BA Connect (was City Express)

[oldandskint]

Does anyone have any 'up to date' info about the bacx interview process, especially interview format and sim check/profile etc??
Have searched pprune but the threads are quite old.
Anyone been thru recently willing to share an up to date insight on the process. Also are courses going on to RJ100/D8/EMB145?
Any help appreciated.

[Jinkster]

If you can give me your email in a PM - I'll send you some stuff that may be of use!

:)

[the aviator1977]

Has anyone been to an interview with bacitiexpress within the last 12 months? If so I would appreciate any info of the structure of the interview, types of quetions etc etc to help me get prepared. I'll also pass on any new info after my interview.

[Mr Wonka]

the aviator1977

What is your back ground? in terms of experiance and hours ? I think you have done well to get an interview, very few have even had a response of thanks but no thanks.....


Good luck anyway


:ok:

Mr W

[V2andSOME]

Mr.Wonka Check your PM.
regards
V2

[the aviator1977]

Modular low hrs looking for first airline job. I applied last year and didn't even get a reply.

[CaptYanknBank]

Anyone out there who can offer hints/tips/info for the BACX interview?

Just got an email confirming accepted for interview, date to be advised.

:ok:

37yrs, Modular, 800TT (500 FI)

[monkeyboy]

Just be yourself. It's more of a chat than a grilling. Know the differences between jets and TPs with regards to basic principles of flt and have an idea of how many bases and aircraft types we have.

Above all, enjoy it. :D

[lookoutbelow]

Hi,

The only thing I can add is know the responses you made on the app form to the essay/open ended questions. In my interview they wanted to explore them in a little more detail.

Also, a few questions as I remember on CRM, the importance of it in todays commercial environment, SOP's, your understanding of why airlines use them, if and when they can be deviated from etc.

As previously mentioned, know the details on the airline, such as A/C operated, bases, route structure, future plans etc.

Best of luck.

Lookoutbelow

[CAT3C AUTOLAND]

CYB, you kept that quiet cross feed problem boy ;).

[Cavallier]

That is suprising from someone who infringes runways at Liverpool Cat 3C !

Mind you, hands up, my student did fly into Class A without a clearance on a solo cross country.

The Cav;)

[Jimmy Breeze]

I have a few friends who recently went through the Citiexpress selection and they all said the interview was friendly.
You should be good buddy

Good Luck

[Mr Wonka]

JB

Any chance of a more detailed insight to the interview questions ?

Thanks

Mr w

[JetAngel]

Does any one know from recent interviews if there are any technical questions? And if there are what can we be expecting?

Many thanks

[Mr Wonka]

Hello all,

Yes Ive done a search but is there anyone out there with detailed information regrading the questions used by the interview panel?

Is there anyone that can give info on the sim check route and of there are any expected engine failures ????


Thanks

Mr W

[Busbo]

Hi all, I relise this question had been asked before so dont start yelling at me for not searching first because I did and not many people answered. Has anyone recently had the BACX interview that wouldn't mind sharing their experience with the rest of us? I know I'll be sure to once I've had mine. Any advice on type of question asked etc would be much appreciated. Thanks

[susoal]

Hi...had my interview few months ago....Pretty relax. Nothing technical. More of a "get to know you " type of questions. 2 on 1 interview with the Head of flight Crews and one admin person. Typical questions were askes...Why BACX? Why should we hire you?...What can you bring to the company that differentiates you from the rest of applicants?...etc, etc.

[mightymouse111]

I agree, there is nothing in there that you will not know and not really a lot to prepare for. I got the impression they were looking at your personality a lot. Most of the topics have been covered in detail previously in this section, but they are pretty straight forward interview questions, why bacx, what can you offer, (remember your essay answers) etc
I can inderstand you wanting to prepare fully, but really nothing in there to be afraid of, and they can always tell when someone has come with pre-prepared answers!
They are really nice people and put you at ease. Good luck

[Busbo]

OK, thanks guys (or gals) you've actually made me feel at least a little more at ease! Fingers crossed.

[eghi r20]

Hiya

I didn’t get through mine.

Q's - would u go against SOP's.
My A =Only if the A/C safety would be compromised not to do so.
(don’t think they liked that, although given that ans by a BACXP pilot I know)


Q=When did u last make a critical decision, and what did u do to put it right

Q= I really struggled with this one. Clutching at straws on this one.

All other Q's were normal stuff and went ok

When I came out I felt it was 50/50

Nice experience, Enjoy it, They are nice people.

[MaxReheat]

r20

You're going to think 'picky old b....d' but if the 'gashness' of your post is any reflection of your performance in front of the BACX interview panel then you are doomed to failure. As far as I know this website has not yet formally adopted 'text-speak' as its primary form of written English. I don't think there was anything wrong with your reply to the question on SOPs - most company ops manuals give crew a get out to diverge from SOPs if aircraft safety is compromised.

An outfit like BACX is looking for a well turned-out, reasonably intelligent individual who is capable of conducting a coherent conversation and would probably coexist amicably with his/her colleagues - so cross the Ts and dot the Is. Don't be 'gash'. :ok:

[Troy McClure]

Q's - would u go against SOP's.

Answer is always :

"Only if we felt that following the SOP might endanger the crew or passengers"

Many interviewers will raise their eyebrows and try to persuade you to say otherwise, but stick to your guns. The above is the correct answer.

So R20, if you didn't get through, that wasn't the reason.

[eghi r20]

Ok,Yep… I get it.

Never post anything in a hurry. Always use spell check and do a good old read through before you submit.

A nice day all the same……..

Good luck all.
:D

[v12merlin]

Just wondering how deep the holding pool is and how long people have been waiting for their start dates. I myself have been in for a month or so now, any info?
Merlin.

[CaptYanknBank]

Hello.
I simmed in Nov.
I believe the last intake for the March Dash8 course included people who simmed up to about 15Oct.
Cheers,
CY&B :ok:

[v12merlin]

Just thought I'd bring this one back to the top. If you're in the pool please stick a post on the thread.
Cheers.

[SpiralStability]

I did my sim check on 17th Dec, and am told that there are six in front of me.

[six-sixty]

Hi, simmed late Jan and was told earliest course would be June if they ran one per month. Means there's at least 18 ahead of me.

[ROSCO328]

Hi all,
Entered pool 1st week in dec but no clue where I am in the que.

[Box the Tug]

Hi all
I did the sim check on December the 1st. I spoke to HR a fortnight later and was told that there were " at least 30 " in the pool for all the fleets, and that they did not know whereabouts i was in the pool.
Regards
BTT

[Troy McClure]

V12, 660, Rosco, Box - check your PMs.

[darkbarly]

Simmed 2 dec, waiting patiently in the pool with my arm bands on, seems to be quite a long float....

[Mr Wonka]

Yes a very long wait !!!

[Han 1st Solo]

Got in today, expecting a four to five month wait from the length of time everybody else is waiting. It will hopefully be worth it though. :D :D :D

[YYZ_Instructor]

I'm still waiting for interview! :{

[Troy McClure]

Another 3 called yesterday for a Dash course starting April 3rd.

I must be near the top of the pool now, surely. Simmed October.

[Max Drift]

Hi all

Just thought I would throw my hat into the ring and try to get a rough idea of how many are in the BA Connect holding pool and when you got the notification letter that you had been successful and were being placed in the pool?

As for me, interviewed in February, simmed last week, letter notifying me I was in the holding pool received this week (I know I'm in for a long wait, just trying to make a very rough estimate as to how long we might all be waiting).

Cheers

P.S. FI, 650hrs tt

[timjimreed]

Max Drift..
How many days after sim did you get the letter?
I'm still waiting and worrying!
Cheers

[Cutoff]

Simmed on a Sunday, letter on the following Weds.

[Max Drift]

Hi

I also simmed on the Sunday, had a letter by Tuesday. However, a mate of mine who was also successful simmed on a sunday (month or so before me) and didn't get a letter until the following Monday. Guess it depends how busy they are and to be fair they do tell you that it can take upto two weeks before you hear.

Good luck.

[GFYA]

Max Drift,

well done! Glad you've been successful, you must be relieved. I can't be an authority on the situation, however a friend of mine had to wait seven months for his start date with BACX/Connect following successful completion of the sim ride. These things do change so rapidly and unpredictably though. I'm in a similar situation to yourself but with a different employer.

Hope you get yourself on a TR course soon!

GFYA

[Troy McClure]

Simmed last October, still waiting.

[dynamite dean]

hi chaps just wondered how you guys prepare for the sim ride presumably in a EMB145 (?) how do you wizz kids manage it? Just wondering best of luck to all. DD:confused:

[ROSCO328]

Would be great if it where the Emb 145 as its the same layout as what im on just now, but no someone in their wisdom decided it should be the Bac1-11 !! Thank god for Efis.

[Troy McClure]

Try a 737-200 sim - not so different from a BAC1-11. Practice lots of CRM too - that's more important than handling, within reason of course.

[GFYA]

There's also the 727 sim at Bournemouth to consider. I think the company still have a BAC1-11 sim although I'm not sure if it's in use anymore. Still useful to see where all the switches and whistles are located.

[BugSpeed]

Guys and Girls,

First of all congrats to all of you as geting into the hold pool is no mean task!

BAC 1-11 Sim

I am reliably informed by our training department that we use this sim as it provides those pilots without glass cockpit/FD time a chance to have a fair stab at things without the inherent problems that can arise from switching straight from dials to speed and altitude tapes without correct training. The vast majority of those people passing the selection are mighty Dash 8 bound (certainly for the first 10 - 15 months) and guess what: semi EFIS with a V-bar flight director; almost the same as the 1-11 (well! the FD shape is anyway!). The other bonus of this sim is it handles really nicely: it does what you are expecting and won't catch you out (too badly) as long as your scan is up to speed.

I found that knowing the position of switches e.t.c was largely irrelevant as YOU ARE NOT BEING TESTED ON TYPE KNOWLEDGE. You are being tested on your ability to fly the profile they send to you a few weeks in advance.

