Air Atlantique Cadets
Hi there, i am currently a cadet with air atlantique and thought i might be able to shed a bit of light on the company and its cadet scheme. The initial application should be sent to Kay Coley in the form of a CV and covering letter (Address: Air Atlantique, Dakota House, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV8 3AZ). However to even make it past the first hurdle you will need a PPL and a class 1 medical don't even bother applying until you have both of these as you will only get told to go and get them both before you apply again! The interview stage is split in to 3 stages, the first stage involves basic english, maths and science tests, all GCSE level and a Mcquaig tests. They are not difficult but can catch people out if they aren't careful. The second stage involves a sim run in a DA42 or King Air, you dont need to be able to fly them well just show that you can learn and show a basic apptitude for flying, you will also have a simple interview nothing difficult here just get to know you questions and finding out why you want o join a comapny like air atlantique which does things in a less than modern fashion! The final stage involves a flying check out which is to get a better look at your flying and to see how you learn, based on a GFT but no Nav, best tip here is to fly smoothly, keep it co-ordinated and be safe (Good look out) you don't need to be a skygod if you think you are one then keep that to yourself and prove it with your flying. The cadets are typically down to earth characters and so if you do ever apply and make it through to interview be yourself and dont be affraid to have a good chat, the only way you will make it onto the scheme is by selling yourself! (That doesn't meant bragging though!!!!) I will warn you that the scheme is bloody hard work you will get only 1 week off in the first year if you pass all your exams! You will have to work 12 hours a day 7 days a week. In return you do get a lot in return (namely ATPL and most likely type ratings on ATR42, C406).You will get paid £300 a month but you do get a free house with all the bills paid so it isn't too bad as long as you dont get too excited on the weekly shop! You will normally fly on average an hour or so a week depending on previous experience. There are 3 cadet aircraft that are used during training; C-152 tail dragger, HR200, and Maule MX-7. Hope this helps a bit but please remember if you do apply its your attitude that will get you through the interview and tests aswell as get you through the scheme (Namely have a good sense of humour and accept for 18 months your life will be controlled by someone else and that friends and family will have to come second). The scheme is certainly not for everyone and you need to make sure it is. Hope to see your applications in the post soon.
PS Girls have found it harder to get on the scheme in the past for some reason, but they should apply as someone has to get through!!