RAAF Flight Screening Programme

[josephfeatherweight]

It's of course very natural to be nervous about FSP, but, as hard as it may seem, try to enjoy it. Because, it is actually tonnes of fun! I remember thinking to myself, "Wow, this is the first time I've gone flying where someone else is paying for it!" And the CT4 is a great little aircraft.
I am not completely familiar with the current order of events, but when I went through the process, FSP was the last hurdle - we did our OSB (I think that's what it is called now?) before being sent off to FSP. A WGCDR told me, "During FSP, you'll get one day off (Sunday in the middle, I think...) and everyone will go to the pub on Saturday night. Don't do it, stay in your room and study."
Respectfully, he was wrong.
Do go to the pub - socialise, meet people, enjoy a beer if you want to (of course you don't have to) and bond with your future course mates. Maybe you'll get a chance to chat to some of the instructors. You are ALWAYS being watched on FSP and everyone wants to fly with a sociable, friendly person who is confident, but not arrogant, around others.
FSP was of course stressful, but also heaps of fun! Enjoy it and good luck!
(Obviously my suggestion of a nudie run was TIC - they don't rate that sort of behaviour these days...)

[CoodaShooda]

A young chap I know is one of the nine members of 239 Course who graduated from 2FTS last week.

Twenty started together at BFTS.

It's been a lot of consistent, hard work for 18 months. However, his observation is that those who spent every waking minute poring over the books and worrying about every little thing are the ones who dropped out.

One of the graduates even managed to succeed while living off base and helping his partner raise their two children.

I'd say my friend would agree with JosephFW's advice.

[josephfeatherweight]

Excellent news, terrific to hear of your mate's success! Don't be put off by the high failure rate, people - the odds are in your favour at the moment - the RAAF/RAN/Army NEED pilots! The guy who graduated whilst helping to care for his 2 kids says much about his character and particularly his partner's.
Awesome.
In my post above, I say "bond with your future course mates" - try to see them as that, even at the early stage of flight screening. The course that sticks together, graduates together.
No room for gouge-hoarders.

[CoodaShooda]

Another excellent point Joe.

The instructors commented that 239 was the most closely bonded course they'd seen.

The guys on course reckon it was due to the presence of several young ladies, whose presence kept the more extreme displays of male competitive aggression under check.

For the record, one of the young ladies has gone to Wedgetails, the other to Hawks.

They reportedly did it by working hard, being themselves and not thinking they had to outmacho the males. At the end of the day, it's a team effort.

[ysdaniels]

Joseph and Cooda,
thanks a lot for the advice/stories. I don't think I'll have a problem with the socialising part haha. I am trying to calm my nerves, but it is a little hard. Everything is on the line for me, and it's the final test. Both of you are right though. My friend and mentor in the RAAF who is a pilot (he went through this process a long time ago though) gave me the exactly same advice. "Relax and enjoy, and you will pass with flying colours."

Thanks again.
I am looking forward to flight screening. :)

[qa169]

Thanks for the advice, with screening only three short weeks away the excitement is at maximum levels.

Can't wait to finally see what all the fuss is about, it sounds like a great taster of life on pilots course.

[Jimmy2]

I first started reading this forum when I began highschool with a passion and dream for one day hopefully becoming a military aviator.

Having gone through the process I can confidently say that the information on this forum is invaluable.

I successfully went through the recruitment process only last year.
My biggest word of advice is to be passionate and determined to reach for your goals (literally reach for the sky). Flight screening was the biggest test for this motivation, dedication and passion some may "claim" they've got. Although stressful, flight screening was the best two weeks of my life. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the opportunity it provides. Nothing beats the feeling of sitting in a bug smasher next to someone who you aspire to be.

The next word of advice is to create a strong bond between your fellow course mates. It's inevitable. You all have a love for aviation and you all want to be flying in the military. Study together, work hard as a team, the instructors notice this!!!!

Lastly, know your stuff. Know all the aircraft across all the services. Know where you can be posted and the squadrons that are associated with these postings. Know the ranks.... The more you know the less stress you'll be for OSB. Get your course mates to test your knowledge!

At the end of the day if it's your dream and passion to fly military aircraft and you can demonstrate a clear learning progression then you'll smash it.

Good luck!

[ysdaniels]

I just got a call from PSA today for the course starting on the 19th/07. I am unsure if I will be able to make it to these dates due to work... does anyone know what happens if you can't make the date they give you? Do I go back to the line (will I be waiting another 5 ~ 6 months?) or will they try and put me in the next available course dates??
Thank you!

[ysdaniels]

scrap that question above,
PSA allowed me to push back to a later date :)

[Slezy9]

Relax and enjoy, and you will pass with flying colours

Haha, dumb advice...

