Hi there Joaquin!
If you are still thinking about the SA work permit, write to me again so I can do my best to dissuade you!!! (You have my e-mail address).
Yes, you can get a King Air rating in SA for much less than you can in the UK. There are several operators who will take your money.
But will this get you the job you seek? I considered this route, and all the companies I was in touch with regarding work, and the people in the know who I spoke to, told me to forget it.
The point is that a King Air rating, as such, can be gained in a matter of days. An employer is not going to employ you because you have a rating; he either likes you and sees potential, you have something else to offer him, or you have experience on type.
How do you get experience on type? Well, the employer either likes you and sees potential, or you have something else to offer him. If you get a job offer, the rating can then be gained in a few days.
There is no substitute for the long hard slog of doing the rounds, making contacts, visiting etc etc.
I considered doing the King Air rating myself, took the advice I was given and didn't, and am now flying King Airs!
A friend also heeded the advice and has just been offered a position on a Do28. A King Air rating wouldn't have done her much good!
Good luck oldchook. I hope you get to fly the King Air. Don't worry about your age. I got my 'ticket' to fly commercially at age 45 (last year!).
[ 27 November 2001: Message edited by: PingPong ]