Hello all....here is the official vergin..sorry... version:
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MEDIA RELEASE
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE
PACC 175/02 Tuesday, 23 April, 2002
RAAF PILOTS TRAIN ON NEW GENERATION 737 JETS
The Department of Defence has signed an agreement with Virgin Blue to help train Air Force pilots who will crew the new generation of Special Purpose aircraft.
Two RAAF pilots are currently being instructed on Virgin Blue Boeing 737 jets to build up their flying hours and proficiency on the aircraft before two new Boeing Business Jets are introduced into the RAAF's Special Purpose Aircraft fleet.
The Special Purpose aircraft is the same type operated by Virgin Blue, apart from internal fixtures, and offers the Air Force pilots realistic training from the co-pilot's seat.
The Deputy Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Chris Spence, said it was a mutually beneficial arrangement with no added cost to the Department.
"We are very impressed with Virgin Blue's level of professionalism and the open, friendly attitude of the airline's crew. It's an ideal training environment," he said.
Although they wear their own uniform, the Air Force pilots are rostered as normal Virgin Blue crew members during the expected six to eight weeks of training.
Issued by Public Affairs and Corporate Communication, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Media Releases are available via email if you register at the Media Centre at
www.defence.gov.au
End of release
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These guys had ATPLs well before doing this task. RAAF pilots get no concessions from CASA when undertaking the ATPL exams.
All defence-operated aircraft that are listed on the civil register must be flown by license-holders only. If the RAAF needs pilots to get a license to do a task, it normally pays for the costs, but in many cases there are pilots who have already paid for their own licenses and exams.
Such a pity that KD cannot provide some line experience for the CL604 as well.......almost same as the CRJ.
Donpizmeov - yes he iz.
RM
