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Virgin Atlantic MPL Scheme 2016

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Virgin Atlantic MPL Scheme 2016

Old 3rd Feb 2016, 09:30
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Shhhh....

Quite surprised to see how very, very, VERY quiet this thread is this year compared to last year. Any news developments? I know that those who have passed the CTC standard are waiting on CTC to finish their assessments before they start to call people whom they believe fulfill Virgin's requirements, and are invited to the final interview.
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Old 3rd Feb 2016, 09:49
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What's more to say that hasn't already been said.....?

I'm expecting the call/email any day now.
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Old 3rd Feb 2016, 11:10
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He's maybe not putting his point across in the best manner, but the fact is that the cost of these schemes is ludicrous. Yes, a career with Virgin would be great for anyone, but it simply does not cost 100k+ to get CPL/IR, ATPL theory, MCC/JOC and an Airbus type rating. The fact that it's the biggest and supposedly most reputable companies charging this does make it disappointing.
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Old 3rd Feb 2016, 11:30
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The Virgin MPL is akin to the BA FPP. Yes it's an MPL, not an fATPL, but this specific scheme has benefits over others. If people want to pay, they can after all it's their choice. Bonds are repaid on these types of schemes so effectively you pay nothing long term.

As I understand, CTC are holding their last few selection days this week. Shortlisting commences and then Virgin's interviews will happen in March. Good luck to everyone :-)
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Old 3rd Feb 2016, 13:26
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Bonds are repaid on these types of schemes so effectively you pay nothing long term.
You will be in for a rude awakening if you think this is true.
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Old 3rd Feb 2016, 14:31
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You will be in for a rude awakening if you think this is true.
I didn't say this scheme specifically. In any case, I've always had the mindset that if you're an individual afforded the opportunity of an offer on one of these tagged schemes then you are very lucky indeed and should go for it! :-)

Last edited by gbotley; 3rd Feb 2016 at 15:19.
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Old 3rd Feb 2016, 23:05
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I agree with gbotley. You are bonded to the airline for seven years, during which time you will be flying and earning a living in the RHS of an A330. During those 7 years, Virgin repays you, on top of your ordinary salary the security bond of 109000£. It is a great scheme, there is no denying it, especially if you want to get into flying commercial, what an amazing start! But nothing is perfect of course. Unfortunately, a significant amount of qualified candidates may not be able to guarantee the sum required. I have read on this forum thread the rumour that Virgin could act as a guarantor for those who cannot access loans or have no properties. Does anyone know how truthful this rumour is, and if so how many will they be able to offer it to? I wish good luck to those that have passed, and best of luck next time for those who didn't make it this time but keep going at it!
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Old 4th Feb 2016, 15:11
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Does anyone know what the Virgin Atlantic final interview day will consist of if you get through?
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Old 4th Feb 2016, 20:54
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feely46,

This probably won't help you as it doesn't actually tell you what it consists of per se, but CTC mentioned at Dibden it would simply be a 3-on-1 interview this year. As to what will be asked at said interview, then all applicants would be as much in the dark as you and I are.

G.
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Old 5th Feb 2016, 09:07
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The scheme and similar schemes were reported to the serious fraud office late last year and separately to employment solicitors.
With respect, I doubt that the SFO will be interested, nor should they be. The schemes were, I am told, cleared in advance with HMRC who approved them at a local level, particularly with respect to the VAT treatment.

In brief, the payment from the candidate (or his bank) to the one of the training provider's companies is called a bond payment so that it is in effect a loan from the candidate to the company, and therefore not subject to VAT. The company then uses the cash to purchase the flight training internally (inter company transaction, all VAT reclaimed). The 'bond' is then sold to the employing airline (which must be UK based) the airline then 'repays' the bond to the candidate over a period rather than paying part of his/her salary.

Gin & Tonics all round, the flight school effectively doesn't charge VAT on its fees (unlike everybody else), the airline employer looks like a jolly good egg and the candidate may actually believe he is getting flight training for free.
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Old 5th Feb 2016, 20:18
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Thanks Alex Whittingham

I just wish CTC would come out and explain the entire process rather than trying to fool their future "clients" with elaborate half truths.

As for those who maybe bitter because they themselves can't afford these CTC schemes, channel that energy into training in what you may feel is the "correct way" and prove them all wrong. How great do you think that would feel?

Wonder88
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Old 6th Feb 2016, 19:58
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I am absolutely amazed at some of the negativity that has been posted on this thread, I assume by individuals who aren’t on a course, or haven’t been successful in their application(s)!