Fly left or right seat, whatever you feel most comfortable with. There are no bonus points from flying RHS if you aren't used to it just because you are applying for an F/O position.

If you have never used a V-Bar before, use the Mooney IFR aircraft in FS2002/4 and practice some routes you know as this replicates the sim reasonably welland will get you anticipating correctly. Failing that you could always pay £30 for a 1-11 add on (perhaps).

CRM

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING for someone sub 500hrs with no previous commercial experience. From what I gather, most people make it or break it on this point. We are a high sector day/max duty hour company so your people skills have to be tip top. An important point to note is these skills will be developed by the company; if they think they can be based on sim performance (i.e. gleaming flight, almost reasonable CRM that could improve with training).

Make sure you bring your sense of humour with you as it will get you out of some pretty sticky situations!

BREIFINGS

To assist you with the CRM part, follow a standardised briefing from whichever school you have come from. They are probably all of a similar format (top right to left, MSA, top down view, lateral view, etc) just so long as it flows LOGICALLY. Ask questions to the person in the other seat such as "What do you make the MSA" or "What is the inbound course" and on the line we generally get the PNF to run through the Missed Approach. Keep it interactive is the key: it works on the line.

THE POOL

I'm afraid I don't know the exact state of play. What I can say is that certainly at BHX we are getting guys from the -8 onto the 145 at the moment on a monthly basis (4 or 5 usually) which means they are taking guys out of the pool to replace them. If you are lucky you'll get straight onto the 145, however, you will miss out on a lot of fun with the Dash! (I miss it.......kind of like your first real girlfriend: you'll never forget her)


Guys and Girls, I hope this has been of some use for you all. I'm not a line trainer or a manager, I'm just a bloke who enjoys flying the line and I can remember what it was like!!!!

BS

[Lee Frost]

Hello,


Does anyone know when BA connect intend to start recruitment again?



LF

[ROSCO328]

Not sure. What I can tell you is there are over 16 people in the pool at the moment and there are still lots of people from last recruitment drive still waiting on interviews.Very very slow process.:ok:

[Lee Frost]

Thanks ROSCO

[shaun ryder]

Thats an understatement!! 6 months waiting for a response to my email confirmation for an interview. I have just been chatting to a colleague who said that there is a rumour that if you have'nt been interviewed, you will have to re-apply as BA Connect are no longer interviewing from the original batch from the last recruitment? I do hope not, like many I have been on standby for the ever elusive interview for a long time now. Such a let down if true.

Anyone else heard this rumour??

[ROSCO328]

I have heard this aswell but like you say it could just be a rumour.:\

[no sponsor]

Yes, i've heard that too. If you don't have 50 hrs in the last 12 months, i.e. from today, not when you applied, then they'll throw out your application too. ;)

[hardcase]

its not just a rumour i'm afraid....i have 20-30 in front of me for interview....and if i am not called before the online application reopens, i have to reapply...gutted is not the word :yuk: , and i got the email saying, you will be called for interview, etc on the 29th Sept. i got my info from a very reliable source and i was recommended by one of their Captains.
how their system works is beyond me :{

[shaun ryder]

Just a quick question Hardcase, how do you know that you have 20 - 30 in front of you? Have you been in touch with the HR dept?

[MrMutra]

Understandable that your frustrated, waiting and waiting. Still so many pilots out of work especially those with low hours, think they can choose to do what they wish.

Think of the numbers in the holding pool, they have been waiting for a course date for over 8 months, so why rush to put more through the interviews and sim rides when there is a sizable pool.

MrM

[stanlystansted]

Hey Shaun Ryder,

I am in the same boat as you. E-mail on 29th september and nothing since. Like you I have also been recommended (seems to be more of a hinderance than a help). I am also wondering whether to re-apply when the application re-opens. There are so many rumours on this - in case of doubt re-apply. It seems unfair though , doesn't it?! Why be thrown back into the selection pool, having had a promise of an interview already... :{

[wingbar]

My interview letter was the 28th of September and I am none the wiser.

[silverknapper]

It is rough. Especially for those who aren't flying at the moment.
At the risk of being yelled at I suppose look at it from their point of view. A lot changes in 6 months and all those who aren't flying are sitting becoming uncurrent, which in turn increases their training costs. Every week fresh, current fATPL holders appear on the market. The competition is tough. I guess the moral is keep current - easier said than done I know.

[ph81ds]

Same for me, email 28th September, still no news.

[crazy gal]

I spoke to the lady in HR about 2 weeks ago.

I told her that i received email in Sept etc... and just to let her know that my situation has changed I.E a FI now etc.... She was saying that when we re-open the online application again you can re-apply.

So I'm assuming that they have finished their recruitment for now and just gotta wait till they re-open!!

Crazy Gal x

[BIGBAD]

As far as I am aware we are constantly recruiting for the Dash and the 145

[Mr Wonka]

I hope they do keep recruiting and take on many low houred pilots. Will be good news for many.

:)

[bigjarv]

Yay! I made it through the sim check and landed straight in the hold pool!! Very very happy! Makes all the preperation and hanging around worthwhile!!
Just goes to show it is possible. To all those looking for a job just keep banging away and eventually you will get through. Persistance, preperation and determination seem to be the keys!
I'm sure this has been covered before but couldn't find anything on a search. Does anyone have any idea how big the hold pool is and how long I can expect to be in it? Would be very interested to hear from anyone who has already done the hold pool thing and got in to see how long they waited, AND from anyone who is currently in the pool and what date they simmed? Would at least give some indication as to what to expect.
So until then I'm just gonna splash around in this big ol pool feeling just a teeny tiny bit smug!!!! :ok:

[Toastal]

Well done mate, that 1-11 sim isn't the easiest thing to master!!! However, I wouldn't get your hopes up old boy. There are many of us here, some of whom have been drowning since Oct 2005!! Numerous Dash courses have been cancelled and there is talk of there only being 2 courses accomodating 8 F/O's MAX for the rest of the year. I simmed a several months ago and have been told i'm about 20ish, so lord knows what the score is.

On the flip side, a week is a looong time in aviation :\

[darkbarly]

Well done on getting in, there are many who were not successful. The pool is not that big but the problem is there are few vacancies arising just now. There is a steady trickle and friends of mine have been called to replace these, so we are all slowly moving up to the top.

Keep flying, you are required to keep your IR current(ME/IR is required for the issue of an MPL on a multi crew type) and you need to keep 50 hours in a rolling 12 months in the bank.

Others I know have had offers whilst in the pool with other airlines so this also helps to shorten the wait.

Like Toastal, I simmed in Dec 05 so we are both close to the top at this stage. Hard to say how many in the pool exactly.

I expect you are aware that jet courses are prioritised for dash FOs above integrated entrants, so if you are low houred modular it will be the dash first.

The waiting is a killer but speaking to those called in they all grin like cheshire cats so it must be worth it!!!:E

[redflyer]

I know of 7 current dash f/o's starting EMB145 or 146 courses in the next couple of months. 1 course in May and the other in June.

New captains are being trained on the dash, so their f/o spaces from the jets are on offer to the more senior f/o's on the Dash. Senior being around 10-12 months.

[BIGBAD]

I wouldn't worry about being in the hold pool for too long, we have pilots leaving everyday - and cannot replace them quickly enough. The only limitation is how quickly replacement can be trained.

At the same time don't sit on your laurels waiting for a call, keep plugging away with other companies - there are lots of jobs to be had at the moment.......:p

[Troy McClure]

If a week's a long time in aviation, how long is 6 months? Feels like a bloody lifetime.....

Come on BACON, let's have a July course. Please.

[bigjarv]

I've just been told not to expect to get on a course till next year and there are 25-30 people in the hold pool for the DHC8!!!! Blimey!!! I'm gonna be totally shrivelled and prune like by then!! Not to mention still very very very broke!
Thanks for all the responses and advice etc. All very welcome! Must feel great to know you are getting near the front of the Q. I know you shouldn't wish your life away but if only I had a fast forward button........... ;)

[ROSCO328]

Did that info about courses come from Connect ops?

[MrMutra]

Heard the rumour that those in the holding pool are being told to apply to other airlines. So for those of you in the hold pool is this true ?

If it is then i think the on line application will not be opening any time soon.


:bored:

[fade to grey]

Don't want to rain on your parade,but is there any point swimming with this lot ? -shut down in two years if not profitable,
Surely its like getting a first job on the titanic ?

[darkbarly]

grey, well I laughed....

1. Can you name the last Fully owned subsidiary of the mothership that was shut down? From personal experience, every part of BA is under constant threat of closure, but like all the other's, they havent gulped yet.

2. Dont upset us little fish in the pool, some of us would rather get to captain before were old enough to qualify for a cruise on a titanic, unlike most BA mainline SFO's

3. How long is a week in aviation...well anything has to be shorter than a week in the hold pool:{

[shaun ryder]

Some of us out here are genuine pilots, we are trying our hardest to obtain a right seat position with an airline. We work hard, 250 hours or 1000 hours, all in the same boat!!

Sometimes you get the odd airline pilot who takes the :mad: out of us wannabees! I am sure that you guys were there once.

Try and remember that chaps, we will be there with you one day.

A pilot waiting for an interview!

[fade to grey]

Dark,
I'm not being funny -do you think walsh is playing games ?
With cost savings of 400 million being looked at,do you really think he will continue to view yearly losses of 30 million quid in a favourable light ?
You can rebrand and offer some lower fares (nowhere near locos) but ultimately the cost base is too high,

All I am saying is great,you are in the pool, but keep looking !

[bigjarv]

In a company the size of BA, I reckon 30 million pounds can appear or dissapear in the swash of an accountants pen. Also hope that Bacon are making some effort to cut their costs and improve their sales. They do provide an excellent service that is in a different market to the lo co's. Just got to wait and see if it's a big enough and robust market for Bacon to make a success of. Willies comments are certainly a motivator for all in the airline to make an effort!

We will see but I refuse to feel down about having a job in the bank!! Agree thou! It would be prudent to continue looking elsewhere.

