate is for copilots?

[rileyemi]

How's things at AeroGulf? With the Canadian $ taking a nose dive back to where it historically sits, CHC Global will I think lose a few of us who live in the States. We get no breaks on taxes like Canada and the EU countries.
Cheers

[murdock]

Lose a few??? Last I heard CHC had let go of over 75 people in the last 2 weeks. Sounds like CHC is losing its foothold. Rumour has it too, they may not have anymore Nigeria contracts and now they may lose the Thailand gigs. Not very prosperous times.

[B412]

Hi to all my friends in ADA.

Please fellows, with the comments about pay to $616 per day, but only if you qualify, and of course the fact that the housing is still pretty much the lowest standard in the industry, then could someone explain why all of a sudden things look so grand in Abu Dhabi?

Is there a real sick leave benefits clause as yet? What about a descent death in service agreement? I take it Loss of License is still a non starter.... The gratuity deal for 6 and 6 was argued to the pilots detriment many years ago by the jingili mafia, so I guess will not have changed.

I like many argue our workover rate.... but at least for most we have the above benefits on top of it, plus an annual salary, not a daily rate.
As such, despite the fact ADA are not in West Africa or indeed Nigeria, why the sound of bells ringing? (I accept the USD situation, but hey for most expats that is the same worldwide excepting CHC international.).

Yes we all accept that it is lovely to have a large town nearby with good supermarkets. And, I may be wrong, hence would like to be corrected, I believe more has changed in other places than in ADA. So why the sudden buzz? Safe flying to all!

[paco]

rileyemi

Aerogulf were fine last time I was there just before Xmas - was helping out for a couple of weeks while some training was going on, and catching up on the gossip. The dirham is definitely better against the dollar and pound and makes it a little more worth it.

Could do with being back in the warm right now! :)

Phil

[21stCen]

Is the rumor true that ADA has had their entire fleet of 212s and 412s grounded by the GCAA due to regulatory non-compliance since 15 January??? Word is that only 2 or 3 139s are operating to carry the load!!??

[paco]

Maybe their inspector got fed up with them thinking that handshakes would fix everything. I know the Chief Inspector was very concerned that ICAO requirements were to be strictly observed.


Phil

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ....

"Is the rumor true that ADA has had their entire fleet of 212s and 412s grounded by the GCAA due to regulatory non-compliance"



I know notttthhhhhhink! (aka "The Schultz Defence) :eek:



:E

[griffothefog]

If they continue to treat the engineers like ****, the rest will leave as well. When will ADA and GHC get it..... You cannot operate safely without well qualified and happy ground crew :ugh:

More power to the Falcon's bow ?????

[turtlehawk24]

I worked ADA 25 years ago,best job I have ever had.. Been flying EMS for the last 15yrs. Because of the US economy the company I have been with is being sold and 16 pilots will be looking for work... ADA used to have a 55yr old limitation, I just turned 61 and am looking for the last big adventure..Is George Tucker still there? ThankZ

[expatron]

Now the limitation is 59 for new pilots and 65 for pilots already hired,
Cheers

[bandit19]

Surely this will be quickly taken care of by blaming an ex-pat and sheikhing hands on it before any embarassment occurs.

[griffothefog]

You are probably correct, as the handshiek is the usual way of keeping face, but as there are no longer any engineers to blame, QA, HR, CE et al better get the C.V.'s out quick...:eek:

[outhouse]

Could not resist asking, what regulatory non-compliance? Just to keep the discussion going.
:eek:

[SASless]

Griffo,

Young Lad....you know HR never takes any hits!

They are indispensable now more than ever.....they will have to pull some more names off their computer lists and do some interviews....why they are the salvation to this situation.

[B412]

Sorry Spinny, I stole your entry message.
I asked the other day why this company was now SOOOO... appealing. There were no direct answers, however latest comments answered much.
Simply put.... No change at ADA to my jaded eyes....:cool:

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ...

Guess what ? .......


ADA ...... UN-grounded! :E

Ahhhhh politics ......


:ugh:

[Ned-Air2Air]

Why doesnt that surprise me, one Sheikh chats to another Sheikh and the problems go away, yet if it was westerners involved they would be locked up and charged with negligence :D

Feel sorry for the poor bastards that still have to work over there, have noticed things changing at a LOT of the companies in that region, and NOT for the better.

:*

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ....

Ned .... I think you are reading too much into this .....

There was nothing "wrong" with the airworthiness (?) of the fleet nor anything to do with negligence as such.

For all it faults ADA is still a reasonable company to work for .... lots of bitching comes from those that have left and can't come back (and yes some don't want to come back either) for whatever reason, or have some other axe to grind with management.

Ahhhh "Life in the Gulf" .... the "Logic Free Zone" :ugh:

[Demented]

Well said spin.....life is always greener right above the septic tank:)

[outhouse]

So now is all good, any one know what the fuss was about??
:confused:

[fitfighter56]

Hello,
new to site and need some info from any engineers currently working in ADA. Coming from Angola (Heli- Malongo ) 412 ep, 427 & 430. Simply a great company to work for with great mechanics and pilots. Hoping for same at ADA. Any help in what to expect would be great.:ok:

[yukonbrown]

How does one with a FAA Rating get job with ADA. I have submitted my application as a non-licensed enginner. But I have not heard anything back. Can someone shed some light on how can one with an FAA rating get hired with ADA. I have 10 year on Bell 212 and Bell lights.

thanks

[jetA1pilot]

Not sure on AME side but for pilots - write the GCA law exam and then schlep thru the paperwork process to get your foreign license validation. Hurry up & wait being the order of the day but I should think no major dramas for AME's.

[vfr440]

Understand they are currently only looking at AMEs (licensed) for the Spain fire fighting contract (s) Confirm?

[Eng AW139]

All positions filled for Spain 2009, better luck next year.:)

[stacey_s]

unless you are a member of the Engineering team of ADA you have no right saying all positions are taken, after all many contractors are known for changing there minds at the last moment.
Any qualified engineers on Company types are still encouraged to apply.

underscore s

[This aint Jim Beam]

Hey i just applied to ADA, have a 212/412 GCAA licence also.
Does anyone know the Chief Engineers email address?

Regards

[Driptray]

Send a PM to the poster above you (stacey_s), he is very much in the know.:ok:

[pilonrock]

Got an email for ADA a few weeks ago with a a bunch of attachments to fill out and send in. So i did, and sent by regular mail from Canada. I guess they are not in a rush to fill vacancies..??? But who knows . Any insight into the hiring process would be appreciated. Time line?? Not sure if I want to quit my job just yet!!??:=

Cheers

[masteroff]

Please don't!!

I actually spoke to the CP face to face and was promised a start.

Until u are actually signing on the dotted line, keep your old job!

Either way good luck.

[bandit19]

Pilonrock,
Regular mail to Abu Dhabi:hmm:... good luck with that. You're better off scanning and emailing the documents directly and while you're at it make about 10 copies because as far as the Indian mafia is concerned, it's easier for you to just keep filling them out then it is for them to keep track of the originals. They are on their own schedule so there is no time line. My advice: Get EVERYTHING in writing, keep your job until then and have an exit strategy.

[pilonrock]

Well that sounds like just the place I want to work:bored:

No schedule,No time line or organization?? What was that comment in an earlier thread about the logic free zone:ooh:. Being an extremely precise person, meticulous and all, I can see such an environment driving me nuts!
Oh well ,lets see what happens, current job safe. Will have an exit strategy!;)

Thanks for the intel fellas!

[asianrotorhunter]

I've heard there was a payrise recently. Anyone know the new rates?

From what i can gather Cat A (senior Capt) is about $600pd, Cat B (normal capt) is $450 pd, and Cat C (co-pilot) is $300 pd. But are these the new or old rates? Anyone know? Does the company offer a 6&6, and overtime 8&4?

Also, can any current guys tell me what the living conditons are like. I've heard there's new houses being build...

:cool:

[bandit19]

Off Shore CAT "A" is 616 USD. You will have to take a number and wait for someone to quit or die to move up. SAR is not entitled to this despite what they may tell you. If your offer letter says "CAT A" look closely and you may find a hook, line and sinker attached.:hmm:

New housing is nice (w/ Paki engineering:uhoh:)but it is near OMAA so you will want a car/transportation. (Khalifa City is a big construction zone in the middle of nowhere) The labor camp is still opened. Probably won't last long as the Zayad Mosque is nearing completion. I wouldn't live there but it is a piece of aviation history in all its 3rd World glory. More importantly it is closer to civilization.

Off-Shore work seems stable and consistant but I wasn't on that side of ops.

