Roger,
The Astraeus speaker made a very valid point at the conference,
stating that people want to go straight into the RHS of an airliner and don't consider instructing etc.
I personally think from speaking and listening to student at the school i instruct at that some think either it is beneath them and that they have a god given right to the RHS or that the elusive pilot shortage will take over and that a 737 will suddenly becon.
Well said! I just wanted to comment on the perceived lowness of instructing. I have to say I am suprised. I always perceived instructors to be professionals with the added talent of being able to communicate their skills to complete and utter novices. Although I am only PPLing right now I would not be happy with anybody other than someone who instils confidence in me.
It strikes me as obvious that a carrier will look more favourabley upon people friendly people and a stint as an instructor is surely one of the best ways to demonstrate yet more positive aspects of one's character. Peronsally I look forward to the chance of doing some PPL instructing, although it is quite a way off yet. The knowledge that it is also a valuable addition to my CV only encourages me further.
I maybe wrong here but the unions only seem to concern themselves with the top jobs in the top airlines. Are not the majority of pilots employed by the multitude of 'lower' carriers and training organisations? Just an impression I have...maybe misplaced.
Cheers,
Kef.