These tests are not unusual for any professional recruiting filter system. While they may appear to have no relation to the work in question, they are an effective way to select the more intelligent and articulate candidates for interview, which is where the final selection for employment is always made.
From what I saw of the Civil Service tests, they are similar to BA's, and probably a worthwhile practice instrument for BA selection. Other airlines use similar procedures, and, yes, they're about the same level of difficulty as these.
I would not believe anything you hear about candidates failing for being too good at aptitude tests! However, don't believe either that flying is always interesting and absorbing; it has its dull moments like any other job. Fortunately, they are few.
As you are just beginning to find out, unfortunately, it's not enough just to want to fly an aeroplane!
[ 28 September 2001: Message edited by: Scroggs ]