[S76driver]

Are they in need of AW139 co pilots at present, does anyone know? I have filled in the online application form but not sure they need people...didn't they recruit not so long ago.

Many thanks

[Elvis70]

Got a friend who's got a friend on the inside at ADA. Says they are full up for now. Hopefully the hire again soon. Fair amount of turn over as I understand it.

[SASless]

Does that equate to 72,000 USD for a Cat B Captain based upon an 8/4 roster and paid on duty but not when off?

Not very good for the situation I would think!

[asianrotorhunter]

SASless,

The numbers i was given was from a current employee, so quiet accurate. And yes, they only pay you for time on base.

So a Cat C Coey (me) on 6&6 would be makin USD$51,000:ouch:. I got a mate who just went to Bristow Nigeria (and lovin it) and he's on about USD$105,000 for coey 6&6!

No wonder why ADA has such a high turnover. :ugh:

[expatron]

8 x 4 Cat A 137000 usd per year, Cat B 110000 and CAt C 67000 real numbers, not the best job but far beyond the worst (nobody shoot at you) :cool:

[Aser]

Just curiosity,
How much experience is A,B,C...?

[jetA1pilot]

C = co-captain; 1000 hrs with frozen ATPL. Expected to 'finish' ATP within 18 months of joining. $300/day

B = regular captain i.e. most who'll not be lucky enough to be in the A crowd. $492/day

A = super dooper captain. ATP obviously & rated on 2 of the types operated & external load. IFR plus night (although I would think B caps would be too). $616/day

A&B both require 3500 hrs (bend-able?). All rates only paid on, no leave pay. Structure of packages remains to be seen i.e. witheld service bonus, gratuities etc.

As you can guess, only a few will be in the A group but its the marketing benefit of being able to say "over six hundred bucks a day at ADA'' Does sound good and as long as the rates keep going up in the region it's good for the industry. It's already made Gulf Helos push their rates up :ok:

[Aser]

Thanks.

It's similar to Gulf...

Aser

[jetA1pilot]

Yup, similar, although 50% more for co-pilots is a big difference.

For 6/6 guys it's $50,000 at ADA vs. $33,000 at Gulf which is a considerable chunk of change for a year flying the same machine, same ops, same hours, same conditions just down the coast. It's making a few guys re-evaluate their 3-5 year plans.

FYI - if you'd like a laugh: AW139 type rating at Gulf (internal training, not Italian factory course) is now 5 years/$50,000 bond. :E

Aaaah, the logic free zone.....

[Aser]

jetA1pilot, the thing is, I was told ADA doesn't want expat copilots but Gulf yes, or I'm wrong?

Regards
Aser (139 without bonds :E )

[sandbunny]

Try Falcon Aviation Sevices, Abu Dhabi!:ok:

[Freestream]

I would think twice:hmm:

[falkyn1]

Why? Whatsup there?:8

[Ned-Air2Air]

Stay as far away from Falcon as possible as long as the Egyptian beancounter is there.

He has taken a good operation and totally F:mad::mad:ked it.

Latest is that one of the pilots was even taken off flying the Sheikh duties because he wouldnt give up the right seat. Good on him and good decision. Better to be moved sideways and still be alive than give in and end up in the same place as John Hanley (may he rest in peace).

Feel sorry for those still working there. Some good people and good equipment but with current Egyptian beancounter there they are going backwards at a rate of knots.

[C4]

Freestream, you really do have an axe to grind with Falcon.. When are you going to lets us know why??:confused:

[Maverick Laddie]

Freestream Ned-Air2Air

FAS an incident / accident waiting to happen.

ML

[This aint Jim Beam]

FAS an accident waiting to happen.........yeah but so is AeroGulf.

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ....

"yeah but so is AeroGulf. ..."


So what makes you say that ..... they've already had their shocker! :eek:

[paco]

Sorry, but Falcon just aren't in the same league as Aerogulf! I think you need to qualify that statement.

Phil

[This aint Jim Beam]

......when was the last time you looked at the place??
Its the new ADA.

[thecloud]

FAS - I was going to speak for them, but really I cant. All I know is that they have a new fleet, everyone I know that works there seems to be competent - based on my time tested theory (Military chop photos) that a good pilot is a good person!!!!

Aerogulf (I work there) - an old company, old fleet but a lot of old experience. Unfortunately, as much of the middle east, changes take time, but every thing is in place to recreate our previous 30 year non-fatality record. We have made significant changes to pretty much everything!

I would, in the interests of flight safety. like to hear a little more re why these companies are a "accident waiting to happen"

I can promise you now, you will get a free pen, and probably a tee-shirt if you help us identify areas that are safety critical!

[This aint Jim Beam]

word on the street is the "significant changes" made in the engineering shop have caused quite the turnover of staff a la ADA..

[spinwing]

Mmmm ...

JB ...

Sounds like the usual "load of Bollocks" that goes around .... I happen to know of one EXCELLENT engineer traveling up the road to AeroGulf and he wouldn't be going there if it were a bad move ....

Might I suggest you check your rumour source!

:E

[This aint Jim Beam]

....er.. doesnt that confirm what im saying about the high turnover of staff, your buddy going there?
Hes going there to replace someone who left..Duh!
Youre a bit slow arent you.

[spinwing]

Mmmm ....

J.B.

Yup maybe I am a bit slow .... probably 'cos I've been around for so long ....

But then that also means I know a few people as well .... I don't work for AeroGulf now ..... but I did waaaay back in '80s .... I do however still work in the Arabian Gulf area and I've not heard anything to get concerned about ..... and if there were any safety concerns that WOULD get around.

They were a reasonable company then and from what I KNOW still are. People leave employment for all sorts of reasons as you probably well know.

Perhaps the departure of some is due to the recent financial turmoil as well as the changes in the company structure you allude too .... that happens everywhere ... especially in Dubai at the moment .... if you know anything specific well please go ahead and enlighten us all .... unsubstantiated scaremongering does your credibility no good at all.

Cheers :=

[Eng AW139]

Well said....SW

[This aint Jim Beam]

alright, enough big-noting yourself spin wing.
We all work in the gulf and most of us didnt arrive yesterday.

There are some engineering issues there that have come up very recently, as in since you were there in the 1980s, anyone who thinks it the same company everyone raves about, take a closer look.
You're obviously a pilot so engineering isnt something youd know alot about.
This is a note for the engineers, pilots can think what you want.
As for my personal credibility on this forum, boo F..king whoo!

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ...

as quoted by J.B.

"You're obviously a pilot so engineering isnt something youd know alot about."



Oh JB you've done it again......

A quick check of my user profile would again prove you wrong ...

In fact been a Licensed Engineer (Airframes & Engine category) just a wee bit longer than I've been a commercial pilot (since '76 actually) and yes I have held a Chief Engineers position so I do know about the difficulties that those responsibilities hold!

It would seem that you might have some personal issues with AeroGulf and its management ... I'm sorry if I've gotten in your way with those.

Take care :ok:

[This aint Jim Beam]

I i were you i wouldnt be so quick to dismiss my opinion as "a load of bollocks" thats all.

"It would seem that you might have some personal issues with AeroGulf and its management"

Excuse me,Ill let all you guys go back to slagging off at ADA and its management and FAS and its operation and all the personal issues you all have with those companies, didnt realise Aerogulf was so precious to you.

For the sake of the thread ill just say you are absolutely correct there are no problems at all in AeroGulf cause your buddy is going there and you used to be an engineer, right.

I think ive made my point and ill leave it at that.

[Ned-Air2Air]

Jim Beam - Just to clear up your comment about the so called "issues" I have with FAS.

First off I have had an indirect association with FAS since they day they were formed and have a lot of good friends still working there. I have been there on numerous occasions to do photo shoots of their aircraft and featured them in my magazine more than once.

I merely pointed out to those who may be considering going there that they may want to reconsider that idea for the present time due to the involvement of a certain Egyptian beancounter who is causing more havoc than you can appreciate and destroying a great company that many of us have watched grow.

So bottom line - whether Falcon lives or dies has no effect on me or my business other than I will do what I can to help friends find new work and I do wish it succeeds for their sake and that SS gets rid of the Egyptian asap.

With regards to the other companies in the Middle East that seem to get attacked all the time there are always three sides to every story, yours, his and the truth and EVERYTHING is open to interpretation. :ok:

Anyway just my two cents worth.

Ned

[C4]

JB,

Don't be so quick to throw away your credibility.:=. Without credibility your posts are nothing but empty words!

[noblades]

I know its not long since was brought up but any idea of latest T's&C's for ADA, paygrades p/d,accom, general conditions, hidden snakes under shiny $$$ bills. getting mixed reports from people in industry (mainly 2nd hand info though)

grateful for any current knowledge/input
NB

[jetA1pilot]

Apologies for delay NB - into my 2nd week of 6 off, it's a blissful thing.

