london-flyer,
The flybe London Gatwick base is a joy to visit, having some of the nicest, complete professionals you will meet in both the flightdeck and the cabin. The base is 'younger' on average compared to some of the other bases, and it's mainstay year round is the LGW - BHD route; Based aircraft is the BAe 146.
Other routes vary year round, with Summer charter flying down to the med included, whereas in the winter flights to the likes of Dagali/Geilo are a feature. No Air France franchise out of LGW.
Do not mistake it, you will work hard in flybe with some four sector days being divided with extended ground time downroute, and airport standby after an early. The summer brings with it a very busy roster, and you will have to become flexible to change.
The majority of the training is in BHX with only the 'practical' aspects of ditching, fire/smoke and slides normally done in EXT. You will most likely stay at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole during training which is great, although very expensive.
Promotion rate varies on your base, and for LGW I am unsure, but it is offered on course starting date. Hence, if you have ten years flying experience and start on a course after someone with one year, then you will end up flying under them until you are yourself promoted. Then it would just depend on who was rostered as the No1.
All in all, a very nice base at LGW - the people will keep you smiling!
Good Luck,
cheers
starship
