Moving out to the ME with just TP time

[Blueskyrich]

Hello everyone,

I realise this may be a common question, but I can't find a thread that directly answers my question.

I'm currently flying the a TP in the UK, just shy of 1600hrs total time with just under 1300hrs on the Dash 8. I've been issued with my ATPL and whilst life isn't bad, I'm getting to the point where I'm ready to move on to the next stage of my career.

Moving out to the Middle East is something that we've been interested in for a long time and whilst I do appreciate that it's certainly not all a bed of roses out there, there are still some great opportunities to be had.

My main issue is my lack of jet time. All the bigger players in that part of the world are all after jet-rated guys (granted, I know I'm eligible for the QR 2nd Officer route). In reality, is there much of a chance for somebody with my level of experience getting a jet job over there or am I setting my sights a little too high at the moment?

I realise that the situation can be fluid at times and there have been murmours of certain carriers reducing their requirements.

Any thoughts would be very welcome.

[FrankR]

You can never set your sights too high! Act like a professional, and make personal contact with everyone you can. I know plenty of low time guys who "lucked out" and got hired because they went and met pilots and asked for a chance. FO's Capt's Chief Pilots, DO's ... talk with anyone who will listen. It's not easy, but it works

The MENA area is full of complainers and whiners. Don't listen to them or you'll become one of them. MENA is not London, Emirates is not BA!

Emailing resumes and complaining to your mates will only wear you down.

FR

[moggiee]

Unless you apply, you'll never know if they'll accept you! It costs little or nothing to give it a go and then you'll have an answer.

[Blueskyrich]

Thanks for the positive remarks - very much appreciated.

Moggiee - will drop you a PM this evening. "Why?" I hear you ask. You did my MCC back in late 2007 and I hadn't realised you'd moved out there. Will drop you a line to say hello. Still supporting that silly football team? :}

Also, if there are any people out there who work out in the Middle East that would like to share their experiences/advice, I'd be really keen to hear from. PM me if you like if you want to keep it off a public forum. Anything you have, however small, would be gratefully received.

Thanks again,
Blueskyrich