In the process of dealing with ADA still. At the mo, seems like HR doesn't know what Ops is doing/wants. PM again if needed & I'll explain more.

Also, a colleague just moved over to the SAR ops, not online yet but v happy with his offer so far compared to what he was on at GHC.

Cheers :ok:

[bandit19]

I just left ADA SAR because management did not live up to their side of the deal. Tell your friend to get everything in writing. If he is on the tail end of his career and wants to relax and take up a hobby it will be fine. If he is a motivated individual his skills and morale will wither away quite rapidly.:ugh:

[choppertop]

If anyone can help by PM'ing me with the name and email addy of the chief pilot, t'would be much appreciated.

[bandit19]

I suddenly find myself popular but I won't get used to it :)

As of January 09:

Captain pay is about 10,000 USD per month on site and and around 8000 USD on rotation.

Schedule is 8 weeks on and 4 weeks off. (No 6 and 6) The schedule is usually 48 or 72 hours on and 2, 3 or sometimes more days off. It is a completely random schedule. (but not bad)

The main base is at Bateen (abu Dhabi). Most expats work in Al Ain and another base in the south "Empty Quarter" There is another base near Dubai but mostly local pilots work there. {yes I am purposefully being vague}

Accomodations at the bases are good...private rooms, kitchens, lounges etc (bring your own pif paf)

Living accomodations are good. New villas in Khalifa "A"(Paki engineering aside). You will have a private room with your own bath. It is located near Abu Dhabi Int'l Airport. You'll want a car because it is a construction zone in the middle of nowhere. The other possible place to live is "the labor camp." I refused to live there because it is entirely substandard. It does have the advantage of being closer to the city though. Some people like it and it is worth a trip to the bar(s) for purely historical and entertainment purposes.

You will not get much flight time but the equipment is new and well maintained. The aircraft are/were not equipped for true SAR work. If you are an expat remember you are just a laborer...like someone else said .."if you are there for any other reason than to make money, you are there for the wrong reason."

DO NOT GET INTO DEBT in the UAE. You cannot leave the country if you have any outstanding bills. If you lose your job and can't get another one they WILL throw you in jail.

All things considered it is not a bad place to work and live. Just make sure you get everything in writing and if you decide to leave, do it during your probationary period.

Oh and if you end up there have a beer at 'Captains' for me.

-Cheers

[bandit19]

Pif-Paf is a a popular aerosol insecticide over there. Works great. I have no idea what it contains but it will kill everything...maybe even your coworkers. The flies and mosquitos in early spring and summer will overwhelm the living areas so it is somehow satisfying, albeit in a primitive way, to lay waste to the little pests before trying to get some rest. :E

"It's the little things in life..." (did I mention SAR is mostly boredom?)

[Tony Mabelis]

What a sheltered up bringing you have had!!!

Its fly spray, to deal with the'National birds of Saudi Arabia':ok:

[Snowball]

If only Pif Paf could solve the inherent problems of the ADA SAR Contract!


It is, however, not that powerful!:)

[Eurocrapter]

Speaking of SAR, what is it they are looking for in a pilot (NVG time, etc?)and what will be their mission?

[spinwing]

Mmmmm .....

..... what is it they are looking for in a pilot

..... complience ? :confused:


:E

[Eurocrapter]

BAHAHA, you're killing me Mav. OK, experience levels wise guy :p

[bandit19]

NVG's? They are soooo over rated. That's why you have a Hoist Operator that is fully briefed on the complexities of a flashlight...er that's a torch (for those of you that respect the authority of the queen)

Experience level required is directly proportional to who you know...and what Spinwing said :p

Special skills:

Patience of a saint
Expert in traffic pattern execution
An uncanny ability to deal with the illogical
Oversized liver to keep up with your peers extracurricular activities
did I mention being a 'cheeky bastard' helps?

[Role1a]

Bandit

Was thinking of you yesterday man......... Captains, Harvesters, Hemmingways then Van 3. How is Africa!!!!

[Snowball]

That is why Bandit ran away to deepest Africa....... to let his liver return to normal size!

Concur with Spinwing and Bandit.

Check commonsense in at the door!:ugh:

[Epiphany]

Anyone thinking of going to UAE to work should watch this:

Clinton Mum on UAE Torture Tape - ABC News (http://www.abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=7413635&page=1)

The Sheiks run the place to suit themselves and the legal system is not as we know it. The deafening silence after the ADA 139 accident last year is typical of the kinds of pressure and lack of protection that expats experience there.

Go there by all means as it can be a rewarding place to work financially and experience-wise - but be aware.

[HELOFAN]

Might be going here as my wife has applied for a position here as a school teacher.

Its going to be annoying having 200 hrs and watching from the sidelines.

Ahh well. Its all timing!!

HF

[smoken_rivet]

What is happening in the VFR division and the seismic work in Yemen? Has that dried up like everywhere else? Are they dumping the 212's as they update their fleet?

[jetA1pilot]

Did a tour in Yemen late last year (not exactly a Vladnik carnival but bearable by out-post standards). ADA chaps stayed in smaller camp/compound up the pipeline. Shipping container stuff, food OK, nothing to do but watch the occasional dust devil past by....

My gen might be outdated but I believe ADA contract from YLNG was not renewed this year so the 412 no longer flying there.

I can find out the exact schpeel if necessary - PM if u want.

:cool:

[kaplaa]

Can anyone tell me anything about Abu Dhabi Aviation? Good company?

[the delaminator]

So I'm curious. There are six pages of information on this thread with 117 posts including yours.

Did you bother to read them???

There is another thread called "Flying in the Persian/Arabian Gulf" with 1072 posts. Lots of info there.

Did you bother to read them???

:ugh::ugh::ugh:

[Outwest]

So I'm curious. There are six pages of information on this thread with 117 posts including yours.

Did you bother to read them???

There is another thread called "Flying in the Persian/Arabian Gulf" with 1072 posts. Lots of info there.

Did you bother to read them???




I can always count on you for my morning chuckle :ok::D

[quichemech]

Well they have just fired both of their Chief Engineers and the rumour is lots of Pilots to go as well:eek:

[pilonrock]

It's not a rumor that things are changing, I heard from a pretty reliable source ( if there is such a thing) that they are trying to reduce wages significantly, to +-250 per day, the way to do this is get rid of the 600$+ per day older pilots 50+, and bring younger fellas in at half the rate. Apparently it's the age of the crews that is a concern. Can't say I agree with it but in the logic free zone anything is possible.:yuk:

[the delaminator]

Note to self.

Burn ADA resumes immediately.

Note to UAE oil companies.

Start investing in boats.

[spinwing]

Mmmm ...

as quoted by pilonrock

.... I heard from a pretty reliable source ( if there is such a thing) that they are trying to reduce wages significantly, to +-250 per day, the way to do this is get rid of the 600$+ per day older pilots 50+, and bring younger fellas in at half the rate. Apparently it's the age of the crews that is a concern.

What can I say ...... "Bollocks"


If all this was about reducing wages and getting younger pilots it would have been done ages ago .... that is pretty far from the truth and your source is ill informed.

It has more to do with politics in the region and a powershift with who is in control of companies and their relationships with customers and the rulers.

The fact is ... whoever is flying the tasks for ADMA/ZADCO in the area they will need skilled pilots with local area expertise. The older blokes know the area have been there and can do the job safely without f***ing up! ... young blokes always think they can ... the reality is often somewhat different.

In order to get that expertise you have to pay or the skills go elsewhere ... if you think that Falcon AS even though they might want to lower wages will get /or keep people by paying a lower rate ... well good luck with those thoughts ... 'cos the next industry up turn would see them all go elswhere ... this is the way of the heli industry mostly because of the poor attitude by management ... they may well think they can try it but that tactic has never worked properly.

What will happen is ... the good ADA crews will change uniforms and go to work for FALCON .... the not so good ones that were hired because no body else was available at the time or have proved themselve to be "high maintenance" will dissipate ... this is the law of the Heli industry jungle!

Cheers :E

[Longdog]

Gotta agree with Spinwing, and the Duece,Oh, the Delaminator, the dead wood will be asked/told to move on, and the capable will be kept on, same old, same old.

Problem is, guys like me, who were considering a second coming, with more hours and experience than we like to talk about, are more or less being told, take it or leave it!

Christ, 300 usd/day is what I earned when I left 7 years ago!:yuk:

Burn the CV.

Put the ol Lady to work!:ok:

Back in the Doghouse!:confused:


Have to fell sorry for all the old hands at ADA,who put in all those years, accepting all that crap, just to be crapped on again!:mad:

[tottigol]

300/day is about entry level pay in the GoM.
Even 400/day would be hard to justify the move.

