Emirates Hold Pool
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Post-Pit and Lovin' It.
Posts: 863
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I realize that not everything will be quite as glamorous as it is has been marketed.
I have a small device attached to my computer that measures understatement and it just exploded!!
BWAHAHAHAHAH!!! omigod that is funny! *wipes tears from eyes*
Dubai is the World Capital of bull****, the absolute only area it excels in is self-promotion. Yes, there is opportunity, and yes, there is even some money to be made. But unless you come from somewhere like SA where you've gotten tired of having a gun stuck in your face, or Zim where you've had your property stolen and your family killed, I wouldn't get too anticipatory about all the "culture" you're going to drink in...DXB is where culture goes to die, where even the celebration of crass is cynical, where Las Vegas looks tasteful and wholesome by comparison. Buying a Guggenheim and a Louvre (if that even happens now) is not "culture". Malls are not "culture". Greed, selfishness and lies are, I suppose, but I'm guessing that's not what you're looking forward to?
Anyway do be sure to post again AFTER you join!
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: With my lady
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I have to admit "where culture goes to die" is pretty funny but going back to the thread, has anyone in the pool heard anything? I interviewed end of June and it's been quiet. Not that it doesn't surprise me with the world economy....
Last edited by IDbackcountry; 21st Dec 2008 at 20:46.
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Over Graz
Posts: 164
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I believe reading something a week ago, about EK retaking the hiring as of Feb 2009. People in the holding pool should just be patient. The Chairman voiced his views as well, saying that EK will continue with the expansion, despite the global economic turmoil.
Living in Dubai, driving around, dealing with the different nationalities, requires a great deal of patience and common sense.
Living in Dubai, driving around, dealing with the different nationalities, requires a great deal of patience and common sense.
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: In the seat
Posts: 284
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Bavarian
You were warned, your job application has been denied due to the post already filled for the assistant chief pilot.
Don't let us ever here you moan whilst you're in EK - that's if you get in of course.
Good luck
You were warned, your job application has been denied due to the post already filled for the assistant chief pilot.
Don't let us ever here you moan whilst you're in EK - that's if you get in of course.
Good luck
Join Date: Mar 1999
Location: Travelling East
Posts: 259
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
A gentle heads-up for the more experienced in the pool, the current time for command is 3 years and 4 months, and is expected to increase due to the reduced intake next year, and the slow pace of people leaving due to the world situation.
Therefore even if you do meet the Accelerated Command requirements, you are unlikely to get a command any earlier than your coursemates. Quite a few of us were told that we meet the AC requirements, and should expect commands within 18-24 months, but with so little movement we can now expect command at about 48 months.
Remember, when you join, there are over 1200 First Officers ahead of you on the Seniority List. Intakes were planned at 450-550 pilots per year at the beginning of this year, now next year's intake is apparently planned at 150.
If you are out of work, or soon about to be, then this is still a good place. But if your job is secure, think once again if the major upheaval for you, and more importantly, your family is worth it.
Good luck, I hope things move quickly for all of you in the pool (and those trying to get in!!)
Therefore even if you do meet the Accelerated Command requirements, you are unlikely to get a command any earlier than your coursemates. Quite a few of us were told that we meet the AC requirements, and should expect commands within 18-24 months, but with so little movement we can now expect command at about 48 months.
Remember, when you join, there are over 1200 First Officers ahead of you on the Seniority List. Intakes were planned at 450-550 pilots per year at the beginning of this year, now next year's intake is apparently planned at 150.
If you are out of work, or soon about to be, then this is still a good place. But if your job is secure, think once again if the major upheaval for you, and more importantly, your family is worth it.
Good luck, I hope things move quickly for all of you in the pool (and those trying to get in!!)
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: USA
Age: 60
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
EK Interview & Lifestyle
I just received notification of an interview in Feb. Anyone else?? Also, any current pilots with accurate lifestyle/working conditions update? What are EK's plans for the future? I'm being furloughed in Feb, and so far this looks like the only opportunity. Any info would be greatly appreciated...
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Who needs to know!!
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Job security? Well, I just got downgraded to an F/O position after 4 years as a Captain at an airline here in the US. Huge pay cut and kids are almost ready for preschool. Seeing EK's benefits, I just can't turn my back and walk away. In addition, tax free income and a world class airline, atleast comparing with any airline in the States.
