Hi all, I got through to the assessment centre last year, around the final 160 people, and I’m not applying this year so thought I’d share some advice from my experience. However, they could have updated the application so please take with a pinch of salt.
From memory the application went: Initial application > online tests > digital interview > assessment centre > sim
The hardest bit by far of the whole application was the online tests. I believe they use a company called ‘Sova’ and there are some example questions online. The abstract reasoning and numerical reasoning were very tough I found, and the only way to get good is to just practice similar tests. You get to notice patterns and styles of questions once you do enough practice.
For any interview I think there are 4 main things to research:
- What are the pilot competencies, what example do you have of you being good at this competency, and how can you quickly break down an interview question and link it to a competency
- What is TUIs business strategy and how do you fit into that as a pilot. You’re not just there to fly planes, you’re essentially working as a team to provide great customer service - have a read through their annual report
- What are TUIs values, how do you show you exhibit these values and that you’re a good fit for the company. E.g. are you always really inclusive of other people and always make sure to do this at work, are you passionate about customer service and going the extra mile
- Why do you want to be a pilot and why at TUI. This gets asked at every single scheme. Why do you want to do this, what research have you done and how do you show a passion for aviation, and why in particular do you want to do it for TUI. If you just say because it’s been my dream since a kid, they’re not going to pick you. It’s a good start, but what do you do in your life that showcases love for aviation and why do you think TUI are so great
There were maths tests online and on the assessment day, useful topics to brush up on: rearranging formulas, plug and chug algebra , ratios, angles, areas, percentage changes - again could be different but these would all be useful.
If you get as far as the assessment centre, there was an in person maths exercise part calculator part no calculator, there was a case study which you had to prep for beforehand, a group exercise, and a competency interview. The staff there were all really great and make you feel as relaxed as possible.
Hopefully that is helpful for your own preparation. Again, can’t stress enough about the online tests that you need to practice practice practice.
Useful resources:
TUI website
Stephenav8 on YouTube
TUI Annual report