Relaxing on pilots course is a great way to get scrubbed! As for passing with flying colours... How about you just worry about passing, and let the instructors worry about what how you are scoring!

Anyone who is relaxed on course is either an ace or an idiot! And trust me, most people aren't aces!

[Malakor1]

Haha, dumb advice...

Relaxing on pilots course is a great way to get scrubbed! As for passing with flying colours... How about you just worry about passing, and let the instructors worry about what how you are scoring!

Anyone who is relaxed on course is either an ace or an idiot! And trust me, most people aren't aces!

They were talking about flight screening not pilots course. I don't think anybody us under any illusions about that.

[ysdaniels]

As malakor said, I was talking about flight screening, and I know he was just trying to boost confidence when he said that.

[MrKhargify]

Hi All,

I was just wondering what the average waiting time is to get the call for flight screening. I passed my assessment day three months ago with apparently 'flying colours' and I'm applying for the ADFA 2016 intake but I'm yet to hear from PSA. How long did it take you guys to get the call?

Thanks :ok:

[ysdaniels]

MrKhargify,
I had my assessment day around end of Feb, and I got a call to do flight screening for mid July (with about 3 weeks notice). I pushed it back to August though because I couldn't get time off work. I'm DE though.

[MrKhargify]

Thanks for the info ysdaniels. Just looking at the FSP schedule for 2015 there's a lot more DEO courses than there are ADFA ones, with the first one I would of been able to go on running right now; maybe I wasn't competitive enough to be in the top 9 :sad: but it shouldn't be anything to worry about. Interestingly enough, today I got a phone call from DFR (who got a call from PSA) saying I couldn't be selected for a flight screening course at the moment because all of my application forms expired a couple of days ago (automatic after 12 months), so I've resubmitted them all today. Now that I've done that, hopefully I'll get the call sometime around August.

Good luck with yours in August, let us know how it goes :)

[ysdaniels]

Mm I'm not sure if you get picked for flight screening by competitiveness. DFR told me once you pass all the stages leading up to flight screening, everyone gets a go at flight screening and that candidates are picked in the order they complete assessment day (I don't know if this is true. DFR also told me I will sit 3 assessment days and 3 OSBs..)
I was also told there was a huge backlog of applicants waiting to do flight screening from last year (for DEO at least) and that's why the gap between assessment day and flight screening is so long right now.

[MrKhargify]

Oh okay. My case manager is constantly emphasising that flight screening applicants are selected from a pool and only the most competitive get on. It's interesting though, here (http://www.airforce.gov.au/Our-People/Careers/Becoming-a-Pilot/Pilot-Selection-Flight/Selection-for-Flight-Screening-Program/?RAAF-1+ZNDbUWqpkkyLnleSEiHyjR8FuKtGcx) it says applicants compete for a slot, but yet they have a massive backlog instead of selecting the best applicants for the slots.

Oh well, can't worry about it too much. Just gotta wait.

[ysdaniels]

Yea no point worrying about what goes on there.
Just have to prepare as best as we can :)

[finestkind]

it says applicants compete for a slot, but yet they have a massive backlog instead of selecting the best applicants for the slots.

You have lost me here MrKargify.

Applicants compete for a position. Therefore they do select the best applicants. Hence there will be a "backlog" of those who are not very competitive waiting to fill a position.

[herkman]

About the selection for aircrew.

Firstly they know when the training schedule starts and how many slots.

Then they know when bods need to enter.

They also know from previous assessments who is likely to make the grade.

Even allowing for errors and other factors they should be able to pick the students that could be likely to pass.

All this stuffing around that goes on does not portray the fact to new officers is the the selectors on the ball.

Shame that this system does not encourage members of the highest quality to come forward early. Some have been in pool for far too long and there needs to be a system where people who are selected get started, and those that are unlikely to make the grade, so somewhere else to fly.

Had many years of flying with many fine aircrew and they do not deserve to be messed around.

Regards

Col

[finestkind]

Col I am not to certain what you mean. Not trying to be a pain in the proverbial.

Training schedule? I guess you mean pilots course. Yes they do know numbers and start dates.

Previous assessment. I guess you mean flight screening. Yes they have graded the bods and have a fair idea of who presents with a fair chance of making it.

Picking students that are likely to pass. Well yes that’s what they aim to do but you cannot lead a horse to water and make it drink. I had two chaps on my pilots course who self-suspended before going solo. Doesn’t matter how good you are if you don’t apply yourself you won’t make it and applying yourself runs in parallel with motivation. If you run out of steam you won’t apply yourself which means you are out.