Last edited by Mr.Shaft; 23rd Dec 2008 at 00:40.
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: USA
Age: 60
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Mr Shaft,
If your being downgraded, why will they need to interview/hire in the coming year? Aside from housing, schools, and tax free income. what are the other benefits that weigh into the equation? What is the current housing situation; seems like that is a continual complaint?
Thanks for your help
AS
If your being downgraded, why will they need to interview/hire in the coming year? Aside from housing, schools, and tax free income. what are the other benefits that weigh into the equation? What is the current housing situation; seems like that is a continual complaint?
Thanks for your help
AS
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Who needs to know!!
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Anti skid......I'm here in the States with a major airline.....I actually interviewed with EK and I'm currently placed in hiring pool. We were told to expect a course date before the end of the year.
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: US
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I think the fine print on the course dates at Emirates probably read + or - the end of the year. Based on what some of the gents who work for Emirates say on this site, I think Emirates may do whatever they want not unlike most airlines. So, I am sure it's coming for you guys and gals. But don't be disappointment if it doesn't exactly come before Dec 31st.
Join Date: May 2003
Location: KGRB, but on the road about 1/2 the time.
Age: 61
Posts: 622
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hi!
"Culture" in Dubai?
I have a buddy who went to EK. Hated EK, hated Dubai, etc., etc. He is American and mostly single.
Another buddy is European, wife is American. They LOVE Emirates, they love Dubai. They don't have kids.
I would like it, and I would like for my family to live there, and my kids to go to school there.
cliff
GRB
"Culture" in Dubai?
I have a buddy who went to EK. Hated EK, hated Dubai, etc., etc. He is American and mostly single.
Another buddy is European, wife is American. They LOVE Emirates, they love Dubai. They don't have kids.
I would like it, and I would like for my family to live there, and my kids to go to school there.
cliff
GRB
Join Date: May 2008
Location: USA, Japan
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
FWIW, I got re-invited for early February interview (was scheduled in September, all interviews xld at the time). I'm currently on the 767/757 but have also got a lot of hours on the A320/A319. Currently at a legacy, 9,500 TT, 1,000 PIC (727), applied for an FO position.
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: North America
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Okay Folks here is an up-to-date picture of things at Emirates as I write this email (could change by tomorrow!!)
For the guys/gals in North America I believe it is a good move (that is my own opinion) especially in a legacy carrier with a seniority system. Now this depends on what you want out of your career. If you are happy with you current lifestyle and the priority is on where you live, stay where you are. Dubai (at times) can be a challenging place to live especially if you are from the Western world. The level of incompetence with various employment sectors is sometime mind-boggling. I wonder sometimes how this place functions on a regular basis, but it does, in it's own unique way. If your career paths has you wanting to flying large aircraft to a wide spectrum of destinations (from third world to first world), Emirates is the place. The equipment is great (with lot's of on-board toys), and the cabin crew are great to work with. Not the place for someone who's marriage is on the rock, if you know what I mean
As far as the housing situation goes, basically it is a mess. From what I am told from guys I work with, there is still a little over 100 pilots in temporary accommodations and and no end in sight. One question I would ask if you do interview is, "can you show me the villa's the latest round of new-hires were "assigned". That could be a deal breaker from the candidates point-of-view. The next round of villa's in the choice areas appears to be around mid-2009. Like everything in Dubai, it is a 50-50 chance, that those projects will be pushed back until the end of 2009 considering the current financial situation in Dubai itself. My advise would be to leave the family at home until you have a move in date. It will save you a lot of stress, yes, even more than if you commuted back and forth until the accommodation issue is resolved. I must admit, it is nice not having a mortgage and utility payment every month.
The fleet assignment. If you get Airbus, expect a lot of sub-continent turns (India, Pakistan, etc) in the bottom big groups in the over-night hours, with 8-10 days off per-month. While it is not a lot of days off, you are home a lot. In the tops groups expect a better sked to places like Europe, etc. Once you are CCQ on the A340 the roster should improve even further. If you get Boeing, well the roster is just better because of the long-haul type flying the aircraft does.
