Good morning
Would anyone with any experience, etc care to give an HONEST appraisal of Falcon Aviation Services in Abu Dhabi and their UAE plans for growth, etc? This is not a fishing exercise and I would ask that it not turn into a slagging match, it is simply a request for a genuine perspective on the company and its potential as a possible work place. Thank you in advance.
- Rumour has it that the chief pilot has resigned? If so who is replacing him? How does this reflect on the company and its operational future? Who are the fleet captains, ops manager, etc? How do those working there and those who have worked there view the future of the company?
- With the loss of the UAE SAR contract, how has this actually impacted on the company?
- Types actually operated? Is it only the B4 or are they operating the A109, L3, 412 and 365N as commercial machines? If so on what type of operations?
- Bases? The B4's operate from the Festival City in Dubai at the new helipad. Also the L3 has been operating as a back up to the B4's, which have had AC issues. What is the general maintainance actually like? Will this continue or will the L3 be primarily used for aerial work, banner towing, etc? How is the aggreement with Alpha Tours and the Festival City working? Is Bateen a useful operational base, given the restrictions that are in place over Abu Dhabi? Where does the company envisage the future going with regard to its UAE and Gulf wide and or international operations?
- Experience levels? The advertisement in Flight last week and on the website requires 2000hrs, un-restricted ATPL, IR, etc, etc..... What are the plans for pilots with these qualifications? Are the B4 tour pilots similarly qualified? Is there a tiered system of salary and conditions versus qualifications and operational use? I believe that the company is about to start a Total contract? If so how long, etc? Two crew or single pilot?
- Salary and conditions? Are there both single and married and accompanied contracts available, with accomodation, school fees, etc both in Dubai and Abu Dhabi? If so can anyone give any information on what is on offer?
Many thanks.