BA cadet lifestyle & working conditions
Hello
Apologies if this is in the wrong forum - hopefully those of you with BA can shed some light for me. I'm intending on applying for the BA FPP scheme that will hopefully be re-opening this year and would like some info on living/working conditions in the company.
Firstly, where do cadets tend to be based during their first few years of flying? I understand that it is most likely to Gatwick, but is it possible to live away from base? Would a 2/3 hour commute be do-able?
Also, what is life really like as a BA pilot? I love flying, and would love to fly as a career instead of a hobby, but I'm also a very keen sportsperson. Does your job completely take over your life or are you able to lead a well balanced and active lifestyle if you so wish?
I presume with more seniority and years under your belt you have more of a say over leave/routes etc than what cadets/FOs do? I'm just afraid that as a cadet on this scheme, BA will effectively have me tied in for the first 7 years due to bond re-payment, and will thus treat me and my fellow cadets as cannon fodder. Pessimistic I know but many Ppruners seem to paint a black picture of the airline industry at the moment and I want to be certain I'm making the right decision.
One final question that I hope will get some positive responses:
Is it all worth it?