The working conditions. They have their moments, but then again, every airline does, and I have yet to encounter an airline where everyone is happy (unless they are all on drugs
). Even though there is no union, they are an okay bunch to work for and I will give them credit (where credit is due). They are not laying-off even when they are a little fat, they are still taking delivery of new aircraft, and are still looking to expand in 2009 where most other carriers on cutting back. Looks like they taking advantage of their competitions weakness in challenging times, like any smart business operation would. I do like working for a group that can quickly adjust to a changing market-place and not have to get "approval" from the "unions".
Family life. Well it is what you make it. Some people love it and some hate it. It all depends on your mind-set. One thing to remember, you are here for a good time, not a life-time. The schooling for the little ones is great and you do not need to worry about them getting shot in the school yard or going through metal-detectors when they enter the school. They will be exposed to a wide-range of different cultures, which is an education in itself. As far as the driving goes, the only word I can thing of is "Valium". There is road rage here, but not the shot at you type, just a lot of yelling (and if you do not speak the language, it is all babble anyways). The police and transit authority are trying to curb the driving issue, but it will take time.
So for those considering coming, you have the facts. There is lots of opportunity here, but Dubai is not the place for everybody. Personally, it was the right move so far for my family, earlier retirement, and some great life experiences.
Good luck to all with your decision.
For the guys/gals in North America I believe it is a good move (that is my own opinion) especially in a legacy carrier with a seniority system. Now this depends on what you want out of your career. If you are happy with you current lifestyle and the priority is on where you live, stay where you are. Dubai (at times) can be a challenging place to live especially if you are from the Western world. The level of incompetence with various employment sectors is sometime mind-boggling. I wonder sometimes how this place functions on a regular basis, but it does, in it's own unique way. If your career paths has you wanting to flying large aircraft to a wide spectrum of destinations (from third world to first world), Emirates is the place. The equipment is great (with lot's of on-board toys), and the cabin crew are great to work with. Not the place for someone who's marriage is on the rock, if you know what I mean
As far as the housing situation goes, basically it is a mess. From what I am told from guys I work with, there is still a little over 100 pilots in temporary accommodations and and no end in sight. One question I would ask if you do interview is, "can you show me the villa's the latest round of new-hires were "assigned". That could be a deal breaker from the candidates point-of-view. The next round of villa's in the choice areas appears to be around mid-2009. Like everything in Dubai, it is a 50-50 chance, that those projects will be pushed back until the end of 2009 considering the current financial situation in Dubai itself. My advise would be to leave the family at home until you have a move in date. It will save you a lot of stress, yes, even more than if you commuted back and forth until the accommodation issue is resolved. I must admit, it is nice not having a mortgage and utility payment every month.
The fleet assignment. If you get Airbus, expect a lot of sub-continent turns (India, Pakistan, etc) in the bottom big groups in the over-night hours, with 8-10 days off per-month. While it is not a lot of days off, you are home a lot. In the tops groups expect a better sked to places like Europe, etc. Once you are CCQ on the A340 the roster should improve even further. If you get Boeing, well the roster is just better because of the long-haul type flying the aircraft does.
The working conditions. They have their moments, but then again, every airline does, and I have yet to encounter an airline where everyone is happy (unless they are all on drugs
). Even though there is no union, they are an okay bunch to work for and I will give them credit (where credit is due). They are not laying-off even when they are a little fat, they are still taking delivery of new aircraft, and are still looking to expand in 2009 where most other carriers on cutting back. Looks like they taking advantage of their competitions weakness in challenging times, like any smart business operation would. I do like working for a group that can quickly adjust to a changing market-place and not have to get "approval" from the "unions".Family life. Well it is what you make it. Some people love it and some hate it. It all depends on your mind-set. One thing to remember, you are here for a good time, not a life-time. The schooling for the little ones is great and you do not need to worry about them getting shot in the school yard or going through metal-detectors when they enter the school. They will be exposed to a wide-range of different cultures, which is an education in itself. As far as the driving goes, the only word I can thing of is "Valium". There is road rage here, but not the shot at you type, just a lot of yelling (and if you do not speak the language, it is all babble anyways). The police and transit authority are trying to curb the driving issue, but it will take time.
So for those considering coming, you have the facts. There is lots of opportunity here, but Dubai is not the place for everybody. Personally, it was the right move so far for my family, earlier retirement, and some great life experiences.
Good luck to all with your decision.