Ok first post here for me, and im just seeking some sensible feedback about my master plan to move to the uk mid-late 2008. I am currently flying in NZ with an ICAO ATPL, and by the time i complete my JAA ATPL subjects and move over i'll have about 4800TT and 1700 PIC turbo prop.
There are many ways to skin a cat, and well here are some of my thoughts on options...feedback most welcome!
Should i just keep plugging away at the turbo prop command time until i move over, or should i persue the opportunity to self fund a 737-800 rating down here and maybe clock 500 odd hours of co-pilot time on type prior to moving? Which, if either would see me in a better position to get considered for a fast track command once moving to the UK? With my current experience would it really matter?
Getting a rating down here is slighty cheaper than in europe. Would having that 500 hours on type speed up the command process in a big way?
It seems from other threads that alot of the first officers terms and conditions with alot of airlines arnt that flash, so i am trying my best to bypass that as quickly as possible! We all have to do our time there though! Out of interest what would the time to command be on average (if there is such a thing) for someone with similar hours to myself and for say a cadet that starts with just the bare minimum?
If i just continue with the turbo prop time here and then come to europe id have to fund a rating with someone like easyjet. Is the 5000 gbp they pay towards your rating for the 5 year period taxed?
I have friends and family in the Glasgow area. How popular is this base with Easy? Is there a normally a waiting list? Out of these bases which ones traditioanlly are easy to get, and which are damn near impossible?
Once i have sat and passed all the ATPL exams, i still face a flight test of some descriptionfor the ATPL. Is it the norm for any airline hiring to make the type rating check flight the ATPL issue flight test also?
Finally, i see Ryanair is always a hot topic on here. One of the large concerns is the fact the first officers dont seem to be employed in some cases for huge amounts of time after completing their ratings. Is this just a case of the company just hiring the most experienced guys in their pool first and leaving some of the least exp guys till last? Or are they just pocketing the money for the rating?
Im setting my sights on the main carriers, but some of the budget carriers with fast command prospects will also be considered. Im guessing if the news about Virgin and the 787 are true they maybe be hiring alot in 3 years or so?!
Well hope you are still awake after reading this small novel. Thanks for the feedback in advance!
