RFDS roster patterns - commuting viability
G’day all,
Current DHC-6 Capt looking at making the jump to RFDS, likely QLD or WA ops. Trying to get my head around the roster reality before I pull the trigger on an EOI.
Situation: Partners job requires them being based in BNE/PER and I’d be looking to commute back 2-3 times per month if based elsewhere. Happy to jumpseat/commercial on days off.
Questions for current/ex-RFDS pilots:
Roster pattern – What are the common rosters running at the moment? Any bases more commute-friendly than others?
Days off blocks – Do you actually get usable blocks of 4+ days, or is it lots of 1-2 day breaks that make commuting pointless?
Base differences – Any intel on QLD vs WA?
Commute culture – Are there guys successfully commuting to capital cities, or does everyone just relocate? Any bases where management is more/less flexible?
Not after state secrets. Just trying to work out if I’m setting myself + partner up for failure taking a job where I can’t get home regularly.
Cheers