In late October, I passed my AIB at the second attempt, and was informed during my debrief that my score was not likely to be competitive, and that I shouldn't expect to be called forward for BRNC for at least 6-8 months, if at all. Even then, it may not be for pilot. At the medical centre, my optimism waned slightly when I learned there was only one pilot space (out of 8) available at the next Dartmouth intake. On the basis that I wouldn't be near the top of the selection list, the estimate of 6-8 months did seem realistic. March at the
very earliest, anyway.
Cut to last Wednesday (23rd Nov) - big package (wa-hey) arrives at the door, containing offer of a place at BRNC on the 3rd of January, as Aircrew (Pilot).
Whilst I am overjoyed at getting a place so soon (still partly in shock), and in my chosen specialisation, I had plans to go skiing/travelling in January.
My question is this: Do I just bite the bullet and go for January, or defer 'til March (if that option is available - will need to phone the PSO at the AIB to ask).
My fitness isn't quite there yet (every time I mean to go running I pick up the bike instead), but I reckon 5 and a bit weeks should be enough time, despite Christmas and New Year getting in the way.
Obviously, the final decision is mine, but I would appreciate input from anyone who's been there/done that, either in the RN or the other services (NB. 'Join the crabs' is not constructive
)
P.S. For those that know the selection process - despite my mediocre AIB pass, would my FAT scores, which were apparently very good, be enough to boost me a few places up the selection list? I'm still trying to work out why I've been called forward so soon. The only other explanation would be that all the people above me in the list died suddenly or declined January entry, which I highly doubt .
