I could, if I wanted, go through a certain LoCo selection process along with hundreds of other low time wanabees. I haven't applied, but have a friend in the right place who has offered their assistance on many occasions. However, the figures just do not add up for me and I have refused the very kind offer. I just cannot / will not work for free.
This isn't a decision I have taken lightly, as I approach my second IR renewal date, being the wrong side of 35, and having only had one interview in the two years post qualification period. Yes I do want to do this for a living, and I have done all the CV sending, phone calls, networking, etc. Most of the people I trained with now have jobs, and yes I do feel like I am being left behind at times. I can understand why many feel that to "work for free" is the last throw of the dice, but it is a step too far for me, and if it a choice of that or never flying for a living, then so be it, a desk based job it will have to be. Don't underestimate my enthusiasm, it is as strong as anyone else's, but I want a job not a hobby. I will bide my time, and hope a second interview will pop up one day soon.
Flying is my dream job, but I'm a realist too.
I second that.
NH