PhD graduate in Aerospace Engineering looking for advice on CV building for MPLs

[Robberine89]

Hi guys,

I will share some of the advice that has bee given to me already in this post and not just ask for it, since I feel this should be both give and take.

Firstly a bit about me: I am 26 and recently finished a PhD working on coatings for turbine blades for the new Trent XWB engines. It was a real eye opener and got me thinking about aviation and specifically flying as a career. I have 2 hours flight experience in a 172 and absolutely loved both flights. Ive got 4 more hours booked and have been working through some PPL theory. I am fortunate I have around 50k of savings which would help towards funding more flying hours or around half of an MPL programme. I applied to ATC at uni (both at undergrad and post grad level) but was turned down partly becuase I had no flying experience. I do also have work experience (investment banking) and quite a bit of volunteering experience under my belt. I really want to spend the next few months getting the right experience that will help me fulfill my ambition and stand a good chance of getting onto one of the MPLs (along with so many other candidates I know).

Im looking specifically at the Virgin and BA ab initio programmes and have a few months to prepare. Having spoken to a pilot at BA he recommended that I get a solo flight under my belt with perhaps 20 hours flight time too. Also a class 1 medical and ideally some time in a sim if possible. What about work experience? What about taking PPL theory exams? Im booked in for the class 1 medical and a flight sim at Elstree aerodrome but this is really only a groupon voucher. Im flying with Cambridge aeroclub and they have sims there but I think by also doing that the cost is just going to shoot upward.

Many thanks

[Reverserbucket]

Im looking specifically at the Virgin and BA ab initio programmes and have a few months to prepare. Having spoken to a pilot at BA he recommended that I get a solo flight under my belt with perhaps 20 hours flight time too. Also a class 1 medical and ideally some time in a sim if possible. What about work experience? What about taking PPL theory exams?

You are probably aware that BA is not an MPL scheme but in any event, getting 20 hours under your belt and achieving solo is not necessarily going to benefit you - neither MPL or the traditional Integrated CPL course require previous experience and although demonstrating some interest, could be detrimental. As for PPL theory, unless you intend to obtain a PPL, studying at PPL theoretical knowledge level, although useful as background to further studies, would be largely a waste of time. You would be better prepared dipping into EASA ATPL level theory. A Class 1 is a good idea - making sure you can achieve the standard before commencing serious training is wise, although this will be also be taken care of by the training provider if accepted on a course. I wouldn't waste time playing in simulators at this level - you sound as if you need some structure to your plan. A PhD in Aerospace Engineering and background in investment banking - quite different fields, can only compliment your chances of success in achieving your goal and I would suggest searching these forums for further information and advice concerning integrated flying training and the MPL with respect to your two target airlines.

Best of luck!

[LocaliserIsAlive]

Class 1 first

Pal,

Get a class 1 medical - you'll spare yourself false hopes and lots of cash if you fail.

If you pass (I hope you do), from my experience, success lies on the same fundamentals that got you to be a PhD in one of the world's best Uni and investment banking work experience. Do your home work, stay passionate focused and humble, network.

As to the best route, if I was smart and young, I'd favour the AB initio route. You know your are going to fly and you will not pay for it.
Else get into a school with a deal with an airline. It is a great time to want to become a pilot.
The fly your savings, earn a bit and build-up time will get you there, but in Europe, it is a long and uncertain way to get to FL280 and you'll always feel you never have enough money.

If I had a bit of cash, I would spend a bit of it flying on a 172 - just because I love being in the air - may be in a low cost flying place (the US).

If I had a bit of time, I would take my PPL theory - it covers a lot of fundamentals you'll need when you'll fly a 200'000 lbs MTOM aircraft at Mach .80. I would love learning about my trade.

Last but not least, I would take advice and posts from forums with a pich of salt. Most of the material comes from APTL(f) whom have been looking for their first right seats for lots of very long months, only know the route they have taken and need to vent-out some frustration. (I do lots of sport to deal with the last bit, it is more effective).

[SeventhHeaven]

I would also suggest you get some pilot interview training. You're a clever man, most pilots are not however much they might disagree. You're likely to give answers based on your (life) experience and education, which unfortunately is not what they'll expect or want to hear.

[hamiltonB]

You're likely to give answers based on your (life) experience and education, which unfortunately is not what they'll expect or want to hear.

Can you expand on this? I would have thought that is exactly what they expect / want to hear?

Most of the questions at the interview will be 'Give examples of a time when you...' type questions, no?

And as stated above, they are clearly not looking just for flying experience.

Thanks in advance.

[parkfell]

Sponsorship through either BA or AerLingus are worth exploring.

If you do decide to carry out some flying at a club, you might as well obtain your class one medical without delay.
The worse aspect of an integrated course for you may involve having to unlearn any horrible habits/techniques you pick up at a flying club. Choose your instructor carefully. The initial 10-15 hours are critical in building a solid foundation, and learning to trim, and TRIM PROPERLY.

No flying experience is necessary, and many say better, for the integrated course.