I am not to certain how the system doesn’t encourage members of the highest quality to come forward means. Are you referring to ADF members or are you meaning the bods off the street. Do they need to make it more attractive for bods off the street. Yep. Typical ADF is starting again to hurt in all areas let alone pilot due lack of applicant. Do they need to make it more attractive for serving members. I don’t know. In my time with flying pay and extra leave it was a pretty attractive option compared to other mustering’s.

“Some have been in the pool for far too long” Col if you are selected at FSP yes you go in the pool and the best get picked up so I do not understand your line of thought. On the one hand you appear to be saying they are not taking the best people and on the other saying the best people stay in the pool.

Your last line points to serving members being mucked about. As you well know that’s what the ADF does best.

[MrKhargify]

finestkid I was referencing the current FSP schedule for 2015 posted by Defence (which can be found here (http://www.airforce.gov.au/Our-People/Careers/Becoming-a-Pilot/Pilot-Selection-Flight/Flight-Screening-Program-Schedule/?RAAF-e9g2z8vIikaumcv6ylDo1q9luRRCcBKo)), more specifically the courses at the beginning of the year which say 'OVERFLOW' in the comments. I might be misinterpreting what they mean by overflow as I take it to mean the remaining candidates from last year. But clearly the website states it is a competitive pool for flight screening and so I'm probably wrong in my assumption.

[finestkind]

Col, spoke to my mate and he clarified things.

The overflow is for ADFA. There are way more ADFA applicants than there are spots. So a competitive process. If an ADFA bod missed out and they still wanted to get into ADFA they had to go through the whole process again at recruiting. To alleviate this, PSF has allocated a couple of courses for ADFA at the start of the year for the next year. This does not mean it’s still not competitive as a lot still won’t be offered a spot.

[Thakis]

Does anyone know if they accept candidates with amblyopia?

Thanks in advance.

[fly_fast_fly_hard]

Hi Thakis,

Looking through HLTHMAN, Vol 1, Chap 6 ANNEX K System specific reasons for rejection - Visual system. Ser. 5.4,You may be acceptable for class 3R or 1 if you do not have significant amblyopia and you meet visual requirements. If you have monocular vision for any reason, you will deemed class 4 and unfit for duty in the military.

I am by no means an expert, and there are pages of reasons for rejection, so don't take my word 100%.

I hope it is not serious mate.

FFFH

[fly_fast_fly_hard]

Oh, and is there anyone on here attending flight screening on the 30th Aug?

FFFH

[philk12]

Anyone scheduled for the August 23rd - September 5th course?

[ysdaniels]

Good luck in your flight screening on the 30th FFFH.
Anyone here going to flight screening on the 9th of August?
It'd be good to get to know each other before we head up :)

[fly_fast_fly_hard]

Cheers ysdaniels, good luck with yours! send me a PM with how you go. :)

Philk12 - we may cross paths. all the best for yours!

[Ashton88]

Hi all,

First of all, this is a fantastic thread and thanks to all that contribute to it.

I was wondering if anyone would be able to share some solid leadership examples that the army appreciates. I've seen a few people get rejected because of a lack of leadership qualities and hope to ensure that I have this adequately covered before I apply.

Cheers,

Ash

[fly_fast_fly_hard]

Hi Ashton,

Leadership in the army is something that is learnt and fine tuned over a very long time. As long as you have the base qualities there, then they can teach you other aspects to help you grow your leadership style into how you want to lead.

Some qualities that I think they would like to see are as follows:

Confidence - They will want to see that you do not shy away and you can get in amongst the group and contribute.

Decisiveness - They will want to see that you can make a decision (either right or wrong).

Ability to listen - As a leader you will have to listen to others to be able to make informed decisions. Listen to your subordinates and commanders. You will use that to grow yourself and your team.

Adaptability - There will always be situations where things do not go according to plan, be flexible, stay calm and re-assess.

These are the main qualities that I think make a good leader. There are many types of leaders, you have to find the style that you think would best suit you! use your strengths and work on your weaknesses.

There is an ARMY LEADERSHIP MANUAL (ALM). I forget the publication number and cant find it on Google but if you type in 'Australian army leadership manual' and select the top result, its not a bad document. If you can get a hold of the ALM it will tell you everything you need to know about what the army is after in a leader.

I hope that helps :)
FFFH

[left shoe]

Hi All,
Thanks for all the information in this thread.
Just wondering if anyone knows when BFTS (and possibly Flight Screening) will be moving to East Sale? I'm not sure if the bid is all finalised with the "Team 21" and when they will become operational.
Appreciate any information.
Cheers.

[Fieldmouse]

assuming it is heading back to Sale, the existing contract has till mid 2017 to run at Tamworth. Throw in some teething issues, instructor recruitment issues, hardware supply issue and infrastructure dramas and I think the next 3 years of courses at least, will be in sunny Tamworth

[left shoe]

Thanks for clarifying that Field Mouse.

