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Old 28th Jan 2009, 13:26
  #11 (permalink)  
Chilli Corneto
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Being a cadet going through any full time training scheme will cost you a lot more than doing it privately, aka the modular route anyway. So if you can't afford the private route now you're sure as hell not going to be able to afford a full time integrated route.

The only way you can fund it is if you have the money before hand. This can either be through rich parents, a lucky lottery ticket or very deep sofa! Or like many of us working damn hard for a while saving the money you get paid.

Banks did do loans in the past that covered the training bond and this was often under the agreement that nothing had to be repaid back until that cadet had secured a full time position with an airline. The cadet would be on a reduced pay and given the initial bond back to them in installments, allowing them to repay back their initial large loan they got from the bank.

This currently doens't happen now due to the economic climate.

AFAIK hardly any airlines take on the financial risk of training pilots up to ATPL standard anymore. They leave this to the FTO's whom can take the hit should that cadet not make the grade. One of the reasons why the selection is often very thorough and intensive and why there is so much competition. The cadets that do graduate generally have a chance to go to an airline with the airline safe in the knowledge that they meet a minimum standard.

Keep doing as much research as you can. Don't jump into anything head first without knowing exactly what is required of you. Look at doing something privately first. A PPL for example. You don't have to do it but research what it is you have to do. This will give you a rough idea of what going through the ATPLs is like as they're much more intensive.

If you can't even do that now as you don't have the cash then tackle one obstacle at a time. Work out how you will find a job to earn the money that will give you these opportunities. Look at a degree or apprenticeship that will give you a good 'back up' plan. You don't have to do these but you need to evaluate your life and look at every eventuality.

Being an airline Pilot is not just a job. It's a way of life and many of us have to make huge sacrifices to fulfill our dreams. Financially as well as personally.

Good luck.

Chilli.