[XRJ]

Don't worry guys. Loads of people are leaving/have left BA Connect. As well as internal moves from Dash's to EMBs. So hang on in there. I'm sure a course isn't too far away. The bad news for the guy that wanted a command there.....they're like hen's teeth! Skippers are clinging on (quite rightly) to their final salary pension so they won't move on! Good luck guys. It's a fantastic first job.

[MrMutra]

XRJ

Thanks for the post, are most F/O's leaving because of the lack of commands ? or just fed up and :mad: off with management ?

MrM

[BIGBAD]

Most guys are leaving because the bouyant job market means there are lots of good opportunities opening up for guys with even the most basic commercial experience.

Over the last couple of years the fleets have continued to shrink , meaning fewer command opportunities - even F/O's who have 5/6 years seniority are starting to leave. With no openings likely for us lower down the seniority list, working more hours per year, pay increase deals not looking great and just the general managment attitude at the moment doesn't mean it's a long term option.

The company is turning into a training airline, with guys getting some experience and more on.

Don't get me wrong, it's not all doom and gloom - there's a good bunch of people to work with, the jungle jet (with all it's faults) is modern and challenging to fly !! varied route network at the bigger bases, bigger bases are pretty stable now, fantastic scheduling agreement, stacks of overtime (if that floats your boat!), good staff travel perks with mainlaine etc

- it's horses for courses :=

[moaty]

Hi Guys
Just wondering if anyone out there who was in the Interview Holding Pool, is still awaiting an interview, with City Express, or do we need to start reapplying?

[speedrestriction]

Should that read Connect ?:8

sr

[hardcase]

am still waiting for interview, there are 20 or so ahead of me. i have also been told that if the on-line application opens before we are called, we have to fill it in again. :ugh:

[Troy McClure]

At least 20 in the hold pool (by which I mean interviewed, simmed and passed selection), some waiting since last October and little prospect of a start date in the next couple of months.

I wouldn't pin too many hopes on an interview any time soon.

[ROSCO328]

Hi all,

Just to confirm what's being said. I've bin in the pool for 6 months now and I can tell you this company does not have a clue! Information changes at the drop of a hat and even then it's up to you to call and find out what is going on! Had one email in that six months but never any info given. Poor show!!

I'm very lucky I already have a job but most of the others don't so you can only imagine what they are going through by Connect constantly hanging the carrot.:ugh: :=

[hardcase]

frustrating is not the word :ugh: especially when they need more pilots
hardcase

[Troy McClure]

Is it an omen that pprune has recently introduced the 'Ugh' (banging head against wall) smilie? It already seems to have superseded the 'Thumb'...

A reflection on these times? At least in the old days there were no jobs and everyone knew that, now there are hundreds of jobs but no recruitment due to lack of training crew. That seems to be Bacon's primary problem at the moment, but they won't admit it.

:ugh:

[hardcase]

its when we see a smilie with a gun to his head we should start worrying....

:ok:

[wasntme]

Know of courses running in July and November on the Dash.

On line application form opening very soon.;)

[ROSCO328]

BUT WHY???

[Troy McClure]

And if there's a course in July, why am I not on it. With Rosco here, and Mr Wonka and CaptYanknBank. We've all been told we're at the top of the list. Come on BACON, lets get things moving.

:ok: :ok: :ok: (Just redressing the balance a bit. Always the optimist...)

[BIGBAD]

MOATY
is still awaiting an interview, with City Express, or do we need to start reapplying?

yup it probably has been such a long wait that we've changed name to BA-Connect
ROSCO328
this company does not have a clue!
Poor show!!

If this is how you feel, you obviously wouldn't want to work for such a company so why don't you ask to be taken out of the hold pool ??

Troy McClure
no recruitment due to lack of training crew.
All trainers here are working their socks of and like every airline training is limited to how many people you can get through the sim + line training at one time. There is mega recruitment going on here as more experienced chaps are moving on and have to be replaced. BACON is not unlike other airlines in that we are geared up for crews to fly the line, so when a boom comes along it's difficult to take up the slack. Don't forget that in the last few years there has not been so much turn over in the industry so airlines don't need to pay extra for line + sim trainers when they are not required.
If your in the pool , well done, but don't hang around doing nothing keep applying for other jobs - you may even get something better than BACON (some would say that ain't hard !!)........

[ROSCO328]

BIGBAD

It's called keeping your options open!! :D

[wasntme]

Rosco328, if you already have an airline job I do wonder why you are so pi:mad: sed off with BA connect.

To all waiting, BA connect do seem to take ther time, however once you're in the T&c's are one of the best in the industry. I can't imagine you could beat the staff travel.

pm's welcome

[scroggs]

Rosco328, if you already have an airline job, what are you doing in this forum?

Scroggs

[ROSCO328]

"We of course welcome contributions from pilots who are here with the intention of informing and helping our wannabes".

Didn't think I was breaking any rules Scroggs dear chap.

[scroggs]

Rosco, you appear to be here to gain rather than to offer information. While there is nothing to stop you reading this or any thread on Wannabes - and you are very welcome to do so - Terms and Endearment is the appropriate forum for you to engage in discussions about changing, rather than gaining, employment.

Scroggs

[License to Fly]

latest rumours from a mate of mine who works at BACON is that the next DASH 8 course is not until Sept ... but being the airline industry this could change!!

[CaptYanknBank]

I hope it does change.....
Jul/Aug would be spot on......Sep seems so far away.....

[MrMutra]

LTF

To true that the airline industry changes so quickly. My good friend in the BACON hold pool, was told last week by flight ops, not to expect to be on a dash 8 course until early 2007 ! :eek:

So good news for all of you in the hold pool if dash 8 course now around sept.

MrM

[CaptYanknBank]

MM,

Depends on where in the pool your friend is. Some of the poolers have been there since Oct/Nov05. A lot of people joined the pool in Nov/Dec05.

Cheers

CY&B

[Troy McClure]

If it's looking like next year for me and CY&B here, I'll order one of Hardcase's proposed 'Gun to head' smilies now.....

In the meantime, this will have to do:


http://www.chat-avenue.com/forums/images/smilies/guns.gif http://www.chat-avenue.com/forums/images/smilies/banghead.gif

Troy.

[shaun ryder]

Anyway........
Does anyone know if im still gonna get my interview? :confused:
:)

[RAMPGUY]

Or mine!!!:{

[hardcase]

come on guys lets be positive, i know its taking a while but i am still hopeful that i will get that call.

:ok:

[darkbarly]

Notice that flight int. is carrying an advert for a ground instructor at Manchester this week. Wonder if this vacant position accounts for some of the delay in running type courses to empty the pool...

[spanner the cat]

We keep being told that all the bases are crewed to the required levels with all people posted to where they should be. I think there is a little bit of spare to cover leavers, etc. I also hear that things have slackened off with courses.

It has to be said that, thus far, there don't seem to be the same number of pilots looking to get out as last year - or rather those that were going have, by and large, gone.

Good luck to all applying. Despite what you read here with the negative posts there is a lot to be said for the company itself, particularly the scheduling agreement. The flying is good, plenty of sectors. I just wish we knew what the big picture was.....:confused: :ouch: :confused:

[hold5]

It's time to revive this little number.
There will be a lucky few getting the call soon. 6 new fo's on the next dash 8 course.
Who ever's next expect a call soon.
August course I expect.
Don't you just love it:p

Just noticed this thread has had over 10,000 views, I guess alot of interest, but my degree in stating the obvious hasn't really helped. But then again does any degree. No argument intended. Then again I don't have a degree or A levels and I'm working for them. I must have a shining personality.

I was a wanabee a little over a year ago and I wish everyone all the best.

best of luck.

[Mr Wonka]

Hold 5


You sound very confident !

There will be a lucky few getting the call soon. 6 new fo's on the next dash 8 course.
Who ever's next expect a call soon.

Is this a lucky guess ?

I think maybe

Mr W

[MrMutra]

I hope some of you get that call soon, then everyone slowly moves on up the list.

Good luck to ya ! :ok:

[hold5]

Hold 5
You sound very confident !
Is this a lucky guess ?
I think maybe
Mr W
We'll see. I wouldn't write on this forum and get peoples hopes up if I thought the info was duff

[MrMutra]

So has anyone had this " Call " hold 5 wrote about ? or is it duff info ??

Hope not duff info ! on account that it means the hold pool is emptying and some of us might get that chance to get an interview....:)

MrM

[CaptYanknBank]

No.......:{

[shaun ryder]

Guys, its off I think... Get on with looking for other jobs!!!!

[Mr Wonka]

Originally Posted by hold5

We'll see. I wouldn't write on this forum and get peoples hopes up if I thought the info was duff

What a shame :hmm: !!! duff info after all by the sounds of it.... :ugh:

Oh well maybe things might change in the future, so chin up everyone and best of luck with the job search. :)

Mr W

[FlyUK]

For those who think new applicant type rating training has slowed, it most definately hasn't. Two of my friends started 145 TR's two weeks ago. They just can't train people quick enough.

How is it the saying goes??

"Good things come to those who wait!" :ok:

.....Just in aviation you have to wait a bit longer. :oh:

[EGCC4284]

I heard from a very reliable source that they were interviewing again last week. Tuesday I think.

[hold5]

They were interviewing pilots on Thursday.

[Han 1st Solo]

Hi all,

I've been in the holding pool since mid february, talked to flight operations today, the next dash course is in september. There are none planned at present for the rest of the year, and there are still people in the pool from november and december I was told. A long wait ahead I think for those of us currently treading water in the holding pool.

Regards,

Han. :(

[Troy McClure]

Some of us since October even.....

So September course now the favourite. There again, there were rumours of courses in May, June, July and see above for a 'definite' course in August.

We'll see...

[Mr Wonka]

Han 1st Solo,

Many still swimming since October year 2005 so i feel a long long wait ahead for others ....

'definite' course in August := we'll try to forget that one.

For some keep those licences renewed and medical and lets hope for a course asap.

Chin up, stay current and keep positive everyone :ok:

Mr Wonka

[CaptYanknBank]

Been in pool since Nov.........:eek:

Just wanted to be post 99 on da thread.....