[PilotJimmy347]

Hi People

Just got a phone call to go to flight screening in late August due to someone pulling out. I had to decline as I couldn't get time off work that quickly.

Has anyone been in the same situation and still gotten another offer in the future?

Pilotjimmy347

[fly_fast_fly_hard]

Hi Pilotjimmy347

If you got a call as a reserve, then I am sure you would be quite competitive in the list they have. If you could not get time off work, then that is something outside of your control, they would not ping you for that (at least I would hope). keep your phone on you, coz if I was a betting man, they will be giving you a call to fill one of the October DEO courses (maybe warn out work because there are only 3 DEO courses for the rest of the year).

The schedule can be found here: Pilot Selection Agency Flight Screening Program Schedule - Royal Australian Air Force (http://www.airforce.gov.au/Our_People/Careers/Becoming_a_Pilot/Pilot_Selection_Agency/Flight_Screening_Program_Schedule/?RAAF-e9g2z8vIikaumcv6ylDo1q9luRRCcBKo)

All the best mate, hope you get that call!!!!!

FFFH

[PilotJimmy347]

Thanks FFFH

Just took your advice and gave intent for leave for all spots in October.

I hope I get another call up, I'm 28 now and this has been a dream of mine ( along with everyone else here lol) for years.

I know there's plenty of info in this thread regarding flight screening but I would really appreciate any further info. Especially in regards to some handy hints and what would be the best to study up on.

I'll let you all know if I get a call up as I would like to get to know those who are on the same course. It sounds as its really beneficial to get to know each other quickly and work as a team.

We've all got the same goals!!!!

[MrKhargify]

After waiting 6 months I just got the call for course from the 19th of September to the 3rd of October! Super excited. If anyone else is on this course send me a message, I'd love to get to know you beforehand :)

[PilotJimmy347]

Hey Mr Khargify

Congrats mate, definitely worth the wait.

I'll be up there at that time for the AVWO testing though won't be going up for Pilot Selection until the 18th of October.

Just found out today about both, really stoked and couldn't ask for better news on a Friday.

Best of luck mate, feel free to PM if you like.


Pilotjimmy347

[jslim1008]

Hi, I'm new to this forum :)
Currently in Year 12, preparing for end of school. so much stress
So I have a question about the process.
I got recommended for Flight Screening like in end of April.
The guy at the Parramatta Medical said I was fit for flight screening but at the same time I still had a Dermatology report pending (nothing serious).
Since then, I didn't get any call or notice from the Defence, but only requesting medical document (that dermatology report).
I'm so confused, was the guy at the Medical in err when he said I was cleared for FS?

[MrKhargify]

Congratulations PilotJimmy!

You're going to be busy studying and going up and down from Tamworth. Hopefully I see you up there sometime. Good luck with all of your study and OSB if I don't see you around :ok:

[MrKhargify]

Jslim,

All pilot applicants have a 'tick box' in their application which says "Fit for board?" and once that is ticked (normally after assessment day) you are able to go on board. This is the case with all pilot applicants as they are all put in medical class 3R (or 3M I can't recall) pending optometrist and dental clearances. I'm sure this is the same case for you, and doubt that the dermatology report will hold you back from FSP. If you're unsure it's best to just give them a ring :ok:

[jslim1008]

Jslim,

All pilot applicants have a 'tick box' in their application which says "Fit for board?" and once that is ticked (normally after assessment day) you are able to go on board. This is the case with all pilot applicants as they are all put in medical class 3R (or 3M I can't recall) pending optometrist and dental clearances. I'm sure this is the same case for you, and doubt that the dermatology report will hold you back from FSP. If you're unsure it's best to just give them a ring :ok:

Thanks a lot!
I gave them a ring and they said they are only waiting on the Cardiology report(?). And all the rest like Ophthalmology and dental reports are all cleared.
It's taking them an awful long time.
I hope I get a call before next year since I'm an ADFA applicant!

[MrKhargify]

No worries mate.

I'm pretty sure the cardiology report is when the the cardiologist looks at your results from the ECG test and says it's all good. Mine was done pretty quick (within a few days) so I'm not sure about that sorry. Hopefully you get the call before the end of the year!

[OrangePotatoCat]

Long time forum watcher only just decided to sign up as I Have burning questions now.

When you say you call up is that just general DFR or do you have a contact for someone down at Tamworth?

[jslim1008]

No worries mate.

I'm pretty sure the cardiology report is when the the cardiologist looks at your results from the ECG test and says it's all good. Mine was done pretty quick (within a few days) so I'm not sure about that sorry. Hopefully you get the call before the end of the year!