[MAN777]

I am taking a group of aviation enthusiasts to the UAE in Nov for the air show in Dubai, I have had requests from the group to try and arrange a look around Abu Dhabi Aviation facility at AUH.

Do they allow this ?

Who would I contact please ?

Thanks :)

[Ned-Air2Air]

The chances are $hit show and none. ADA is primarily airside and the chances of getting through all the paperwork and B/S required to get airside there with a camera are slim and none.

[MAN777]

Thanks Ned

To be expected I suppose !

[Steve Davis]

Any ADA pilots out there that were friends with John P Hanley could you please contact me . We went to army flight school and worked with him at several company's including ERA. Lost touch when he left for the gulf, We were best of friends, he will be missed very much. What a great pilot and friend.

[ADA Guide]

They're back...

There is a scumbag life form using Abu Dhabi Aviation management names and official-looking stationery claiming to offer employment at ADA - for a fee, which is a particularly reprehensible act in tough economic times.

The latest batch of duped pilots and engineers saw a fraudulent US$29K+ per month Offer of Employment Contract accompanied by an image of a cheque made out to the applicant for Dirham 117,226 - and all that for a fee - ranging from US$1500 to US$400. Just send in the fee via Western Union and collect your cheque when you arrive at your new job! The bastards even include a fabricated UAE Entry Visa with the fake contract.

ADA has never charged a prospective employee a fee for anything to do with employment - which includes obtaining any required visas. The company bears all costs associated with employment.

If you know any mates considering paying any fees associated with Abu Dhabi Aviation, please advise them DON'T EVER PAY A FEE TO JOIN ADA! If you are a member of other helicopter bulletin boards, you could help by posting this text on them.

The official website for ADA is: www.abudhabiaviation.com (http://www.abudhabiaviation.com/). There are links on the site for employment applications. IT IS FREE.

ADA has filed an official report with the cyber crimes unit.

Thanks

[pilonrock]

Thanks for the heads up! That's really low!

What does surprise me though is the real hiring process at ADA. Bit of a joke that is. They seem to be all over the map with the real hiring process as well. I once got offers on 2 separate dates 2 weeks apart for the same job. They never returned my call or even so much acknowledge receipt of documents or anything. Hardly what one would consider a professional approach to staffing after a big "Welcome to ADA new prospective employee". Poor form!!

Frankly, I am a little concerned that they are even able to keep private information private, they are clearly incapable of acknowledging receipt of private or personal or protected information. I wonder how deep this administrative incompetence runs.

Seems like this company has some things to work out.

[griffothefog]

Like how to keep contracts? :E:mad:

[pilonrock]

My advice! Stay in the military! Not a good time to be looking for civil work!

Could change but my bet is a few years!

Good luck:ok:

[SayItIsntSo]

On the other hand....there are jobs available, probably even at ADA. They may not pay as much as some members would like, or remember, but perhaps the halcyon days are over, at least for a while.

Perhaps also the question you have to ask your self is whether or not you would like to be paid 'not a lot' to fly a civil helicopter and start work your way up the civil helicopter totem pole or whether you wish to stay in the military and be paid 'not a lot' and risk getting shot at.

Start working the old boy network. If you are a military pilot with a clean record and a good attitude you should find something.

For me it is a bit of a no brainer!

[globalindian]

Hi

Having spent some time with both ADA and GHC..I am fairly conversant with all the going rates at both places..
I was interested in this new start up called Falcon..
Can anyone guide me to someone hiring / any websites etc of falcon..
Just about any info would help...Rates/work schedule/contact info..

:confused:

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ....

globalindian...

It would appear the only way of hiring on with Falcon at the moment is to go through their employment agency "Graystone".

I wish you good luck with that ....


:E

[ironbird123]

:)Hey All, I am new to the forum and I was going through the thread and noticed it's mostly rotary pilots from ADA posting. I am interested in the Dash 8 flying at ADA and was wondering if anyone might be able to give any info on, shedule, pay, or any other info anyone might be able to offer would be greatful. Thanks in advance for any response.

[Cloud Chaser]

Also interested in terms and (living) conditions for the DHC8 crews, if anyone has info. Even ADA rotary crew who have seen or heard anything! :confused:

[spinwing]

Mmmm ....

Cloud Chaser ....

Last rumour I heard was they(?) have bought a couple of 300 (?) series KingAirs for some new start up project ... one of which is to work out of Morocco ...


:confused:

[fluffy5]

Ada is at the moment as being said earlier is having abit of a re shuffle, it's really half and half, trying to get rid of older pilots chopping wages, how ?
simple emirati law. Also Daddy who own's ada, and son who own's falcon. GCAA had abit of throwing the teddy, so daddy gave son alot of the contracts to hold for him. As falcon is using graaystone, which is linked to blackwater, major backhanders through the US, to provide ex miltary for the certain SOC roles. Everyone is just getting their snout in trough, like they have done for years.
It's far more simpler in Oman.
fluffy

[raul duke]

Hopefully there will be someone there to switch the lights on for you. Dont mind the mess.........the exodus was swift:*

[piggybank]

fluffy
I tried to locate this outfit on Google and Yahoo, and tried various spellings, is this the right name?

[Blackhawk9]

What is happening at ADA , all these criptic threads ???? what is happening as one who used to work at ADA I have an interest.(I had enough of the Mumbai mafia and stories constantly changing and left , if i'm going to be f....ed around I at least want to be F...ed around by a westerner with some idea !)
Stacey and other westerners getting the bullet and I heard pakistani pilots coming in it's just what the arabs want a third world workforce being payed peanuts.... until they spear in the first one....... then back to those expensive westerners again!
I worked with some great guy's there pilots and engineers just hope those that are left don't get compleatly screwed!!!

[Epiphany]

The Mumbai mafia and Pakistani pilots? I can't see that working very well! Although they will save on Vans as the mafia probably put 4 to a room.

Blackhawk - do you know if there any Aussies left there now that the tax laws have changed?

[Blackhawk9]

Epiphany, no none i'm in contact with but was just talking to a couple of mates the other day all of us ex mid east and we were wondering the same thing, why work in a sh.thole and pay tax at home!!!

[ironbird123]

Very interested in a fixed wing position in ADA. Anyone have any info on movement, when next hiring class please? any info will help. Thank you.

Safe flying

[Picket]

Epiphany, as I understand it, KRudds recent change to 23AG has no effect on people working in a tax free country. Before the change they should have been declaring their full income and paying tax in Oz, unless they had non-residency tax status. (should have being the operative).
Working in a place like Nigeria is another story. Tax is paid on your behalf and there is no dual tax agreement with Oz so the money was effectively tax free. Not anymore. That conbined with the strong and strengthening ozzie battler will take a huge gouge out of the take home pay of the convicts.

[the delaminator]

will take a huge gouge out of the take home pay of the convicts.

Convicts seems a bit derogatory old chaps.

Under Arm Bowlers perhaps would be more accurate.

Convicts is sooooooooooo 1780's.

:}

[the delaminator]

Gee.

Not one single Ocker out there to take the Under Arm Bowler bait??

disappointing to say the least.

:p

[SASless]

Those scars are still tender it seems!

[gulliBell]

Just as Convicts was so much 1780's, Under Arm Bowler is so 1980's. If their guy was smart enough he would have picked up the ball and smashed it over the fence for six. Instead he spat the dummy and chucked his bat. Just get over it :ugh:

[spinwing]

Mmmm ...

SASless .... no scars at all mate ....

..... whats to get upset about .... it WAS within the scope of the rules of the game ...... :eek:


:E

[ironbird123]

any movements at ada. any hiring that anyone know of on the dash 8s. please let me know. thnx. p m me if able.:O

[spinwing]

Mmmm ....

No idea about the fixed wing operations .... BUT .... rumour has it a certain organisation has realised it had made a big mistake this year and wants back the skilled & talented workforce its (ex)contractor had supplied to them for so many years ....

Ahhhh ...... life in the Logic Free Zone :}



;)

[ironbird123]

SPINWING, thanks very much for the response man. I am trying to find out if and when ADA might hire on the dash, trying to get on with them. thanks again and Always appreciate any info man. fly safe.:)


p.s. do you know anyone who may know anything about anything, if you know what i mean?

