PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - ATPL to dream or not to dream approaching 34?
Old 4th October 2009 | 13:25
  #23 (permalink)  
P1 Forever
 
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 158
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From: UK
Hi JJ

Well I personally think there are pros and cons for being young or older, as being younger you might have a better chance of getting a sponsored/payed for type rating on a airbus/boeing jet whereas being older your more likely have a better chance getting a job on a turboprop or bizjet. The bizjet operators are more keen on older applicants as you are in more direct contact with the customer and although your low hours the people in the back don't know that and think you've been flying for years.

I think age was more of an issue 10 years ago as what you've got to remember is that as long as you can hold a class 1 medical then you can retire at 65 therefore someone who gains there fATPL at 35 has potentially 30 years ahead of them. BA used to retire pilots at 55, its now 65, so I dont see any reason why you couldnt get a position with them and go on to get your command, Ham Phisted being a great example of what can be done.

However, as has been said before timing in this game is everything and now is certainly not a good time to be looking for a flying job but you could start modular and see how it goes.

JJ check your pms

All the best!!!

P1.
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