Yeah I found out the problem. For some reason the ECG machine was at fault and the report I handed in was faulty and they thought I had some sort of Heart Problem (RBBB) I got it checked and sending In another reports.

Perhaps that's why I wasn't getting the call because of ECG

[jslim1008]

Long time forum watcher only just decided to sign up as I Have burning questions now.

When you say you call up is that just general DFR or do you have a contact for someone down at Tamworth?

It's just standard DFR medical department. My local one is Parramatta.

[FlyingDr95]

Hey guys, long time follower of this thread - it has some fantastic information in it.

I recently completed DEO flight screening and have been recommended, but I'm a little unsure of the process from now on. I was under the impression that offers are due to be coming out in November, however yesterday I had a call from DFR saying my file had been distributed for Air Force to look at. Is this just the normal process, or have they distributed my file early for some reason?

Thanks!

[MrKhargify]

Yeah I found out the problem. For some reason the ECG machine was at fault and the report I handed in was faulty and they thought I had some sort of Heart Problem (RBBB) I got it checked and sending In another reports.

That probably did it!

When you say you call up is that just general DFR or do you have a contact for someone down at Tamworth?

Yeah just calling up your local DFR who are handling your case.

[WedgetailEng]

Hi FlyingDr95

My understanding of the process is all 3 services will have a look at your file when it is in the distribution pool to determine if you are fit for entry. In some cases, you may get recommended at Flight Screening but you may be deemed unsuitable for entry into some services depending on how well you did during the application process. For example, one service may put more emphasis on flying ability, and one may also prefer leadership skills. If you were good in one area and lacked in another, a service may basically rule you out of the pool so the people at Pilot Selection Flight don't send your file when the asked by the people in Canberra, who ultimately select the candidates. So when they say that it is being looked at, it may be this preliminary review by a service. I may be wrong here, but from my experience this is the process. Also, usually you will get the call from the people at Flight Screening to send your file away for selection, not DFR. Hope this helps

[FlyingDr95]

Hi WegdetailEng,

Thanks, that would make sense, although don't they simply use the scores for that - e.g. if you had a score below 4.0/5 then the Air Force wouldn't consider you, however so long as it's above 2.5/5 then the other two services will still consider you? Or is this an additional process on top of that?

[MrKhargify]

Hi WegdetailEng,

Thanks, that would make sense, although don't they simply use the scores for that - e.g. if you had a score below 4.0/5 then the Air Force wouldn't consider you, however so long as it's above 2.5/5 then the other two services will still consider you? Or is this an additional process on top of that?

Yeah, so upon completion of the flight screening aspect of selection flight you will be rated out of 5. It's basically a score of your suitability and ability to complete flight training, however it's not set in stone as to whether or not a certain service will take you just because of your rating. This is because they will also look at the rest of your dossier, including everything from OSB and assessment day.

[PilotJimmy347]

Good luck to everyone who started the most recent flight screening yesterday.

A once in a lifetime opportunity which you have all deserved.

I'm sure recommendations will by flying from OSB!!!!!!

[FlyingDr95]

Yeah, so upon completion of the flight screening aspect of selection flight you will be rated out of 5. It's basically a score of your suitability and ability to complete flight training, however it's not set in stone as to whether or not a certain service will take you just because of your rating. This is because they will also look at the rest of your dossier, including everything from OSB and assessment day.

Ok that makes sense, thanks!

[ProudKerman]

Hey Guys

Might not be the best place to be posting it but oh well.
I've just been accepted on the OCT 4-17 Flight Screening.
The schedule says Oct3 but Oct 4 is a Sunday which most start on, will call them and clarify tomorrow.
Is there any chance I will be accepted into ADFA by next year or will it more likely be 2017?
Also if anyone else is going on the screening chuck us a PM :)

Any advice aswell cause I'm not keen on reading 146 pages of thread lol

Thanks guys
:ok:

[MrKhargify]

Congratulations on getting selected for flight screening!

I've just been accepted on the OCT 4-17 Flight Screening.
The schedule says Oct3 but Oct 4 is a Sunday which most start on, will call them and clarify tomorrow.

Unless something crazy has happened then you will arrive on Saturday the 3rd and begin ground school on Sunday the 4th.

Is there any chance I will be accepted into ADFA by next year or will it more likely be 2017?

If you are competitive enough you will be selected for ADFA 2016, if not then you will remain in the pool for 12 months.