CY&B

[Toastal]

I have just had it from a very reliable source this evening that 4 OAT Graduates are starting with BACON next month! One is going onto the 146 fleet based on Isle of Man (cause no Dash guys wanted to go there) and the other 3 start on the EMB 145. Why oh why oh why!!!!!!!!!!!:confused:

[hold5]

Some of us since October even.....

So September course now the favourite. There again, there were rumours of courses in May, June, July and see above for a 'definite' course in August.

We'll see...

There was a course in May, I've been sitting in the jump seat for a couple of the guys on their first few sectors.

I guess all you guys in the pool aren't being told the whole truth.

[MrMutra]

Originally Posted by HOLD5
I guess all you guys in the pool aren't being told the whole truth


I guess from the DUFF !!!! info you wrote, you guys in the RHS aren't being told the whole truth either.;)

I know somone from OATS cadet scheme on the next course, did'nt even go into the hold pool, they all by-passed it.

Sadly for me this means that the pool is not emptying, and of cause the on line application form isnt going to be on line any time soon.:(

Sounds like those in the hold pool are just being used, if they cant get cadets onto a course then last resort is use somone out of the pool.

MrM

[Mono del dia]

I too have been in the hold pool since Feb and have been following this thread with interest since then. I was told that there were 15-20 people ahead of me and I have had regular communication with flight operations to keep me updated. The last conversation I had with them at the beginning of June I was told that there were no planned Dash courses for the rest of the year and it was unlikely that I would be given a course/start date in 2006. There was some justification for this based on not as many people have left as they had planned for.

This is my theory on the whole situation: They had a whole load of pilots leave in 2004/2005 and they based their 2006 requirement on this. The number they predicted has obviously not been realised as there is about 30 in the hold pool and a load of people that didn't even get interviewed from their last recruitment.

The movement from the pool is based on movement through the company; Dash FO to EMB/146 FO etc. Since the re-branding seems to have been a positive one and pax yields are up it may have convinced some people to stay on just a little bit longer. There are also rumours around of new aircraft and a possible move to London, both would be good for the company. So no leavers slows down the aspirational movement through the company.

The other thing that also slows it down (and this is just a theory of mine), is that BA Connect have a contract with Oxford to take a set number of pilots per year. They have to meet some set standards (first time passes, 85% in ATPL's and a recommendation), but there are obvious economic benefits as it reduces the cost of finding pilots and maybe even Oxford are helping them out with the cost of the type rating? Who knows? Great if you have loads of leavers and pilot seats to fill quickly, but not if only normal wastage is occurring.

This is great for Oxford and BA Connect, but not great for those out there that are in the pool as it stems the natural flow of people through the company.

Unfortunately this is just economics at work and probably isn't fair to some people, but I am of the belief that those in the hold pool will get a phone call, eventually, but not anytime soon. You also must remember that you have reached a point in your aviation career where you have an attractive CV, if one company was interested in you and you had the quality to pass one selection process you can do it with others. That's my attitude anyway and until I get a phone call from them with a start date I am still looking elsewhere.

MDD

[ROSCO328]

Guys and gals

I think as harsh as it may sound everyone in the pool should just treat this as interview experience and move on. It is a shame and what a waste of money interviewing people and doing sim assessments then nothing but hey im not an accountant. Gonna send both my flight receipts down and see if I can have a refund!!lol:E

[Canada Goose]

Talking of wasting money …… some people have speculated that it might suit some of these airlines to take on people who they feel will move on after a few years. Maybe its true and maybe that's why these guys get put on the EMB 145…….since the pay scales are higher for this a/c than the Dash ! ……… Then again, I would have thought that training costs in general would far outweigh any small incremental increase in yearly salary ! Just my two penneth !

:rolleyes:

[Toastal]

Mono Double D, I totally agree with your thread. There are a few important points to be voiced here. Firstly, there is a regular stream of people leaving BACON at any given time. A lot of these people move onto Main Line after working their bond on the EMB/146. Some even do the 2 yrs on the Dash and then move across (after doing the full selection may I add). Secondly, it is true that pax loads are very much on the up, and the low cost option is working very,very well for the company. They are in need of pilots, AND WILL BE FOR THE FORESEEABLE. However, when OAT and CABAIR raise their ugly heads, the modular guys suffer. I think its outrageous the way hold pool candidates have been treated by this outfit, and despite being one of the later myself, i'm gonna look elsewhere!!

[Waka Rider]

Toastal your info about people moving into mainline maybe a bit off the mark. Myself and others had to go through the full selection with BA mainline and had to pay some of our bond off when we left BACX as it was then. I have not heard of any mainline selected people starting in BA Connect then moving across as you suggest, since just after 9/11 when some cadets came into BACX as there was no places in mainline for them. I believe they have all returned to mainline. Personally Toastal I wish you luck with trying with other operators. My and many of my friends that are on the 777 and Airbus fleets feel that our time in BACX / Brymon / BRAL was really great fun and enjoyable.

All the best

[Cutoff]

Just to clarify, the last Dash Course was April, not May, there was an EMB 145 course in May. There have been no other Dash courses since then.

[EGCC4284]

Am I reading this correctly. Is it true that if you are in the hold pool as a modular, you would be then waiting to go on to the Dash. If the time waiting is longer than a fixed period, you are then leap frogged by a OAT or Cabair cadet and are left waiting in the hold pool. Is this what true.

Sorry for spelling.

[ROSCO328]

This is correct!! I was also told this on the telephone by Bacon.:mad:

[Box the Tug]

EGCC4284
I am currently in the hold pool for the Dash ( have been since December:( )
As far as I know most of the people in the Dash hold pool are modular trained.
BA Connect takes Oxford graduates directly onto the EMB145 and has been doing for a while, they were doing it last year I know, when they were Citiexpress.
Apparently what happens is once selected they go into the Embraer hold pool. If once there they have not received a EMB course within six months they are then transferred to the top of the Dash pool!
However I have also been told that the turnover in the Embraer pool is such that this never happens.
Naturally I stand to be corrected on the above.

Regards to all the frustrated swimmers:ok:
BTT

[Mono del dia]

As far as I have been told by BA Connect you are placed in the Dash hold pool based on your experience i.e. no multi-crew time and not on wether you have completed either integrated or modular training. I am in the pool and completed an integrated course in '03

The Oxford guys are placed directly onto the EMB bypassing the Dash all together if they meet certain criteria, one of which is completion of their integrated course within the last 6 months.

Yes this sounds crazy as why is the 200HR integrated student deemed more capable to convert and fly a more complex and quicker aircraft than those that have maybe over 1000HRS of either instructing, air taxi or charter work?

MDD

[shaun ryder]

A follow up to the last post.

How is it that a graduate of integrated background can leapfrog their way into these positions with airlines? I understand that organisations recruit from a large pool of experience. Are they better than modular trained? (nothing against anyone who has an integrated background by the way)

Why is it that pilots who, you rightly say may have 1000+ hours instructing and SP/IFR time under their belt can not be recruited straight on to the jets?

I am merely an observer on this thread now, but I cant help but scratch my head sometimes, what is going on here?! I do know of people who have found a loophole, but it makes you wonder sometimes whether or not you are a valuable commodity!

Also, why have a hold pool that is full of pilots who are not flying and therefore not current?

This post is neither aimed at anyone or any organisation in particular, it is merely, as stated, an observation on the current climate and rumours that circulate.

[Troy McClure]

I'm flying, I'm current, and so are many others in the pool.

[darkbarly]

yup,

In the pool and current, if only at low altitude and steeply banked to the left....though IT IS a :mad: to have integrated leap frog on to the jets.

[EGCC4284]

though IT IS a ? to have integrated leap frog on to the jets.

I think its leap frog you onto the Dash after 6 months waiting for the jet, please correct me if I am wrong anyone.

After my conversation at the last BALPA Conference with CP regarding where you would be based and how he said its all done fairly and squarely, I cannot believe that these rumours about OAT or the likes leap frogging Modular guys onto the Dash after waiting 6 months for a Barbie Jet.

I have a friend down south who has sold his home and is now living in digs waiting to start for BA Connect. He a mod and has been in the hold since I think Oct 2005. Please, please tell me these rumours are not true.

[ROSCO328]

Like I said earlier, I was told this by Ba Connect directly over the phone! Feel sorry for your mate as I think the chances of being called on by this company are slim to none unless your from OAT and have a whole 200hrs!:ugh: Goodluck to him though :)

[EGCC4284]

Are ROSCO328 my friend, any engine failures during a go around yet. I've practiced for mine already.

I have to laugh about it now. It was a good day out in all.

[six-sixty]

I am afraid it is true - even within a single s*dding hold pool there is a caste system. I also heard direct from the horses mouth, but only in answer to my direct question "is it possible for my place in the pool to go DOWN?" and after a long uncomfortable pause at the other end...

If I'd have known that this was the deal before I went for the sim etc?? ...wouldn't have made a jot of difference, lets face it I am desperate for that job like we all are. Still it's just not cricket is it?

SS

[jaarrgh]

Well, to add to your theme of oxford/jerez jumping the queue...
If you do get into this company then you continue to be leap-frogged by these cadets into jet (including RJ fleet) positions whilst you sit there in your dash8. It is a constant cause of resentment. Just in case the inevitable reply is coming... yes, yes blah, blah, I am grateful to have a job etc and we would all be grateful to watch our progress blocked wouldn't we!!

[Toastal]

Let me say one more thing on this thread regarding OAT/CABAIR bods and BACON. It is DEFINITELY the case that these low hour students are walking in the door onto jets with the company. As if that isn't bad enough for modular guys/gals, they are DEFINITELY by-passing all those in the Dash 8 hold-pool, and will infact, superceed them if needs be. Anyone who says otherwise doesn't have a clue about what is going on at Didsbury.

So come on, lets hear from some of you OAT graduates fresh out of the wrapper on the 145/146!!:oh:

[angelorange]

New BA Connect ad in Flight very soon - website to reopen in next few months.