[iuk1963]

Abu Dhabi Aviation and AgustaWestland Sign Shareholders Greement for the Formation of a UAE Limited Liability Company


AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, and Abu Dhabi Aviation have reached an agreement to set up in the UAE a joint venture to operate in the field of maintenance and training for helicopters. The two companies agreed to participate in the formation of a limited liability company to carry out certain services and activities in the fields of helicopter repair and overhaul, customisation, modification and upgrading, and the sale of helicopter spare parts and accessories. Also the JV shall work in association with other local companies in the development of a fully integrated helicopter pilot training centre to be set up in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

http://www.agustawestland.com/sites/default/files/AgustaWestland/AW139%20Abu%20Dhabi%20Aviation_0002xsito.jpg

In addition to its other helicopter and fixed wing fleets, Abu Dhabi Aviation also owns Maximus Air Cargo, the largest air cargo provider in the Middle East and is a 50% shareholder of Royal Jet, the leading VIP charter company in the region. Abu Dhabi Aviation operates one of the world’s largest civil fleets of 20 AW139s and has been an AgustaWestland Service Centre since 2005. From its large and modern maintenance facilities located at Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi Aviation is uniquely positioned to support AgustaWestland’s remarkably successful AW139 and other models. There are now nearly two hundred of these sophisticated, third-generation helicopters operating in both civil and military roles with many in the Middle East region.


Capitalizing upon the depth of their respective resources, the synergies created through the Abu Dhabi Aviation and AgustaWestland joint venture shall deliver a new level of customer support and services locally within the region. Customers can expect to see a wide range of services in Abu Dhabi that have historically been available only from the manufacturer in Italy or the United States. Given Abu Dhabi Aviation’s goals of becoming an even more global aviation enterprise than its current international business scope, this joint venture with AgustaWestland is yet another initiative to extend the Abu Dhabi and AgustaWestland brands.

[fluffy5]

That sounds great. As the whole goverment is driving towards any company that wants to set up a maintenance company here. As in Al Ain for the first Airport cluster being built for avaition enginneering for airbus.
So every company will send their pilots to type in Abu, instead of italy......
I'm sure the pilots at dubai will be over joyed just to travel a couple of hours to abu on a good day, instead of having to put up with Italy for a few weeks, the lucky people.....

[ironbird123]

Anything new at ADA please?

[kingofthebean]

I am interested in applying for a position on the ADA SAR contract in the future and was wondering if anyone had information on aircrewman and rescue crewman jobs with ADA. Any information about minimum qualifications for both roles, pay and rosters would be much appreciated. I currently reside in Australia working SAR on a contract for the RAAF.

Cheers

[Eng AW139]

Apply online www.adaviation.com (http://www.adaviation.com) :ok:

[spinwing]

Mmm ...

I understand that contract will be coming up for renewal in August this year ... so be aware if your hired soon you might (but not likely) be un-hired by September if they do not get it ????


:eek:

[asianrotorhunter]

Anyone know their current pilot needs? Are they recruiting, or are things a bit quiet there at the moment?

:)

[rotorhead350]

I do know that they are looking for Engineers now seeing how a lot of guys are fed up with the BS and working with unqualified co-workers. In the past 1-2 months there have been 8-10 resignations that i know of, and more are not far behind. Not to mention doing an 8/4 rotation when down the road FAS is offering a 6/6 for the same money. The latest i've heard now is ADA is going to have guys sign a contract stating that if they leave they cannot work for another aviation company in Abu Dhabi for 1 year. I know they have a gentlemans agreement with FAS that either one won't hire a former employee for 6 months but talking to a few people that have been in contact with FAS they are looking at ways around this as they are in serious need of people.

rh350

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ....


....... any one know about FAS are they hiring Bell 412 EP pilots .....


Yes I understand they are ...... BUT ..... you you HAVE to have some pretty specific qualifications and experience ...... very much the same sort of experience as WAS required to get into ADA so many years ago (ie Canuk Passport :}) ....


Apply via their web site or via the "Old Boys Network" ...... ;)

[sandbunny]

Spinwing - sounds a bit like a case of sour grapes to me. Since you are obviously 'in the know' and have all the hard facts maybe you could just let us know the actual ratio of nationalities; just as a matter of conjecture?

By the way this 'Hmmmm' business is getting pretty boring!

[griffothefog]

sandbunny,

That time of the month is it?? :{

Or do you have your own sour grapes to squeeze? :E

I don't know why people with nothing useful to contribute bother posting... :(

On a more constructive note, A6-BBS (212) was down this way from ADA last week, anyone know what it's upto?? :ok:

[spinwing]

Hey sandbunney ...


Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm ..... :}


;)

[spinwing]

Mmmm...

Bell pilot .....

At the moment I believe they prefer to work a 6wk On /6wk Off roster ....

It would appear they fly their hours out very quickly due to the tasking of Ops in the Zakum field ... and sometimes due to the leave schedule and pilot availability they're short of crew ... this will get better as they get enough personnel hired ....

Good Luck

[hueyracer]

Any ideas about the app. flight hours on one 6-week-schedule?

Just filled out the online form-and am a little unhappy with that..would prefer to send my cv......

Anyone there with a foot in the door and "internal" informations?
(PM-me)..

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ...

....Anyone there with a foot in the door and "internal" informations? ...


Yes of course ..... BUT ... that won't really help you unless your ....

a. Ex ADA ... with local area experience, license etc ...

B. An old mate of somebody already there (preferably one of the "Canadian mafia")

[note to 'sandbunny' ... that was a joke this time I'm telling you so you can know!].

Monthly hours flown will be in accordance with GCAA regs ....... (sort off) 90 hrs in any 28 day period ??? etc etc etc

Good luck

[Pilot135pd]

I like it, a thread with actual information!

I interviewed with ADA and I'm waiting for a reply. In the meantime does anyone know living conditions in the compounds for their employees?

Simple things like

private apartments vs rooms ,
gym facilities vs just jogging around the area,
fast food places vs kitchenettes in the apt/rooms,
free wifi vs having to pay for your own internet access,

things like that. I've read the entire thread so I'm looking for some updated info for this year at least.

[Foggy Bottom]

I interviewed with ADA and I'm waiting for a reply. In the meantime does anyone know living conditions in the compounds for their employees?

Simple things like

private apartments vs rooms ,
gym facilities vs just jogging around the area,
fast food places vs kitchenettes in the apt/rooms,
free wifi vs having to pay for your own internet access,

Now that was one funny post!!

[Pilot135pd]

What's so funny about it?

[captpugwash]

just take the job and see whats so funny... :8

[the delaminator]

AAhahahahahahahhahhhahahahahahaaaaaaaa

Wait minute I............I'm just..............ahaahahahahhahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaa

Free Wifi!!!

Cracks me up.

Whoooo!

[Pilot135pd]

Well up to now I have confirmed via email that there's free wifi in a few hotels in Abu Dhabi so it's not such a ridiculous question. I'm glad that when you initially went there you knew everything there was to know so you didn't have to ask anyone.

I just don't get this attitude. I've been flying for decades, ATP/CFII in both airplane and helos, retired US Air Force, and lots of other accomplishments but one thing you'll never see me doing is making fun of or looking down on somebody for asking a question. When I don't want to answer a question or don't know the answer, I just don't post anything.

[captpugwash]

no one is doubting your accomplishments as an aviator, credit where credits due,;) you are probably up there with some of the best...Just don't take yourself too serious...some of the guys making posts have probably done sometime in the UAE and you should be able to read between the lines...why don't you contact ADA and ask about the accomodation, gym/sauna, theatre, free internet and before you commit get something in writing. I know they are building a new facility for the pilots and engineers which should be completed any day soon which will be great...Good luck with the new job:)

[the delaminator]

Yeah you are right. Sorry about that. It's just that ADA's living standards have such a terrible reputation that it seemed funny.

They were in the process of improving the situation (for about the last 8 years) but last I looked most people were living in temporary prefab trailers ( called van's locally) that were designed to last about 10 years max in that environment. They've been in them for around 30 years.

They have mold, leak and some might have vermin.

Try Falcon aviation in Abu Dhabi. Probably a better situation all around.

[thechopper]

:ugh:
are these not the questions to ask at the interview?
Thought that was what an interview normally includes; do you have any question for me/us?
Or did they not invite you to ask. If anybody knows, it would be the interviewer.:=:=

[Senior Pilot]

are these not the questions to ask at the interview?
Thought that was what an interview normally includes; do you have any question for me/us?
Or did they not invite you to ask. If anybody knows, it would be the interviewer.

I suggest that since Rotorheads is normally a helpful source of information, Pilot135pd thought that he would get a helpful response to his request.

