Originally Posted by
ay380
I'm looking to start flight training and not really sure which would be the best option for me in the current market. I've saved enough to allow me to go self funded and I qualify for cadet programmes so currently my options are:
- Easyjet MPL Cadet Programme - have read all the posts about cadets being dropped etc. but this is still a most direct way of getting onto a jet
- Self funded UK CAA/EASA fATPL (integrated) - no guaranteed employment at the end of the course (done the research and integrated is the way to go for me)
- CX Cadet Programme - have read all the posts about current CX conditions/contract and long time before upgrade to FO (if ever) but also a direct way to be on a widebody
Being 30, I feel like I should build as much experience as possible instead of spending 5-7 years after training as a relief pilot so I am leaning towards either the Easyjet MPL or self funded route. However, I'm having a difficult time deciding which option would be the best to take as I worry about the licence and job opportunities that I will end up with.
So my questions are:
If you were in my position, which of these options would you go for?
- Go for the most direct route to hands on jet flying but run the risk of being stuck with a MPL and/or with no job?
- How risky do you think the MPL course is given that Europe is in/heading towards post-COVID recovery?
- Self fund a UK CAA & EASA fATPL and hope the job market will be positive when done with the course? What do you think the job market will be like in 2024/25?
- I note that if I choose this route, I'm unlikely to be able to be offered a job with Easyjet as they're only taking cadets from CAE (as mentioned on this forum), so that would be one opportunity out the window right off the bat
- Or spend 5-7 years (according to posts I've read) in the jumpseat of a widebody hoping to eventually upgrade to FO whilst being close to family and friends
Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you for your help in advance.
Hello all, I'm in a similar situation so didn't want to start a new thread on the topic.
I'm also looking to start flight training but unsure of which path to choose. I have similar options to the OP except that I don't have the funds to go integrated.
I've applied for the CX Cadetship and awaiting to hear back about assessments, but after reading through this forum I'm not sure if its a good option anymore, considering I could get stuck indefinitely in a SO position, unable to move elsewhere with a P2X.
I've also been offered a position as Cabin Crew with BA although due to a massive backlog, have no start date yet. I thought perhaps I could do this while going modular in the UK.
Been seeing the option of going to flight school in the US mentioned in this forum as well, but unclear as to how that would work.
Since it's early 2023 now and many restrictions have been lifted, I'd like to ask the opinion of those in here as to what you think is the best path towards getting licensed now?
TIA!