[Troy McClure]

As long as they empty the pool first, they can advertise all they like. 8 months and counting for me now....

[moggiee]

Low hours for pilots entering a jet or turboprop fleet is not a problem - as long as your training sytem is robust enough to deal with the relative lack of experience.

Having spent a number of years providing JOC training for BA sponsored cadet pilots I can tell you that a GOOD bridge training course (not an MCC - something longer and more involved) will go a very long way towards preparing someone for a jet FO job. A good type rating organistaion will then train the pilots to a higher standard than that which is required to pass the TR. Add on QUALITY line training and you are well away.

BA (mainline) have never had a problem assimilating 200 hours CEPs onto their jet fleets because they have all the above in place. Most get through the TR in minimum hours and the line training in somewhere close to minimum sectors. The money spent on JOC training is saved many times over in reduced training costs at a later stage. As for BA Connect, I have no direct experience.

However, I can say that those airlines that try to do it on the cheap (trying to turn a 20hour MCC into a JOC) get less impressive results. I gather that one LO-CO carrier is reported to unhappy with the CTC AQC graduates - well, what do they expect after a 20 hour course? I don't blame CTC in the slightest - it's the airlines trying to do it on the cheap.

The moral, as far as I am concerned is: DON'T CUT CORNERS. Good quality training is not cheap - but the rewards are worth the expense.

[hold5]

I'd like to apologise for the post which stated that people were going to get called. I didn't think the company had lowered themselves to having a hold pool and then go the way the they seem to be going.

I really thought that the hold pool was the next to get called.

[Han 1st Solo]

Hi all,

After reading the terms & endearment thread on BACon things are looking very bleak at present. Obviously much of what is said is conjecture but taking a worst case senario all of us in the holding pool are screwed. Seems like we are all back to square one again. Anyway morbid rant over i'm pretty f***ed off with work at present as well so that explains the tantrum, chin up to all treading water and lets hope for the best, ie everyone leaves in droves & the pool is emptied in weeks, hears hoping!

Regards,

Han. :ugh: :bored: :\ :zzz: :uhoh: :confused: :yuk: :( :* :{ anyway who wants to work for a company who circumvents the holding pool.!!!!!! me!

[GUARD]

Things could be worse comrades.

I work for a regional airline on the east coast of Australia where we have 20 Dash 8 100/200/300 aircraft. I have been an F/O for 4 years with no command in sight. Most guys here wait 5-8 years just for a command. We are all ' modular ' and our namesake airline accross the border in Queensland just received 4 Dash 8 400 aircraft. We are being teases that we might get some as well ( if we sign a crap EBA ).

Furthermore, we are not looked upon for entry into Qantas mainline due to the fact that they would have to train someone to replace us and likewise very lucky to get accross to Jetstar even though they are gagging for pilots, all because we are in the same group.

I personally have 6000 hours total and 5000 multi with 3000 turbine multi-crew with no foreseeable opportunity of moving onto jets.

Please be patient because once you get in at least you have some direction and promotional opportunities available. I also taught Qantas cadets their IR and MCC and still can't get in myself.

It's a character building industry. I still love it but you probably wouldn't accept it anywhere else.

Keep calling them and hopefully the squeeky wheel will get the oil.:ok:

[MrMutra]

There was a rumour about, that the on-line application form would reopen soon. With the news on other threads can't think this will happen now, :confused: but you can never tell.

Has anyone heard anymore news regarding the size of the hold pool ? :confused:

Cheers

MrM

[EGCC4284]

Would anyone like to confirm whether the Dash 8 courses for 2006 have been put on hold??????????????

[scroggs]

Those of you considering BACon might wish to read this (http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?t=235708) thread.

Scroggs

[V2andSOME]

Has anyone heard or know if a Dash8 August course is happening,.....anyone anyone...:cool:

Sponsored by Speedo,Oneill,Rip Curl,Fat Tuna,C&A Hold POOL attire.....

[MrMutra]

Well i spoke to a crew member this morning, told that there is no course for August , there is a course for September but no one from the pool is on the course. They are putting about 8 cadets straight from flight school onto said course.

Not sure how accurate this is, but for me I'm waiting for the on line app form to re open. I would be well pi:mad: ed off I was floating in the hold pool and this was the case ! :eek: .

MrM

[six-sixty]

"They are putting about 8 cadets straight from flight school onto said course."

and they can't even be bothered to tell us poor sods in the hold pool that they've no intention of ever offering us a place cos of some grubby little stitch-up between them and the integrated schools?

Shame on them.

[scroggs]

If you read the thread I linked to only a couple of posts above, you - like me - may develop some doubts about the future of BACon. I would strongly advise those of you in the hold pool to continue your job search. While I may well be wrong, it would appear that not everything is rosy in the BACon garden. Read that thread.

Scroggs

[six-sixty]

of course but the fact is though even if I knew 100% that they were imploding in 6 months I'd still join them for the type rating and whatever multi crew hours I could get my ratty claws into before they sank. Bet I'd not be alone either.

I know they don't "owe" anyone a job but surely the people who jumped through their hoops are at least owed a bit of honesty about this change in policy which effectively blows any chance we had out of the water?

Either they can't be bothered, or they're just being very mean spirited. Anyway fingers x'd for the guys/gals already working there.

[wigwag]

Six-Sixty

I'm with you on this.

Correct, they don't owe any of you in the pool a job, but there is the moral aspect to this, after getting you to jump through hoops, interviews, group tasks, sim assesments, taking time off from work, paying for your own transport to the assesments etc, a level playing field would, NAH should, be the least to expect. It would be nice if the union like BALPA would help you out on this.

So keep looking elsewhere ! Look where exactly ? Unless your loaded and have the money to type rate or your a cadet with a " recommendation " , there is nothing. :ugh:

Many aircrafts being bought on order but where is the recruitment ?

[Box the Tug]

Six sixty

No you would not have been alone, I would have been there with you, ratty claws outstretched.
I am very very dissapointed about the whole thing.:(

Regards BTT

[ToneTheWone]

So I take it that my promised interview is unlikely to happen then??

Only joking - I gave up hope months ago.

It is a poor show, verging on a disgrace how BACon have given people hope, then not even having the good manners to keep them informed of what's happening. It's hard enough looking for a job and keeping your spirits up as it is. Getting your hopes up and then having them dashed with no tought or consideration is cruel.

How would the managment like it if you were due to start a type-rating course and just didn't turn up, and not even phone them to explain why.

TonetheWone:ok:

[G-NoJOB]

Any Potential Employers Want a Slice of the BACon Hold Pool?
In light of the latest developments, this former swimmer is applying renewed efforts to find any alternative opportunities. Immediate availability and meets all hold pool requirements with regard to currency, IR and medical.
Alright, an absurdly long shot for sure, but; nothing ventured, nothing gained and having completed this selection process would suggest that we might have something to offer elsewhere.
Best of luck to all those others in the ‘hold pool that never was’. It’s been a costly and frustrating exercise, one to just put down to experience and move on it would now appear.
G-NoJOB

[CaptYanknBank]

Have a mate who will be on the Sep course.
He is an EMB-145 F/O training as Capt of Dash8.
Apparently there will be one outsider on the course.:{
Not sure if Pooler or Intergrated. :ugh:

Also,

Fresh off the press. WW quoted from ATW.
<<"while BA Connect has adopted an LCC model, it is not a low-cost carrier: "I would be fooling myself saying it is low cost, but it is competing in a low-fares environment." He has declared that the segment must return to profitability in the year ending March 31, 2008.>>

[Pizzaro]

Just been told one dash returning to lessor.

[CaptYanknBank]

Yeap,
Heard from mate who is an F/O.
One going back, either went end of Jul or goes end Aug.
In his words, was mainly used as a spare anyway but now got nuthin to fall
back on in event of problem. Also in his words, takes a lot of TLC to keep these things in the air....:{

[CaptYanknBank]

Heard a couple of rumours the hold pool is being dissolved......:{

[Canada Goose]

I take it from your tears that you mean the pool is being abolished as opposed to people being pulled out from it and put on TR's !!??

[Mr Wonka]

The only people being put onto TR courses, are 200 hour Cadets, told that they are cheaper and still in the learning mode. Pity that there is no-one to fight our corner against this.

I have a chance of job elsewhere, shame about it though, 12 months of swimming after jumping through lots of hoops and nothing to show for it. I guess its back to square 1 for everyone except oxford and cabair cadets that is.

I'm sure our time will come. Best of luck to all swimmers :ok:

Mr Wonka

[six-sixty]

Heard a couple of rumours the hold pool is being dissolved......:{

No way. That won't have happened. The nice, approachable people at Connect have kept us regularly informed every step of the way. No way they'd do anything like that without letting all concerned know. Honestly, you've no faith in people!

[Troy McClure]

True. They must have contacted me on average once every 9 months. The last time being 9 months ago to say I was in the pool.

[Mr Wonka]

:D Very funny Six Sixty :D Very sarcastic

Like Troy, I received a letter 12 months ago saying your in the pool, then nothing.

What a wonderful group of people in recruitment department of BACon, However I think if your from CABAIR OR OXfORD you'll think there the best :ok: right ?

Mr W

[Canada Goose]

Commiserations to all who were in the pool and well done to those who squeezed in. I was pretty gutted that the interview I was notified to expect never happened. However, in hindsight, apart from getting the experience of going through the recruitment process, I'm somewhat relieved it never happened. That is to say, taking time off work to attend, and assuming a successful interview then trying to get some jet sim time in at great personal expense. I have to say, I've never come across an industry that treats highly trained and professional people in such a shoddy manner !!

[BritishGuy]

Would anyone have the skinny on this? Would like to know what the first & second year pay at BA Connect is on the ERJ-145. Just curious to know what the going rate is for an f/o on this a/c in the UK.

[P1 Forever]

Hi BritishGuy,

If low hour pilot basic is £24,000 for 2 years then you are moved on to the direct entry pilot scale which starts at around £35,000.

P1.

[MrMutra]

Wouldnt worry about pay, getting a job with BACON seems to be a problem for many on here. The holding pool is being done away with from what ive heard.