Unlike your reply :=

[thechopper]

Thought it might be helpful for the next inview. :suspect:But then maybe I am wrong. I might excercise more restraint when I post next.:oh:

[Foggy Bottom]

It does not take much research at all to find out that ADA's living area is one of the worst, if not the worst, in all of aviation. I have been in many, many field camps in the deserts of Yemen to the North Slope of Alaska, and everyone of those camps was better then the ADA living compound! The camp was built about 30 years ago as a temporary measure and ADA has been promising a new living compound for at least 15 years that I know about. I know of one pilot that spent one night in the camp and just went back to the airport and left the country. I know a couple of guys that pay out of their pockets to live elsewhere...Prepare to be sick, a lot!

Free Wifi! Private Apartment living!! ROTFLMAO!!!! It's still funny!!!!

[griffothefog]

I spent 3 years with ADA and had a great time... The pilots there were some of the best professionals I have worked with anywhere in the world, and that includes the north sea/irish sea/sns. Of course one or two knob's always slip through the net, but they are soon found out and usually removed :E

As for the accommodation, I never had a problem.... Got off the flight, got in a taxi and went straight to my 3 bed apartment in town that my honey had set up as her contract started before mine :ok:

Never spent one single night in the "chicken ranch" :p

Yes it costs you money, but if you are happy, there is a life outside ADA and there is/was always plenty of overtime/workovers to make up for the rent :ok:

Just depends what sort of deal you are after really, but I know that my gig would not suit everyone.

Good luck and watch out for bandits at 3 o'clock in the Zakum field. :p

[Pilot135pd]

Never having worked overseas in the civilian world I didn't really have much to go on. I did asked about travel to and from work and different options and other things that came to mind like training. I don't think an interviewer would have told me the bad things if they want me to join them would they? I wasn't even thinking of working overseas until I got the email to go interview. I interviewed and then came here and have been reading lots of information about the area.

I've been reading every thread and every post since 2001 a few months after 9/11 and it's interesting to see how things have evolved. This brought up questions that I hadn't thought of since wifi is everywhere here in the USA as are the other things I was asking about. Trust me if I had found anything about it I wouldn't have posted the questions. I've been a member of this forum for a few years now and I'm not the type to ask without doing a complete search. I hate it when someone pops up and asks a question that was just answered 2 pages back because he was too lazy to read the entire thread from the beginning and wanted instant gratification.

I'm looking for someone who is currently working there who has CURRENT knowledge. Things change in just a year. In just one year I went from flying a nice EMS configured SPIFR MD902, living 7 days at home then 7 days in a brand new company furnished apartment with my own room, wifi, Sat TV, utilities all paid for by the company, to being here looking for info on living conditions in UAE and living in Spain on my off time. BTW finding a honey to live with in UAE did cross my mind and is on my "to do" list, already found one in Spain just in case she's needed.

Anyone who knows what today's conditions are would be very helpful. Thanks.

[Eng AW139]

The ADA camp as it is known only houses a small portion of the employees as the company has expanded in other areas.

[Pilot135pd]

Thank you. So where do they house new employees? They're on a recruiting spree in USA and Canada this month so lots of people should be going there soon.

[stacey_s]

well!!! have they been hired for the Saudi Arabia contract? if so don't worry about the camp!!

S

[Pilot135pd]

The new hires are staying in Abu Dhabi and current ADA pilots are going to the EMS contract first. After indoc and a couple of hitches in Abu Dhabi then there will be rotation so I guess I still need the info.

[spitfiremk9]

HI

with all do respect. just some thoughts

I think its a little strange how some respond to questions that pops up at this forum. Because thats what it is.

I believe, the best would be to respond in a positive way, instead of using time and energy explaining how bad someone else`s question is.

I also read throug a complete thread in order to find what I am seeking.

sometimes i find it and sometimes I dont. And lots of times a find stuff that arent worth reading.:bored:

I would think, if the question applies, answer it and do it properly and with respect to the person who is asking, if not, just walk away. Its as simple as that.

alltough we all know the saying, there are no stupid questions, only bad answers.

good weekend from Greenland

[Reefdog]

Hello Pilot135pd

Some good questions and some not so good answers from some people

here are the GPS co-ordinates for tha ADA camp for Google earth
N 24°24'33.89" E 54°28'59.61" and zoom down to 500 feet you will see the full extent of the camp..

Its right next to the 3rd biggest Mosque in the world, so good luck on sleeping

Only about half the pilots are in that camp,,the rest are scattered around different other apartments and villa's around Abu Dhabi......

you will have to get your own internet connect ( you pay for it) in the camp and other villas..Unless you get some guy to share his connection,,
internet available at the main ada operations line office but only dial up..

you will get NOTHING for free from ada...apart from housing....

Would be very surprised if ADA puts new guys in the Zakim field and send experienced Zakim field pilots to KSA

Good luck on the new job Inshialla

[Pilot135pd]

Thank you very much. I interviewed and sent in my application. Now waiting for their packet to fill out required paperwork. I understand they don't officially offer a job until they have everything back and the local background investigation is passed so until then I don't have a job yet.

I just don't like leaving everything for the last minute so I'm researching as much as I can so there are less surprises.

[expatron]

.....Would be very surprised if ADA puts new guys in the Zakim field and send experienced Zakim field pilots to KSA



ADA doesn't operate on the Zakum field anymore that's FAS territory and 80% of the pilots there are new guys.:rolleyes:

[spinwing]

Mmmmmm ... ...

Reefdog o'l darlin ... your a mite out of touch ....

Old hands are going to Saudi 'cos they know the conditions and what to expect ... perhaps they will only start the contract perhaps they will stay.

ADA's obligation in Zakum is no longer what it used to be .... emphasis is now on better things elsewhere ... and nobody is complaining about that ... Umm Shaif, Mubarraz and Bunduq ops now are used to get 'new chums' sorted and up to speed ... and then its up to an individuals abilities, personality etc etc to see what and where they end up!

The beloved (?) camp is on the way out .... BUT for some it will be sorely missed ... yes it has its problems but it also has many social advantages ... it all depends on who you are, what you expect and all of that .... the new setup may well be a better or worse ... time will tell ....

Certainly the Grand Mosque does not pose any more noise issues than would be normally be associated with normal life in an Islamic country ...

As 'Griffo' says .... those interested will get to fly with some really good blokes .....


Give it a try ..... :D

[Pilot135pd]

All right, we're finally starting to get some good information. Thank you!

[Freestream]

The camp can be party central from what I understand, I know that the SAR guys have 4 villas in khalifa (A) which are real good, Internet is at individual expense most of the guys share the costs.

[Loose_Cyclic]

Pilot135pd

As an SAR pilot you would be housed in a shared villa in Kalifa A, as Freestream has said. I am currently offshore and not SAR and live in Kalifa B, again in a shared 5 bedroom villa, the internet we purchase ourselves and we are paying approx $24 USD a month each. In Kalifa B there are 6 villas housing fixed wing pilots, offshore heli pilots and engineers, ADA also has villas in Musafa, the old camp is pretty much as you have heard others describe, there is a new camp under construction with about 50 villas, although rumour has it that ADA will never occupy this site and it will be leased to the new university under construction nearby.

ADA does provide transportation to and from work so you don't need to buy a car although I did, it's nice to have the freedom to go to the gym, downtown or the grocery store at my convenience and not have to wait for the company bus, gym memberships are very expensive here, I think the officer's club gym is about 6000 Dhrs, that's $1600 per year, the company will give you a little towards that, I think they will pay 2000 Dhrs but I'm not certain.

All in all ADA is a pretty good place to work and there's a great bunch of pilots, it's not perfect but where is? If you need any more info please send me a PM.

Good luck. :ok:

[helo_aviator]

For anyone wondering about pay rates etc. at ADA:

I had been searching and emailing questions about ADA for quite some time (like for the last two years..), and it was not until today that I finally have the answer - so I will make it easy for anyone in my position, currently looking at the possibility of working there:

$278.25/onsite day (after a 4 month probation where you only get $210)

Based on TT and experience, I should have been offered a Pilot position (and was told this initially), but this rate is for a co-pilot, and is what I was offered today.

As someone had stated previously in this thread, this pay rate is a HUGE step-back for anyone who has been flying for any length of time!!!!

So, the rumours of ADA letting the high-time, experienced, and well paid pilots out to pasture - and then hiring lower time guys (I have 3000 hours) or those looking to get into the off-shore business for the first time, ARE ABSOLUTELY TRUE.

If you are willing to work for this, you can take the offer of employment that I received and insert your name instead.

Thought there might be a few folks out there who would like this tidbit of info...I wish somone had told me the truth about ADA's pay a long time ago, it would have saved me an ulcer and a lot of frustration (and I haven't even mentioned how they told me that I was hired last year, only to go through all the paperwork, told I was accepted for a position, and then no official offer - as per the earlier threads, DO NOT BELIEVE ANYTHING UNTIL IT'S ON PAPER, AND YOU ARE ACTUALLY IN ABU DHABI)

Life is good where I'm at all of a sudden.

