Alex Whittingham
Last century after the first Gulf War in 1990, BAeFC Prestwick, who in theory had the potential to train BA cadets until 2004, found themselves devoid of BA, Cathay, Gulf Air to name but a few in 1992.
Downsizing on the flying staff occurred without CR, and a 10% paycut for those remaining.
The decision was made to open the doors to what is now the Modular route with the CPL/IR upgrade courses under CAP509/54.
The 700 hour route was also available. Sufficient flying to pass the 170 and test with CAA staff examiners.
I think by this stage retired/ex-examiners did free lance testing.
The CPL training and test on the PA28, and the IRT on the Seneca III.
Despite being probably the most expensive along with Oxford, the customers kept knocking on the door.
The secret of success was the QUALITY contol applied by Standards. As the customers came from UK /Eire flying clubs in the main, it was by definition a mixed bag.
Some of the students had been very well taught for PPL/IMC.
The Newcastle flying club produced a good product. In fact one is now a FOI with the UK CAA.
Those ATOs who offer QUALITY training albeit slightly more expensive than others will survive and flourish.
Last edited by parkfell; 13th Jul 2020 at 20:46.
Reason: Pay cut replaces “pay out”