But if you have a job well done enjoy :)

[redflyer]

I'm suprised that the lucky few who are on the Dash course at the end of October haven't posted here yet.

[endofeng]

Maybe the new guys flying the dash are straight out of Cabair.....

Royal Brunia Airways-seconded to BACON for 2 years....good eh!


----------------
endofeng:ok:

[redflyer]

I know 2 guys personally who are out of the hold pool. Neither are Cabair.

Dash hold pool is being used again.

[Troy McClure]

Shame those who've been waiting the longest haven't had the call though....

[wigwag]

So how many have got out of the pool then ??

:confused:

[Thumperdown]

Some answers to your questions!
There are 2 pools in operation (and have not/will not close).
A jet pool and a TP pool.
Jet pool entry via completion of a full approved course and a recommendation from the approved school. This recommended candidate is then subject to an interview and group exercise. Entry also via website application with suitable experience.
Exit from the pool is purely on operational requirement and not necessarily in order of time served! Those who scored best at interview leave first. In house mentored scheme at Jerez also producing pilots who will graduate soon and enter the jet pool unless there is an immediate vacancy (12 per year). They will be allocated places first on jet fleets as they are in house.
TP pool still going strong. Entry via website, interview and group exercise. Website has not opened for over a year an will not open until pool has been depleted.
Exit on requirement! -6 swimmers removed this week for a course in Nov!
Last year ther were 9 DHC 8 courses of 6 (54 bods). This year only 4.
There is no recruitment if there is no need.
Patience is a virtue - sometimes even patience needs to be patient!
Brunei cadets to return soon - the airline got a good deal here and needs to take advantage of these. These decisions are made on a commercial basis and no other reason!
The BA Connect recruitment system is based on BA best practice. There are a lot of busy people in Didsbury and they cannot be expected to keep in touch. When they have anything to tell you they will ring you up and offer you a job. Until then they have nothing to say. I know it is frustrating - I was a fish once - now I am a fisherman! I wish I was a trawler.
Hope this helps
Thumper

[Whiteflyer]

So as I see it, intigrated low hours, get right hand seat on jets, whislt experienced F/O's on the Dash 8's (on lower salaries than these new comers), get passed over.

Is this right?

Where is the insentive for the Dash 8 F/O's to stay, when the likes of Easy are looking for these guys

Is this why many leave?

[EGCC4284]

You need a bigger boat.

[darkbarly]

Thumper, thanks for the information, but your description of the course selection process begs the question -

If those selected scored highest at interview, what advantage to the airline (any of them) is there in leaving the lowest scores until last before re-opening the pool?

Secondly, If high interview scores are amongst the criteria for selection, why allow those with lower scores into the pool at all?

If this is accepted protocol, I doubt if you will find many in the hold pool who were informed as such? My recollection was call-up in order of sim date - on the grounds of fairness....

Noticed recently that small slits have appeared around my neck area, almost gill like;)

[Thumperdown]

Whiteflyer

The company needs to recruit pilots for the Dash. If an individual gets a call saying "do you want a job" most swimmers would say yes. The company ensures a steady flow (trickle at times) from the Dash to the jet to ensure career progression - but somebody has to fly the Dash!!. This is done for moral reasons as the initial engagement freeze is for 2 years plus the rest of the current training year. Direct entry jet salaries are higher than Dash (because that is the industry norm). DE jet people are on a reduced salary scale for 2 years. The Dash guys are likely to move after a year or 14/15 months onto the full jet scale and will therefore earn more than a colleague who starts at the same time on a reduced (SSP) jet scale. Also they would have useful TP experience. One could argue the fairness of any system - it is a business and somebody needs to fly the Dash!!
Regards
Thumper

[Thumperdown]

Darkbarly

I can only advise what I know! As previously reported - be patient! The pool is still very much active and if you are in it you will get a call when it becomes your turn. If you get a job elsewhere - good luck. Life is not always fair but BA Connect operates a policy that is as fair and practical to both the company and the people in the pool. It must attempt to reduce the trainig risk where possible.
In the meantime may I suggest that you get a needle and thread and sort out those slits in case the phone rings!!
Regards
Thumper

[ROSCO328]

Glad to see some still have a sense of humour :D :}

[Bram212]

Hi there,

I've got a few questions about BA Connect. Sorry if its already somewhere but since their site is not telling me all that much and my read trough the forums delivered me nothing Iam trying a new thread;)

I would like to know more about there:

- Bases
- Selection procedure
- Salary (prop and jet)
- Rosters
- Type rating (self sponsored?)
- and the peeps they recruit who just com out of school, are they usually placed on the Dash 8? Or also on the Embrear145 or Bae146?

Well any info is welcome, thx in advance! :ok:

[papazulu]

it is a business and somebody needs to fly the Dash!!

I would do the dirty job...Shame I am not in the pool since they closed before I got the reqs. Any news on when it will open again? Today's status? I feel a bit too old to wait for long, but BA is always worth a try.

PZ :ok:

[MrMutra]

Heard on the grape vine, no courses this year now for anyone in the hold pool. Courses now full with 200 hour cadets from Bae and cabair for the rest of the year and early next year

A very happy xmas for all you in the hold pool from BACON not :\

Well good luck to any of you in the hold pool and hope you get a job elsewhere.

:ok:

[Han 1st Solo]

Talked to RH yesterday from flight operations, course end of this year recruiting from the dash 8 holding pool maybe a course early next year Jan or Feb but nothing definate. She said at most 20 left in the dash holding pool although I know for sure that some have found employment elsewhere so hopefully there is less. Started selecting people from the dash pool on who's most suitable as opposed to date order of pool entry, not quite sure what that means as anyone in the pool should be suitable. :=

For those unfamiliar with BACON recruitment it seems that all intergrated students are recruited into the jet holding pool all applicants recruited through the online application go into the dash pool. :ugh:

Regards,

Han.

[Thumperdown]

Han
You are correct as I stated in my previous postings.
McMurtra
You are completely incorrect - refer to my previous postings - and try to look on the bright side! There is a Dash course at the very end of October which will see sim completed in Dec and line training in Jan with 2 potential courses (depending on need) in the early part of new year. NOT filled by 200 hour cadets from anywhere. There is a course of 8 approved mentor scheme FTE cadets who will start on the 14 nov (145 x 6) and 27th nov (2 x RJ 100) all Edi based.
PZ
The info regarding numbers in the pool supplied by Han is correct. Depending on the need will depend the rate at which it is emptied. This will also depend on how many within the pool have got jobs elsewhere. It would help if those who have got a job let RH know! When it is almost depleted the site will open.
Bram
Bases in Inv, Edi, Man, Bhx, Brs and Iom
Starter Pay 21k TP & 35k Jet (approx)
Selection system - see my previous posting
Rosters - excellent scheduling agreement with VG terms and conditions 7 weeks leave etc
Bond (at company expense) over 2 years decreasing at 1/24th
Those that were previously told about getting an interview and have not will need to re-apply when the site opens because the info held is now more than a year out of date and that is the system.
Will do my best to answer any questions regarding the BA Connect recruiting system.
Regards
Thumper

Ps Please see my earlier posting about selection from the pool which is as I stated is not in date order, unfair as that may seem.

[razzele]

Well since I got possibly the best email of my life regarding a future interview for formely BACX, I have not heard anything more !

How rude !

I have added some 800hrs total time since then, I wonder if RH would like to recieve an update in my status ? If so where would i send it any ideas ?

:confused:

[Thumperdown]

I am sure RH will be delighted to hear of you success - Razzele
BA Connect
Pioneer House
The Towers Business Park
Didsbury
M20 2BA

[Toastal]

Maybe Thumperdown or any of the BACON 'fast jet' pilots can help with this one!

After looking on PPJN it states that all internal recruiting from the Dash onto 146/145 has been suspended. It states that only integrated folk are starting on the jet fleets. Firstly, is this true and secondly, is it just 'flavour of the month' or will it change longer term? I know that folk are Type Frozen on the Dash for 2 years, but historically have moved on after 16 months or so. Are they now making the guys do the 2 years before an increase in both speed and salary?

Answers on a postcard please!!:suspect:

[Captain Spam Can]

This question is just out of curiosity, it seems that most people start on the dash then after 12 or so months go onto the EMB-145, well how do they get Captains for the dash, surely then don’t promote you from Dash F/O to EMB F/O then back to dash for Capt then after that EMB Capt???? I’ve just always been curious how it works? (B.T.W no way near job hunting yet just curious)

[Thumperdown]

Hi Toastal
Movement onto the ERJ/RJ for Dash pilots has definately not been suspended. For a short time, because of need, progression from Dash To Jet was very rapid. This soon became the expected norm (by dash fo's). Realistically one would/should expect to serve about 16-18 months on the Dash before moving to a jet fleet. Recently the progression has slowed to about that which should realistically be expected and this to the irritation of those still on the TP fleet. The Head of Flight Crew has deliberately employed new f/o's to allow career progresion onto the jet fleet. If you read my previous postings the way this is done is explained. The statement you asked about is not true.
The Dash f/o's are employed subject to a 2 year initial engagement freeze in addition to the rest of the current training year. The company could keep them on the fleet for that time but as previously stated expect them to move on around 16-18 months. This of course can change subject to need.
CaptspamCan
Yip thats the way it works or should work! TP F/o to Jet F/o to TP Capt to Jet Capt. Of course in the company people bid for what they want on a seniority basis. If someone does not want to go back to a TP as a captain they can wait out their time as a jet F/o (on less money!) until seniority allocates them a jet command. Most tend to want their own train set and go the flip flop route.
Trust that helps
Thumper

[spanner the cat]

Toastal

Unfortunately BA Connect have recruited a lot of new-entrants straight onto the jet fleets. The pilots start on a lower salary (rather like the BA SSP scheme) and get some extra training. They all come recommended by their flying schools (as I understand it) and it isn't brilliant because there are more senior Dash pilots being paid less. The point has been made in the past to Flight Ops Management but to no avail. It's a very good way to keep salaries down as far as they are concerned. The conspiracy theorists amongst the pilots also point out that these shiny young SSP-type pilots would possibly be more acceptable to big BA too. Yes, the Dash pilots are being held to their initial type freezes. Historically it has been as low as 11 to 12 months but as the Dash still has some questionmark over its future they'll try to keep people on as long as they can before shifting people onto the jet.
:ugh:

Captain Spamcan

That's exactly how it works. Mind you it's all down to how you bid. If your choice is to stay on the jet and go directly to a jet command just be prepared for a long wait. Generally, the more junior the FO the more likely they are to bid for a Dash Command - particularly as it would entail a move to MAN and then doing a lot of touring and 5-6 sector days.