Any advice aswell cause I'm not keen on reading 146 pages of thread lol

Hardwork and determination are two things that are going to get you selected for ADF pilot. You've got plenty of time to trawl through it all, it's definitely worth it. I'm attending flight screening on the 19th of September to the 3rd so if we run into each other on our last/first day I'll see if I have any tips for you :ok:

[OrangePotatoCat]

Im on the same flight screening 4th - 17th of October :D

[MrKhargify]

The RAAF just announced that BFTS will be relocated to RAAF Base East Sale, and that Lockheed Martin have taken over from BAE Systems.

The Minister for Defence, the Honourable Kevin Andrews MP is joined by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, the Honourable Darren Chester MP and the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Leo Davies, AO, CSC at RAAF Base East Sale to announce that Lockheed Martin Australia has been selected by Defence as the preferred tenderer for the new Australian Defence Force Pilot Training System, subject to satisfactory contract negotiations.
As part of the AIR5428 Pilot Training System project, the PC-21 will replace Air Force’s current PC-9/A and CT-4B aircraft, and will be based at RAAF Base East Sale in Victoria and RAAF Base Pearce in Western Australia. Although the Pilatus PC-21 is a key element of the pilot training system, it is only one part of the pilot training system. The new system, with an advanced aircraft, state of the art simulation, and an electronic learning environment, will be able to train more people faster and to a higher standard.
The new system will ensure undergraduate pilots develop the necessary knowledge and skills prior to progressing onto advanced military aircraft such as the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter, and MRH-90 helicopter. The first two PC-21 aircraft will arrive in Australia in mid 2017.

Exciting news!

[Spider01]

hi all,

Any tips for Assessment Day? My 'not recommended for 12 months' freeze is almost up and this is my last shot. Ive opened up Army Pilot as well because some of my main motivation to join is the leadership opportunities and the flying experience. I feel like i have made myself a competitive candidate (held two jobs simultaneously for a year, coaching, playing sport, studying at uni, volunteering, flying and increasing my fitness) but i am less confident that i will be able to sell myself and demonstrate my motivations and achievements. The guidance i received from this thread previously was invaluable and any tips for getting recommended at assessment day are highly appreciated!

Cheers,

Tom

[ProudKerman]

Awesome :) I'll see you there :ok:
Anything in particualar you're doing to prepare.
I got told to do more leadership so I'm reading a few books. Also working on my improv speaking and maybe a little flight training for 1 or 2 hours to go with my sim stuff.

[PilotJimmy347]

Hi Spider01

It sounds like your doing everything well. I don't know your exact circumstances but just make sure you've nailed anything which they wanted you to do since you last attended.

Make sure you practice some questions with a friend and even get your friend to ask you some totally random questions just to practice answering things that you may not have ever been asked.

This thread is incredible and I've only gotten to where I am (FSP in October) by the information provided here.

The best advice I could give is to just pick up on a few things and not try and read everything.

I'm sure you'll do great mate, let us know how you go

James
Pilotjimmy347

[ProudKerman]

So we've got OrangepotatoeCat PilotJimmy and myself going to PSF in Oct :)

[ysdaniels]

Hi Tom,
Yea like James already said, do some practice questions, make sure you know all the knowledge stuff 100%. If you don't you won't be able to be confident in the interview. Know exactly why you want to join, and when given the opportunity, demonstrate the officer/leadership qualities through examples from your past.
Other than that, just relax and be confident, and be yourself (easier said than done I know, esp in an interview).

Good luck buddy.

[ProudKerman]

So this may seam silly but what do you take to Flight Screening they said bring formal shirt and tie sort of stuff, will this style be worn everyday? I was expecting the JI to have a list of stuff to bring but nothing :/
I better way to phrase it may be what did you guys take to Flight Screening and if you could do it again what would you bring or not bring? Like how much down time is there, I'm expecting not much amongst all the studying but should I bring a book or something or a laptop?

This may just be me over worrying, for lack of a better term. lol

Pretty nervous but excited at the same time.

[MrKhargify]

ProudKerman, I'm wondering the same thing. I'm taking a few shirts and a number of ties just to be safe, but I also asked a RAAF pilot what it was like and he said that yeah, a lot of the time is wearing formal clothes. I'm also taking a fair number of casual clothes to wear under the beautiful orange prison suit, and my laptop for offline study.

Yeah the nerves are coming now! I'm off early Saturday morning :eek:

[philk12]

I came back from Flight Screening on the 5th, take enough business style shirts, pants and ties for two weeks. You'll wear it almost all the time you're there. Also I'd definitely bring a book or two, there's more spare time than you'd expect.

[Spider01]

Does anyone know if there is a mid year intake into the IOC at East Sale next year? I'd like to spend the summer getting my Bronze medallion and volunteering at my local life saving club. Would it be worth holding off my Assessment Day until early next year in order to give myself a boost in the areas of volunteering, fitness and team exposure?
I know my posts are pretty much all asking a similar question but i value the input of the people on here very highly. I am acutely aware that this is my last crack at making the grade. This is my first port of call as many of you are living or have lived the dream of being an ADF Pilot.