Concerning the discussion of the contracts, I have absolutely no doubt that those successful candidates will get through training and be welcomed into Virgin Atlantic with open arms, receiving their £109,000 bond back, LEGALLY, tax free, and on top of their salary - it’s been cleared by HMRC and if there were to be issues I’m sure the BALPA legal department would be straight to the defence of those affected.

And yes, it is an expensive course, which could cause issues when trying to secure a loan for some candidates, but one must remember that the money is paid back to the successful candidate, and he/she would get a guaranteed job for at least 7 years, which is a fantastic opportunity for entry into a traditionally difficult industry with barriers to entry.

I wish all others that have applied thus far, or will do in upcoming iterations, the greatest of luck.

VChap
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Old 11th Feb 2016, 20:06
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receiving their £109,000 bond back, LEGALLY, tax free, and on top of their salary
Well not quite, yes you do get a tax free monthly lump on top of your salary but you start on a reduced "cadet" salary.

In the end you end up paying for all of these schemes in some way or another, even the BA FPP. The training schools aren't giving the training away for free, nor do airlines just gift you £109k......

Having said that the opportunity that is on offer on this scheme is excellent, well worth taking on the loan for.
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Old 12th Feb 2016, 11:23
  #274 (permalink)  
 
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BVB,

I understand your point. The point I'm making is that those successful on these schemes will be fine financially! Yes, it would be a reduced salary, which means the airlines make money on you over the 7 years, but are those who apply really bothered the airlines are making profit on you, and looking to start on £60K with full loan repayments? I think they're more motivated by the guaranteed contract for 7 years, at a great company!

On that note, has anyone heard back from CTC about selection days at Crawley yet?

VChap
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Old 12th Feb 2016, 22:05
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Vchap,

No news as of yet. Given CTC saying Virgin planned to see the first lot of shortlisted people on the 29th, one can probably presume lucky candidates will hear on Monday. Anything less than 2 weeks notice could probably cause quite a challenge for logistics of those attending.

For the sake of my nerves and phone battery life I hope that I am on the right lines there :/

Originally Posted by VChap
BVB,

I understand your point. The point I'm making is that those successful on these schemes will be fine financially! Yes, it would be a reduced salary, which means the airlines make money on you over the 7 years, but are those who apply really bothered the airlines are making profit on you, and looking to start on £60K with full loan repayments? I think they're more motivated by the guaranteed contract for 7 years, at a great company!

On that note, has anyone heard back from CTC about selection days at Crawley yet?

VChap
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Old 13th Feb 2016, 11:12
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gbotley,

Last year I heard of people hearing anywhere from just over 2 weeks before to about a week before, so it could be quite short notice. Be prepared to book a last minute room at the Premier Inn on Manor Royal which is very good value, has car parking facilities and is less than 5 minutes walk to The Base!

Is it confirmed whether or not it'll just be the 3v1 interview or are they doing group assessments as well?
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Old 13th Feb 2016, 12:34
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The scheme and similar schemes were reported to the serious fraud office late last year and separately to employment solicitors. These things unfortunately take time but hopefully the first batch in training now will never see that A330 seat they bought
I've no idea why the SFO would have the slightest interest in this or similar schemes, and I'm not sure what interest "employment solicitors" would have in a training course, but I'm sure there are plenty of us who'd love to be enlightened.

A training provider is perfectly entitled to charge whatever they choose; market forces will determine if anyone is prepared to pay it. Nothing fraudulent about it.
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Old 13th Feb 2016, 13:06
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VChap,

Thanks for the heads up on the hotel, out of interest have/did you apply, or are you already on a scheme?

Back to your question though, we've been told at Stage 2/3 it's simply a 3-1 interview this year, perhaps as the group task has already been completed at CTC, but nevertheless should i make the grade - keyword being 'if' as sadly Virgin could turn around with a PFO - then I'd be going in with my eyes open as who knows, plans may change.

I've certainly got my fingers crossed for everyone still in the running as all of those that i've had the opportunity to meet are great people.

G.
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Old 13th Feb 2016, 15:48
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Hi all,

Still waiting to hear about the Virgin Interview either way like the rest of you!

I thought the last selection day was at the end of the February and then the interviews would be scheduled, was I mistaken?

Stay Strong and best of luck everyone!
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Old 14th Feb 2016, 08:45
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gbotley I have applied to this and similar schemes before.

3/1 interview is something like a cadet liaison pilot, a member of HR and someone from higher level Virgin management. They make you feel extremely relaxed and its a similar interview format to CTC, with a little Virgin twist though.
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