As a general rule jet commands have been as rare as rocking horse poo for the past 3 years. The salary differential also encourages you not to stay on the Dash.:=

Regards

[Thumperdown]

Spanner the cat said
"Yes, the Dash pilots are being held to their initial type freezes. Historically it has been as low as 11 to 12 months but as the Dash still has some questionmark over its future they'll try to keep people on as long as they can before shifting people onto the jet."
Spanner - there is not one F/O who has been held to their initial type freeze. There is one who declined an aspirational bid and therefore remains on the fleet. The ? mark over its future has nothing to do with keeping anybody anywhere for any length of time. The company are experimenting with mentored cadets with JOC course due to the training costs experienced with DEP's onto the Jet. The slightly slower movement from Dash to Jet will continue as needs demand. There will be only 12 ssp's a year.
The company need people to fly the dash. Everytime they put a dash f/o onto a jet it costs them 2 type ratings - one jet and a replacement. They need to get a bit of value out of the dash f/o's before releasing them. They also need people to fly the jets. Of course the easy way around it would be to ask f/o's to pay for their initial type rating..... Lets not go there!
Regards
Thumper

[spanner the cat]

Thumper

So how many SSPs have been recruited since the scheme started? Looking at the 06/07 bid result and Sept 06 seniority lists I'd guess that 43 or so pilots have been recruited directly onto the jet fleets in 18 months (give or take). I stand to be corrected if I'm wrong and I can't say for sure if all are low houred and fresh from training but I've a hunch that most are. :E

The best way to do it would be to promote existing Dash F/O's before recruiting directly onto the jet or compensate the individuals concerned for loss of pay. :ouch: The easy way (hur hur good pun :}). Let's see. Jet starting pay 34k, SSP starting pay circa 26k. :hmm: Increase a bit over three years (8 + 5 + 2) and hey presto! The type rating seems to have been mostly paid for! Wow that's a neat trick :D. No I'm not advocating paying for type ratings. PH and CP should do it the good old-fashioned way.

The Dash leases were only renewed for a limited time and if the company could find a suitable buyer for them they'd sell, without a doubt. You just have to look at what has happened in the past to pilots flying a type in the process of being phased out or a reducing fleet. The Co. still needs to fly the type so movement off the fleet stops or is very curtailed. Whether you like it or not, the Dash fleet does have the feeling that it's withering on the vine. I remember being told during one of the previous base closures that the Company had reached a critical mass below which it went at its peril. Well here we are 3 or so years later and we've shed a good number of RJ's and 2-4 Dash 8's since and here we are not even finished with shrinking yet. Doesn't say much for the prospects of progression to a jet for those just being recruited for the Dash. :hmm:
That having been said it's good that they're finally recruiting to allow current D8 FOs to get a jet seat. :ok: A company should always seek to promote/progress from within.


Regards

Spanner

[papazulu]

Thumperdown

Thanks for the tip: I thought my post was lost in the sea of qs about BACon...Don't wanna look too lazy but I think Han's numbers are lost somewhere I cannot locate them, so I make it easy and ask it directly:

Any age vs experience limit within BA (yeah, I know about the law, but...U got it)?
Int vs Mod training discrimination (Again: if I wante a CPL I had to make it happen in a cheap way but I worked out my a:mad: s:mad: s up to FI rating with not a single fail and took it damn seriously)?
Any cons in applying from overseas/being no-UK resident or citizen (still EU)?

I surely have more qs but I'll keep an eye on the website.I don't mind where to start from. Not mad for jets up to the point to turn down a TP job on DHC 8...

Shame FI job is so sh...ty here on the continental EU, at least if you have to do it on P/T basis...

Thanks in advance for the news.

PZ :ok:

PS: Is a FO's word (on BAe146) worth something within the pool? I have a nice friendship with her brother but I don't know the lady personaly, but I hope to meet her sooner or later. Don't worry, I know she's married and my heart belongs to someone else...;)

[Thumperdown]

Hi PZ
About 20 in TP pool
There is no age discrimination in BA Connect nor age v's experience requirement. The most suitable applicant will get the Job (put in the pool). Most recent late starter was 46 previous to that 52.
Modular will only be considered for TP pool. I was a modular chap - for the same reasons as you and a flying instructor as well - I know exactly what you mean. Abolutely no cons for overseas - the requirement is to hold a JAA FATPL and have the right to live and work in the UK &/or IOM. FI job is great! Does not pay too well but a great way to learn and teach the basic skills. Ex instructors are prime candidates for Training appointments further down the line. An experience which will stand you in good stead.
The answer to your last point re your 146 lady friend of a friend is categorically no. BA Connect operate under the wing of the BA fair employment policy and therefore 'who you know' has no bearing. I have a modular colleague who I would like to get started and I can't. I would suggest I probably have a little more influence in the recruiting department than your friend!!
Any more q's please feel free to ask. I know what it was like when I wanted a my first job and will attempt to answer any sensible q's as honestly and factualy as I can. Obviously there are areas which would be unreasonable for me to make comment in which case I will say so.
Regards
Thumper

[papazulu]

The answer to your last point re your 146 lady friend of a friend is categorically no. BA Connect operate under the wing of the BA fair employment policy and therefore 'who you know' has no bearing.

I knew you were going to say so, but I like to play devil's advocate :E

As I said I don't know the girl personally and I was just wondering if, as a normal practice, when you name someone you know within the company that is used as part of the selection process.

Thanks for the aw's.

PZ :ok:

[Thumperdown]

Hi PZ
Well to be a bit blunt!
"As I said I don't know the girl personally and I was just wondering if, as a normal practice, when you name someone you know within the company that is used as part of the selection process."
What use could that possibly be to your ability to do the job? I would suggest it is not normal practice. Once knew a guy who name dropped a bloke who was detested by the interviewer. He got the job - thats fair employment eh!
Regards
Thumper

[papazulu]

What use could that possibly be to your ability to do the job? I would suggest it is not normal practice. Once knew a guy who name dropped a bloke who was detested by the interviewer.

Hope I haven't been misuderstood. I was just wondering what that qs on some application forms (Do you know anyone working for us? If YES please name him/her) is for. Regarding my friend's sister...well if I had the chance to meet her one day and after apply for a job in her company, I would name her. That's it. Surely nobody will expose his/herself for Mr. I-dont-know-this-chap, ain't? I wouldn't do it for sure.

Regards

PZ :ok:

[cheesycol]

FYI, Modular students can and do go straight on to the 145 at BA Connect.

[Thumperdown]

Hi Cheesycol

There have been a few modular who are were in the hold pool but it is not the current policy to recruit future pilots, from a modular background, directly onto the jet or into the jet holding pool.
Of course things may change with the supply and demand thing!
PZ
Roger!

Regards
Thumper

[cheesycol]

I must have got lucky then!

[Thumperdown]

I must say, being of a modular background myself, that I am not convinced of alll of the logics behind the policy - as you have proven. Its nice to have a bit of luck now and again - none of us would get too far without it!

[Bacon Slicer]

Why get so excited chaps? one ability you will need to get during your professional careers is to work out how long an airline will be around.

BACON is dead in the water and is sinking below the waves - I know and understand that to many of you it is your first job, However do not make long term plans or move house to join BACON. It's throat is cut and it is bleeding to death- the wake is no more than a couple of years away- if that long. A good example of this is that the operating company at Birmingham Airport is actively talking to many operators to fill the terminal and stands in T2 when BACON is finally fryed up.

The good news is that much is going on in the UK industry because of progressive forward looking airlines and many jobs are available. Good luck. One day soon a book should be written about how this once group of decent airlines was turned into a awful fry up!

[Jinkster]

If BACON closes or goes under....

What will happen to the pilots :uhoh:

[Thumperdown]

Ensure your cup is half full , not half empty! What happens if it becomes a great success story with new shiny toys?
Word on the grapevine is that a few of the 'new' low cost airlines are struggling and loosing a lot of money whereas BA Connect has shrunk and tightened the belt to survive the overcapacity in the market. It has been forced to lower its service standards to just above that of its competitors i in order to compete - shame really

[Bacon Slicer]

not really.

[Mark "Bez" Berry]

Slicer no offence meant but I think your a litte out of touch with the average wanabees ability to gain employment. Your comments about not taking the job if you have long term plans or have to move are rubbish. As Thumperdown says things could go either way and if the company goes down the bog then you leave with a green book and type rating, that you didn't have to pay for! If it doesn't then you've a good job with good T&C's, there are many worse outfits to work for believe me. If you get the offer go for it it's no brainer!

Keep those cups half full.

Bez.

[Thumperdown]

Thanks Bez
Regards
Thumper

[V2andSOME]

Howdi all,

I agree, Thumperdown, what you have been posting is the most accurate, all this doom and gloom talk about Bacon sizzling out. They would not be doing courses if there was a dire problem. Connect amongst the public is popular, there are many angles to look at this but I try to keep with the positive.
:}

rgds
V2

[papazulu]

I really don't get the point...Is really the most of us in the position to turn down a TP job with a BA sister company just because competition is fierce and nobody knows if and how long they will last? Guys...They're still carrying BA name on the fuselages, aren't they? I won't even speculate on the logbook TR endorsment, bearing a CV line saying I was trained in a BA TRTO would make it worth...I don't mind writing "...F/O on...from...to"...

If anyone is not going do you mind to give me a bell before? Wish U good luck!