Cheers

Tom

[jslim1008]

Hi guys, hope all of your applications are going through well.
I've posted before regarding medical assessment.
It looks like one little cardio report is holding me back, it wont be cleared until next week.
Any ideas on the chances of me being scheduled for the last ADFA Flight screening on November?
Just to clarify, the PSA won't call you up for Flight screening if Aviation Medical is not cleared right?

Thanks guys!

[ysdaniels]

Hi jslim,
I think it depends on what the medical issue is. I had an 'issue' with my eyes and was class 4 at one point. However, the medical team at DFR was quite adamant that there was nothing wrong with my eyes, so they told me they will push for me go and do flight screening regardless. Although, I got a note from my GP to clear up the issue and AVMED put me back into class 1, and this happened before I went up for flight screening anyway. So it really depends how serious the issue is and what the medical team at DFR thinks (they were fighting really hard for my case against AVMED).

Good luck :)

[jslim1008]

Thanks for that,
It is a really stupid issue. There was an error on my ECG report, and I just need Cardiologist to confirm my heart is fine. I'm waiting on that report...
It will be handed in next week.

Do you think there is enough time for me to make it into the November Flight Screening?

[PilotJimmy347]

Hi mate,

Best bet is to ask your case manager at DFR and let them know exactly what is going on so they are aware of each of the steps you have taken. Best of luck with it mate and remember it can be a long process but every dream has hurdles.


Pilotjimmy347

[ProudKerman]

So Spider I'm not sure of your circumstances but I went for Direct and got knocked back because of lack of life experience and what not ( I had just turned 18) He waived the 12 month wait and said to come back for ADFA and I'd have the best chance, I got through doing that. If you're set on Direct maybe taking the extra 6 months to gain life experience maybe holiday on your own, live away from home or even just your volunteering might help.
Ultimately it's what you think is best but they want people with life experience for Direct no doubt about that. :)

And thanks philk thats exactly what I wanted to know. Also I've sent you a PM :)

[PilotJimmy347]

Hi guys and gals,

Anyone else going up for FSP DEO on the 18th of October 2015?

I think this would be a good time to get to know each other a bit and get some numbers before we head up. Up in the sky!

Pilotjimmy347

[ProudKerman]

So when you are flying are you flying in your business clothes and shoes?

[ysdaniels]

ProudKerman,
You get a locker room where you keep your flying suit and some comfortable shoes, and you change into it before you fly. Depending on the weather you can choose to wear extra clothing under the suit, whether it be a shirt, sweater, etc.

[PilotJimmy347]

Hey mate

What type of shoes are you flying in, business shoes or joggers or are you bringing some other type of shoes?

Pilot jimmy 347

[ysdaniels]

Hey James,
definitely not business shoes! Probably joggers or something casual that's comfortable with thin soles. I have a pair of Vibrams, extremely comfortable and feels like I'm barefoot. Might use those, but they wrap around my toes like gloves so looks a little weird.

[Azraeil]

Long time lurker first time poster. Congrats to all the people receiving FSP allocations recently.

I am excited to say myself that I just received a phone call informing me that I had secured a spot for the 25th Oct block. Would love to exchange details with any lurkers/posters out there that are also on that block or any of the adjacent overlapping blocks.

Thanks to all the contributors providing very useful information, advice and insight into the selection process and required knowledge and personal attributes. It certainly helped me throughout my application.

[ysdaniels]

Hey Azraeil,
Pilotjimmy and I will be up there from the 18th to the 31st :)

[PilotJimmy347]

As Ysdaniels mentioned we'll both be up there on the 18th so a week before. I'm sure we'll run into you while we're there.

Can't wait for us all to be doing some exciting, challenging and rewarding flying.

Pilotjimmy347

[Azraeil]

Yes it certainly will be a very exciting couple of weeks. Hopefully we can cross paths and compare notes.

[Cj7193]

Hi everyone, I'm relatively new to this site and was extremely curious to know anything about what I'm (hopefully) getting myself into. I have recently graduated from Year 12 in QLD, with an OP 2. I studied Physics, Chemistry, Math B, Math C, Graphics and English and received a standard A Grade in all of them. I have been a Student Leader for the school in both Year 11 and 12 and have also attended many community meeting and events. I have no medical conditions, only a minor case of asthma when I was 6 months old and have been cleared when I was 5, never had an asthma attack or even come close. Now, I consider myself eligible for this role and I know that it's one of the hardest and competitive jobs in Australia. The only thing I believe is holding me back Is my eyesight. Now, my eyes aren't bad at all, I was given glasses when I was 14 and never worn them as I can see fine, it's just when I put my glasses on things appear a TINY bit clearer, I was wondering if I would apply first and ask my RAAF recruiter at my YOU session about Lazer eye surgery and if I am still suitable for the role of a pilot. I Honestly do not care (if I was chosen) which aircraft I would fly, I am extremely interested in how a general air craft flies and would be over the moon if I was picked to fly any sort of air craft in the RAAF. I would really appreciate it if anyone could help and give honest answers.