[Pilot135pd]

Thank you very much. I'll definitely PM you as soon as I get all my basic questions written down. This will help me out a lot. Thanks again all of you for the info.

[Pilot135pd]

Please help me understand this since I just received the application package this morning and I just interviewed less than 2 weeks ago. I'm also experienced (more than 3000 hrs) and taking a pay cut but I see it as the price to pay for the experience in international flying, O&G. and the BH412. I hope that with my previous experience I'll be moving quickly into EMS with them which pays a little more too. I'm very interested in flying for them so I really want to understand the entire process.

You say : they told me that I was hired last year, only to go through all the paperwork, told I was accepted for a position, and then no official offer

Could you give me approximate dates? Maybe just month and year since it all seems so far apart:

When did you interview with them ?

When did they tell you you were hired?

When did you fill out all the paperwork for the background investigation and UAE aeromedical stuff?

You got a job offer from them today May 31, 2010 ?

Thanks!

[Pilot135pd]

I just PM'd you Loose_Cyclic. :ok:

[spinwing]

Mmm ....

helo_aviator .... your quote ...

.... So, the rumours of ADA letting the high-time, experienced, and well paid pilots out to pasture - and then hiring lower time guys (I have 3000 hours) or those looking to get into the off-shore business for the first time, ARE ABSOLUTELY TRUE. ....

... IS AN ABSOLUTE LOAD OF BOLLOCKS .....

If you ever get here and find yourself in one of their aircraft .... have a look at the bloke sharing the cockpit he will most likely be a grey haired veteran with perhaps 20+ thousand hours logged ... YES he may be a 'Silverback' but ADA won't like to see him go UNTIL he is forced to retire by regulations.

ADA may lose people slowly due to retirements and this will get worse 'cos now is the time the Viet Vets are 'timexing' this is not as you infer an ADA plan to get rid of the 'senior' guys just because they are high paid!

What ADA IS doing is training to cope with attrition ......

Come out here prove yourself ..... till then keep to the facts ....


:=

[Pilot135pd]

This is his first post here although he's been emailing many people during the last 2 years and the dates he mentions don't sound right either so I asked him but he hasn't replied yet.

I get the feeling he's the same guy who bashes every company on the dark side that has come over here now to try to stir things up. I may be wrong and if I am I'll apologize but up to now that's the gut feeling I'm getting.

[helo_aviator]

Well then, as my father used to say, "please wind your necks in".

I apologise for assumption that the daily rates have been cut down extensively because the experienced guys are getting forced out.

However, it amazes me that I had been told to expect closer to $600/day, and then a year later be told that it would be less then half that.

I did not receive a PM from anyone, so please try again, and if you provide me your phone number, I will actually call you and share the story firsthand if you wish...and not likely put another post on here again due to the previous reaction.

The real item that I wanted to pass on was the pay, as I had been trying to find out for quite some time (and I already make more then they offer, so I'm quite disappointed).

[captpugwash]

I suppose the payrates mentioned reflect the experience that yourself and Pilot135pd have to offer. I mean 3000 hrs is only just making the minimum requirement as far as I am aware. Then theres the endorsement and the offshore experience.
As Spinwing mentioned in his last post there is still plenty of talented guys pushing 20 plus thousand hours who aren't going away until the regs push them out.
If you are taking a paycut then you have to look at where you will be in the next few years...sometimes you have to take a step back before moving forward.

[gulliBell]

CHC might offer you a better deal than ADA, certainly closer to home...$x33 CAD/day worked plus a retainer of $y974 CAD/month...if you've got 3000+ hours on S76. PM me if you want to know what x and y are.

[Loose_Cyclic]

ADA currently has three pay grades, Levels 1, 2 & 3, last year ADA laid off about a dozen or more pilots, mostly level 1s, the highest pay grade and a lot of the guys laid off where pushing 60, some over 60. This was due to the loss of the Zakum field contract. They also made all there 8&4 pilots go 6&6. Now ADA has new contracts and is hiring again, they are also offering 8&4 to existing pilots who want it. This is the first year that ADA has introduced a level 3, co-pilot, position. So effectively they have replaced experienced level 1s with new copilots (3000hr guys), whether this is coincidence or by design I will not speculate, but it is true!

[Pilot135pd]

Helo_Aviator,

I PM'd you right now and included a phone number.


Loose_Cyclic, I just PM'd you my direct email and reply.

[Pilot135pd]

If you are taking a paycut then you have to look at where you will be in the next few years...sometimes you have to take a step back before moving forward.


That's exactly what I'm thinking right now. :D Even athletes take a step back before starting their run and look what boxers due when they take a step back before unloading a punch ! :ok:

[Pilot135pd]

OK as I said previously if needed I'd come back and apologize.

I PM'd my phone number to helo_aviator and he called me today. We spoke about the issues and cleared up some things. I stand by my initial gut feeling regarding something not adding up on his first post but after talking to him we were able to connect the dots. I suppose he was so upset at everything going on that when he wrote his post he left out some very important things that would tie everything together. I apologize for my first reaction to his post.

He seems like a very nice guy and during our conversation I might have even given him insight into why going over to the ME right now might even be a good choice for him too. Hope to see him over there soon !

[spinwing]

Mmmm ...

P135 ... Good for you .... well done ....

And I stand by my post as well .... I have had many PM's from people wanting info ... as a general rule I respond and explain to them what goes on ... and why ...

However ... an aggressive stranger telling me to .. 'wind my neck in' ... gives me the opportunity to allow him to either miss a great opportunity or make a fool of himself ....


;)

[Pilot135pd]

I gotcha.

How about drinking water? Is it safe to drink or do I need to buy a steripen or something like that? What do you guys do all day in that heat? I hope the 412s and 139s have a good a/c system !

[spinwing]

Mmmm ..

Ok ... water will be available (usually in bottled form) and safe to drink ...


139's are all air conditioned ... Abu Dhabi based 412's are NOT ...


:cool:

[Pilot135pd]

... Abu Dhabi based 412's are NOT ...

Oh great :ugh::mad::mad::ugh:

[spinwing]

Mmmm

Hey its not as bad as it might seem .... but you do need to acclimatise ...

Summers hot .... Winters are GREAT !!!

[Pilot135pd]

I was raised in the Caribbean, hot and humid so I'm hoping it won't be so bad and I'm going in the worst time now so it can only get better from here (positive guy talking).

[spinwing]

Mmm ...

Here is HOT and can be VERY dry ...

We have quite a few guys here from the caribbean (and close by) ... you will feel right at home ...


:ok:

[Pilot135pd]

Ok so then it'll be more like in Phoenix where my sister lives, 115 and dry. Like walking inside an oven.

[spinwing]

Mmm ...

Yup .... thats about it! :ok:

[Epiphany]

Pilot 135. I'd do some more research on the weather as well as pay conditions. Humidity will be VERY high. Dry as in it doesn't rain very much.

If you are OK with that and don't mind getting screwed around, lied to and have absolutely no job security then go for it.

As a wise old ADA pilot once told me when I started working there :
"Son, if you are here for ANY reason other than the tax-free money, then you're here for the wrong reason".

Took me one tour to realise I was there for the wrong reason.

[Loose_Cyclic]

Abu Dhabi is 42℃ today and slightly humid, it will get VERY humid as the summer goes on! It's nothing like Phoenix, trust me.

[spinwing]

Mmmm ...

Ok ... Daytime Relative humidity today between 20-30% which I'll call DRY

Nighttime RH I concede may rise to 70% ...

But during high summer (on it way) it will become VERY DRY!



for more info refer to METAR/Synop Information for OMAA in Abu Dhabi International, United Arab Emirates (http://weather.gladstonefamily.net/site/OMAA?metric=1;tile=10;humidity=1#dewpoint)



:}

[Pilot135pd]

If you are OK with that and don't mind getting screwed around, lied to and have absolutely no job security then go for it.

Sounds like they're just like most companies back in the States, except that in UAE they'll pay you more, so I don't really see much of a downside. :confused:

[Eurofly-ita]

Hi to everybody,
could someone please confirm salary condition at Abu Dhabi Aviation? I'm a little confused. For someone is 450$ a day for some other 700$. Is there somebody who are currently working over there.
Thanks.

Cheers.

:ok:

[Pilot135pd]

Potential for deportation, holding your passport, confiscating your goods or worse if you get too mouthy.
If you think you can act like you would at home, you're in for a shocker.
Other than that... I hear it's paradise.

I don't know who you are or where you are but this is what gets me about your post :

When you say I hear it's paradise it makes me think that you're just repeating something you've heard but don't really know it for a fact.

