Originally Posted by
AdooIsma
Hi everyone,
I’m a 43-year-old from Singapore, and it’s been my childhood dream to become a pilot. After years of running my own business (which is now fully automated and doesn’t require my physical presence), I finally have the funds and time to pursue this dream. I’m planning to take my Commercial Pilot License in Perth, Australia, but I’m facing a big challenge, building the required flight hours after the course. Here’s my situation: After completing my CPL, I’ll need to clock 1,500 flight hours to qualify for a job with major airlines. In Singapore, it’s almost impossible to build these hours because the country is so small, and flight schools often send students overseas (like Perth) to complete their flying. I can’t stay in Perth to accumulate hours because I won’t have a working visa after my student visa expires. My question is:What are the chances of companies in Australia or other parts of the world hire me or sponsor a working visa to build my flight hours? Are there pathways for international pilots to gain experience, or am I stuck in a catch-22 situation? Some additional context: I’m fully self-funded and willing to relocate if necessary. I’m aware of the challenges of starting a pilot career later in life, but I’m determined to make this work. I’m open to any advice, whether it’s about finding flight instructor roles, charter opportunities, or other ways to build hours.
I'm not looking to ROI, I just want to experience flying the big jets!!! Has anyone been in a similar situation? Are there regions or companies that are more open to hiring international pilots for entry-level roles? Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!
You can come on a tourist visa, hire an aircraft and build your hours that way as a PPL.