PZ :ok:

[Thumperdown]

V2+PZ
Thanks for your support. My postings are accurate because I am fortunate to be in a position to know. I remember what it was like when I was looking for my first job - for that reason alone, I try to post the most honest and accurate recruitment information that I can. Whilst it may not help you get a job it will at least alleviate some of the misinformation (nearly said something else there!) being put about. May I also say that I am 'more than qualified' to post in this area!:)
Whilst not every body would lower themselves to fly a TP or 'small jet' with BA Connect, others, like me are grateful. May well have some good news for the in the early part of next year - standby!
Regards
Thumper

[papazulu]

Thumperdown, please check you PM's

Well...sure you got mine few days ago, but no worries it was not asking for any kind of support but to get rid of all the s..t and misinformations that circulate on the web. As I said we should consider the position you are know and where you could be in a 5 yrs period after you joined BACON instead of looking for better T&C. Raise you hand you all that had the chance to choose their first job and impose their terms...Sorry, I am a short geeza so I don't see any hand right know...:p

Whilst not every body would lower themselves to fly a TP or 'small jet' with BA Connect, others, like me are grateful.

So am I

PZ :ok:

[mark twain]

I am currently a First Officer with BA Connect on the TP. What can I say about it - it is great training and experience, and I do not regret taking the job for one second.

The insecurity about the future is not good, and is the only downside. However I have BA on my CV, and multi-crew hours in my log book. Realisitically the company is not going to disappear, so my worst case is that I end up working for whoever buys it!

I am an 'older' modular pilot, and to be honest was thankful of the opportunity with BA Connect, it has got me started. Whilst it may not get me through to my pension it is a superb start. All this being said the business model can work, and we do offer a good service - there are lots of positives and a definate upside, however these do not make such good reading on a rumour network!!

I know who Thumperdown is, and I will say that he is the person who knows. He will give you no flannel or b*ll, and anything he tells you should be taken as true, he is certainly in a position to comment on fact rather than rumour.

Finally - there are many people, Thumperdown included, who fight for us, and the people in the hold pool. Regard him as a knowledgeable friend and allie.

[EGCC4284]

so my worst case is that I end up working for whoever buys it!

Who say's it for sale. I think you as others are just speculating.
The has been dome and gloom for years and they are still around.

I also don't think they would be spending money re painting some of the Dash fleet.

If I had the opportunity, I would start for them tomorrow.
There is always someone behind you, wishing they were in your shoes.

BA Connect have altered their strategy in order to survive. If Willie wanted shut, he could of just left it to die.

The saying is, "If your balloon is sinking, through out ballast in order to rise" This is what My Travel did and they are still around as I type.

Mark Twain, my hero. Not heard from you for a long time. Glad you are liking your job. How's the night time view from the flight deck, do you know where GRICE is yet.


I see G-BRYY has got a nice new paint job. Is this not a good sign.
Imagine how many seat you would have to sell to make enough profit to pay for the re spray.

[Thumperdown]

Thanks for your kind comments MT. Drop a note in my dropfile.
Regards
Thumper

[EGCC4284]

Who say's it for sale. I think you as others are just speculating.

I see G-BRYY has got a nice new paint job. Is this not a good sign.

Can you imagine how shocked I am to find out today's news after making these quote's yesterday.

Just goes to show that we never know what's around the corner.

Best of luck to everyone and hope its good news for most.

[scroggs]

The Flybe buyout of BACon discussion has been moved here (http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?t=250793).

Scroggs

[Snevo]

Hey guys,

I am very happy to say that this morning I received a call from BA Connect requesting an interview with me next week. (I was a modular student and have TT 260hrs including 40 multi for those of you who are interested). In preparation for this I thought it wise to ask my good friends on here if anyone who has gone through this process could possibly give me a steer on what the interview involves with regard to personality, CRM and technical questions etc.

Also, if I am lucky enough to pass the interview I will be probably be doing the sim assessment within a week; if anyone could outline what this entails I would also be indebted to them.

Thankyou,
Snevo.

[rtinto]

Hi Snevo

Well done on the interview. Im in the same category as you, modular - just finished couple of months and looking hard for a job, TT 300 Multi 50.

I heard recently they took a few integrated guys from oxford so check out their alumni site and im sure theres a few posts about the interview there. I heard they got on the 146 with a northern base, possibly EDI

Any info on how you got the interview would be appreciated, such as method and who you wrote to and such like.

Good luck

[Snevo]

Unfortunately nothing has been written on the Oxford forums so any help would still be much appreciated.

rtinto: I was referred to BACON by a training establishment so unfortunately I can't help you out, but best of luck to you mate.

Cheers,
Snevo.

[papazulu]

Snevo...

Might I ask you if you where placed in the holding pool before Bacon was sold to Flybe? I wonder why they keep a 1000 hrs TT on the website and kept your CV with those figures. Happy for you though and best luck for the int.

PZ :ok:

[Snevo]

So can anyone shed light on what I can expect in the interview and sim assessment? Any help would be greatly appreciated (you can PM me if you would prefer).

[SD.]

Just out of interest....


Does or did Connect ever base crew at LCY?


If so, will they continue to base crew at LCY after the merger??

Thanks

[Muppet99]

I also have an interview with BA Con next Weds. Would appreciate it if anyone could shed any light on what to expect. At a bit of a loss of what to prepare at the moment.
Apparantly there are no technical questions.
Citiflyer will mean an EDI base too.

[skysoarer]

I also have an interview with BA Con next Weds. Would appreciate it if anyone could shed any light on what to expect. At a bit of a loss of what to prepare at the moment.
Apparantly there are no technical questions.
Citiflyer will mean an EDI base too.

Muppet99! I'm also there on Wednesday! This is my first serious flight-deck job interview, so it'll be very interesting at the least. I would also greatly welcome any advice on the process.

So far I've spent my time going over high-speed flight, an interview techs book, other books on verbal reasoning and advanced aptitude tests and information about Bacon. The Flybe/BA Connect merger throws a spanner in the works for me as I'm uncertain for sure what I'm going for. Don't get me wrong; I was an integrated student on a course with Flybe sponsors and I know people in Bacon who love their job to bits. I would not bat an eyelid at working for either, if I can successfully get through this.

What caused this is emails from ba.com and then an application form that is a clone of the Flybe one minus the logo. Perhaps this is one of the tests?! :}

If any others are going on Wednesday (1200 on my letter), or if anyone has any helpful hints and tips, drop us a line on PM or post here.

Best regards;

Graeme

[skysoarer]

Got the call today to go for a Sim check on Monday morning 6am at Cranebank. Absolutely pleased woohoo!

Awaiting details to be sent via email.

Cheers;

Graeme

[Mister Geezer]

From what I have heard a lot of guys in BACon are looking to jump ship before they start flying aircraft with Flybe painted on the tail. This is bound to create many gaps for Flybe to fill. Either way I think this acquisition/merger (whatever it is being called) will create lots of external vacancies and good news for those with low hours.

BACon morale seems to be slowly going downhill and sadly that impression rubs off when you fly as a passenger with them! they must be haemorrhaging money at the moment with poor loads and high sickness rates! :eek:

[EGCC4284]

skysoarer

How did your sim check go

[unimuts]

Regards the new citiflyer based out of edi,

Does anyone have any inside information regarding the pay for an fo and another other terms and conditions ?

thanks

uni

[skysoarer]

skysoarer
How did your sim check go

Good I think! I'm reluctant to post when I don't know if my efforts scored a goal or not.

I'll keep you posted...

Graeme

[Thumperdown]

Told you to be patient! - The hold pool still exists :)
Mr Gzr
There are no high sickness rates - moral has been better!
SD
There has not been a LCY base - have not heard of any plans
PZ - Hi there - Bacon not sold to Flybe yet

[papazulu]

PZ - Hi there - Bacon not sold to Flybe yet

Hello sir, how R U doing...? I lost sight of the deal for a while since mods merged everything and I haven't sufficient time to keep an eye on all forums. Good to know that pool is still there and hiring goes on. Waiting for good news...just drop a line in my mailbox if any, so I let U know about my recent moves

Good luck to all folks

PZ :ok:

[Mister Geezer]

Mr Gzr
There are no high sickness rates - moral has been better!


Not behind the Flight Deck door by the looks of things.

[skysoarer]

Passed the sim check! Starting day of the course is the 6th Feb, and I thoroughly enjoyed handing in my notice today!! :} ... I will miss where I've been working for the last 4 years (not airline related), and will keep some good memories, but overall I'm glad to be moving on in the right direction.
I know of 2 others so far who have also passed and have been offered courses. Now I'm just waiting for the course materials through the mail. Can't wait to get stuck in after 11 years of chasing this career!
Graeme

Edit: Corrected Month duuur!

[unimuts]

Well done skysoarer,

But help me out here ! are you saying you are now part of the new " Cityflyer" brand ? also whats the deal in pay and base ?

Cheers

uni

[Wellington Bomber]

Skysoarer

Does that mean you have a year to wait, you mentioned starting on the 6th Jan, thats a long notice to work

Or is it just excitement and a typo

[skysoarer]

I honestly don't know whether I'd be on Cityflyer or Flybe. I know it's the Embraer 145 and the training is in Manx, but it depends on the base. I honestly have no preference whatsoever they're both switched-on airlines and I'm not picky.

And Jan was a typo :} . I meant Feb and corrected the post a couple of hours ago.

Graeme

[Wellington Bomber]

Skysoarer

I thought they were going to get rid of the jungle jets, or as the deal with Flybe gone belly up I wonder

[skysoarer]

They're going by 2009 according to the info I have. Can't just switch a fleet overnight after all!

[Bram212]

Happy to say that I got a phonecall from BA Connect last week as well! Starting type @ Manchester next week, can't wait to get going:) Wish me luck!

[MaxReheat]

Are you all mad?

[skysoarer]

Madly happy to have more prospect of an aviation career than I did a month ago! ;)

However if you have a particular argument to state why we shouldn't go for this I for one would be very interested to hear it.

Graeme

[bellyfluffer]

Well done!

PM-ed you a quick question