Have you been there in the last 12 months?

I act the same here or when traveling because that's the way I was raised so I have no problem with that part. Regarding the other three allegations, anybody currently there want to chime on a them?

[spinwing]

Mmmm

Eurofly .....

There are 3 pay scales depending on which level you are hired on ...

Initially expect to hire on at a 'probationary level' which will change when you have completed orientation and gotten your various pieces of paper.

They have in the past hired guys on top money only to find after 6 months they they cannot make the grade ... this policy has now changed to hiring guys at a lower rate initially and once they qualify (prove themselves) they get a good pay boost ...

Those that don't make the grade ... well ....... (use your imagination ...)

take care ;)

[Pilot135pd]

????????

What happened to Um... lifting... 's post? He must have deleted it.

Anybody wish to answer his allegations anyway since they've been floating around for a while and I've heard them previously too?

[spinwing]

Mmmm ...

...... Anybody wish to answer his allegations ...

No ... not worth the effort!


:=

[Pilot135pd]

That's the problem. Until someone says it's true or not the rumors keep floating around. Could it be that since you're in-country you can't talk about things like that? If so then I'll understand and ask someone else later via direct email. :ok:

[Pilot135pd]

Guess I'm too fast for this system. Just got and replied to a PM :ok:

[Epiphany]

Pilot 135. If you ask questions about ADA you will receive conflicting reports from many who have worked there - as you would about any other helicopter operator.

Some enjoyed their time there, others did not. I thought the place was awful (with the exception of flying with some very experienced and professional gentlemen) and did not stay. I put that down to experience.

I think you have convinced yourself that for you it is a good move and not having worked in USA I cannot comment on operators and work conditions there for helicopter pilots. So the only way you are going to discover if it is a good move is to go there and find out yourself.

By 'job security' I am talking about getting fired for a variety of reasons including upsetting those locals of a delicate disposition and literally finding yourself on a flight home later that day. I witnessed this on a number of occasions during my time there.

If you have a unpaid loan there however, you will not be allowed to leave until you have repaid it. If that means spending time behind bars (the metal kind) then you will. And then of course there are the Mumbai mafia - but you can make your own mind up about them.

Good luck - Inshallah.

[stacey_s]

Questions on, pay, heat,humidity, the internet, accomodation, not one on how's the Engineering or condition of helicopters you are going to fly?, before someone gets the wrong idea it was always on the good side in my opinion, but you can always accuse me of being bias!!, enjoy it I did (Engineer) for nine years.

S

[Pilot135pd]

Thanks Epiphany. Yes most employers when it comes down to EMS operations are pretty much as you have described the ME employers.

Regarding having outstanding loans, one of my questions is precisely that. How much money should I take for my first hitch until I figure out how everything works over there. I'm not going to need a loan if I can take it from here or have access to an ATM over there.

[Pilot135pd]

Actually stacey_s, you make a great point. The reason I haven't asked about that is because although ADA might be lacking in other areas at least what I have read about them is that they are #1 in maintaining the fleet.

That's the first thing I researched before even considering ADA or any other company. I've worked for companies that don't seem to care if their machines are top notch or not and hope to never have to do it again. I really hated when after complaining about a specific helicopter for a while I called the mechanic and he came over for a really weird noise the turbine was making on start up. The mechanic verified with the main office and told them it wasn't normal but they disregarded his opinion and they said it was ok and I took off. Less than an hour in flight and the engine exploded with 2 large bangs that almost shook my glasses off of my face ! Good thing it was a twin and I was just 3 miles away from an airport. I limped it in and never flew for them again.

[pd2]

Loans???

Excuse my ignorance, but why would you take out a loan?

I also have put in an application so I have been eagerly following this thread.

[nedrover]

There seem to be a lot of opinion based on hearsay and not experience.

ADA is regulated to international standards the same as any other operator anywhere. It is frequently audited by outside agencies including the FAA, EASA and most of the major oil companies.

As a pilot you will gain a very varied experience, not just in Abu Dhabi but in a increasing number of other countries, worldwide.

Passports are not taken.

Social life can be ,if you are interested, extremely varied. All major hotel chains are represented (only a very small number are not licensed), it is one of the food capitals of the world.

Theatre, music, art, golf etc are all available.

Of course if you wish to roll out on the streets drunk, your visit will be brief, but if you wish to get on with your job in a sensible manner then ADA can be a very good place indeed.

NR:ok:

[AS332L1]

I had a brilliant time there [but it was in the 80's] best job I ever had working with a great bunch of engineers [and pilots] but crap accommodation [which still has not changed]:ok:

A very enjoyable and rewarding 7 years

[S76driver]

I too am following this thread as I have popped an application in. Still waiting to hear more but keeping my fingers crossed.

[oldtimersdisease]

I worked there for a while a few years back and didn't enjoy it at all. The aircraft were well maintained and there were many good guys working for the company, but the management and the housing then were awful. I still maintain contact with a few friends there who tell me that things have improved, but only slightly.
While I was there more than 30 pilots either left or were sacked, but I don't know if turnover rates have changed lately.
Also when I was there, the average pilot had more than 10,000 hours, so the experience level was very high. My passport was always taken and after I quit, I was not given it back until I had statements from the bank to show that I had no outstanding bank or credit debts and from Etisalat to show that my account was closed and my bill paid. I was not given back my passport until after I had passed through immigration. One friend who allegedly had a debt because of a mistake by a car dealer, was arrested and imprisoned on his way out. The main reason most people have a loan there is to buy a car.

[Pilot135pd]

Thank you nedrover. That's what I've been saying, lots of rumors out there that nobody addresses directly here. I've gotten a few PMs though so I'm clear but as we can see there are lots of people here reading these posts laying quietly in the shadows.

[munsterflyer]

anyone been offered co-pilot positions with ADA

[FalkoB]

i know two guys that just got a job with ADA as a SIC in 412.

Guy 1) flew couple years in GOM.
Guy 2) has 1600hrs in piston , no turbine time but knew somebody inside ADA.

[Pilot135pd]

They were offered jobs already? When did they interview?

[NewST]

Had a friend get an offer the other day off of a phone interview. I believe that he spoke to them on the 25th or 26th of May and got an offer on Memorial day. (Guess the ADA guys don't get memorial day off....lol)

[Pilot135pd]

He must be extremely talented and experienced because I was told by ADA that they can't make job offers until after the UAE security investigation is complete, something about it being a UAE government prerequisite.

Maybe either ADA decided it was worth risking it with the government or your friend misinterpreted what they told him?

[aclark79]

Or option 3, ADA made a tentative offer pending passing the background/visa process.

[NewST]

It was option 3. I don't know his actual report date, but he did give 21 days notice at his present employment.

[Pilot135pd]

I still think it was Option 2 because we all got that email on Memorial Day :

We look forward to receiving your documents and pending successful security clearance, joining the team at Abu Dhabi Aviation.

I also remember that we were told NOT to resign until we get the official offer. That's why the paperwork clearly asks How many weeks notice do you have to give your employer?

Hopefully we'll all get the clearance and meet over there as co-workers but until then as much as I want to go work over there I won't count my chickens until they're hatched. := This way I'm still excited but with an open mind so I'm not setting myself up for disappointment. :ok:

[DrNickRiviera]

...and the saga continues.

[Pilot135pd]

I agree there's no such thing a the prefect job. You take a job and you learn from it. Sometimes it's a pleasure and sometimes it's hell while you're acquiring that experience but you still get some kind of experience out of every job and I'm talking about not only flight experience. You gain life experience too if you're so lucky. I know that every company I've worked for no matter how awful or how great, I've gotten something positive out of it maybe because I'm a positive person. I might not have seen it at the time but looking back I have seen it.

[Epiphany]

Pilot 135. You have just had your first lesson in the realities of ADA and the Middle East in general. What you are told one day does not necessarily apply the next. Also it is a case of who you know - not what you know.

Nothing is 'fair' or consistent. If there is a problem and you are the only expat involved then it will be your fault.

You have certainly done the right thing by asking for advice on this forum before signing up but understand that nothing will be the same as it is back home. In ADA and the Middle East you are playing by their rules - not your own sense of justice or right and wrong.

Accept these truths and live with it or save yourself a lot of heartache and look elsewhere.

From one who knows.:suspect:

[Pilot135pd]

I totally agree and that's why I'm sitting here with an open mind :ok:

[Motion Lotion]

Pilot 135.

Please, continue your dissertation throughout the whole process please. There will be lots out there wanting to know the current situation with ADA, both good and bad.

Well done! :ok:

Motion

[spinwing]

Mmmmm ...

However .... Kerosene .... JetA1 ... is often referred to as "Motion Lotion" ... ;)