In my experience of training alongside both self-sponsored and airline sponsored cadets I can honestly say that there wasn't a great deal between them in terms of ability on the whole. Sure, there was the odd CEP who was above the above-average standard but then so were some of the self sponsored students, even more so in some cases.
I do find it strange that an airline would still be willing to sponsor a cadet especially after 11th September as there are so many qualified pilots in the pool and will continue to be so for some time. I think the airlines would be throwing money away to be honest. Far cheaper for them to tap into the integrated schools database and seek out above average self-sponsored pilots then give them a contract they must stick to for two years or whatever to ensure loyalty.
Sorry - just my opinion.
VFE.
Last edited by VFE; 10th July 2002 at 08:54.