[jslim1008]

Hi,
I can help you with eyesight thingy, as I was really curious as well.
They don't mind if you wear a glasses as long as the lense you wear can correct it to 20/20 vision. Also they take other factors into consideration as well, like your peripherals, close ups and color vision etc.

As long as you have excellent eyesight with the correctable lenses, you will be good, although I'm not sure about getting like fast jet roles with lenses.

[jslim1008]

ysdaniels,
Thanks for that reply

How long was it before you got the Letter from the PSA after getting your medicals all cleared?
Mine is all cleared now and I'm just hoping I can get a schedule for ADFA screening at November

Thanks!

[ysdaniels]

Hi jslim,
I think it was about 3 weeks? but the team at DFR told me that my medical issue shouldn't delay the time between my assessment day and flight screening (they may have been wrong). They said I still go and do flight screening as if I normally would and if my medicals don't get cleared, then I just won't get an offer even if I get recommended.

[jslim1008]

I thought that as well. But, Defence Recruiting sent an email to all of those pending for FSP telling people to send the medical documents in ASAP as positions are filling in quickly, so I'm assuming it is the issue.
Especially it was heart examination that had to be reviewd... Pretty serious stuff lol.

Thanks for the info!

[PilotJimmy347]

Hi all

JSlim- Make sure you call and keep in contact with recruiting, they handle a lot of applicants and really appreciate the extra effort candidates put in especially by ensuring they have all info and documents in quickly.

Do we have any other Ppruners going to FSP on the 18th? Would really love to get to know anyone who is coming up with the other guys that are on here.

Happy fun flying

Pilotjimmy347

[Mickda]

Hello everyone!

Another hopeful applicant here looking to introduce myself.

Firstly a big thanks to everyone who has contributed to this wealth of information! :ok:

At the moment I'm waiting for PSF to give me the go for flight screening. My file was sent over on the 3rd of September so I'm not confident I'll get a spot until next year, with only 3 DEO courses remaining for this one according to the schedule.

So until then I'll be doing whatever I can to maximise my chances.

Is there anyone else out there in the same position as me? I'm very keen to network and share knowledge.

And congratulations to the guys who got on the course for the 25th!

[MrKhargify]

Well that was fun! I went up for flight screening on the 19th of September and only got back on the 10th of October, so I spent 3 weeks there. Unfortunately I got sick at the end of the first week (the only symptom was blocked sinuses...), and so I was grounded. PSA then had to decide whether or not to a) send me home (what they normally do) or b) keep me for an extra week (apparently, something they had never done before). They chose to keep me back and I was the first flight screener to ever be back coursed, it was awesome fun staying there for an extra week. At the end of it all I came away with a high recommendation which I'm absolutely stoked about! Now I'm just waiting until mid December to hopefully get a job offer.


It really is what you expect, they give you plenty of opportunities to shine and it's up to you to seize those to put you ahead of everyone else.

[TSRABECOMING]

Anyone go to flight screening during nov? I will go during this period.

[PilotJimmy347]

Good luck to all going to FSP in November.

An offer is just around the corner!!!!!!!

Pilotjimmy347

[jslim1008]

MrKhargify

Wow, what a ride! 3weeks!(no puns intended :ok:)
But srsly, congratulation, and respect for pulling off the high rec. even through the sickness!
I hope you get the offer for next year entry!

[Mickda]

Hi JetX, I don't think you should be too worried about the RAAF age limit.

If I remember correctly one of the aircrew I work with was 29 at the time of starting course at BFTS. He said that a waiver process happened in the background without him having to make any input.

I've also heard that they've taken candidates as old as 32 but I've got no evidence to back that up, just rumours.

[PilotJimmy347]

Yep greatly said, your age won't be a factor in gaining a position.

If they see potential they will want you on the ADF team.

Might be an idea to call DFR and speak to them about it or even better speak to some in service pilots who could let you know.

Best of luck.

Pilotjimmy347

[qa169]

Hello again!

Its been a while since my last post due to school and such, today I received an email explaining that,

"your application is being seen by the Directorate Personnel for RAAF for consideration"

Read through some of the previous posts but couldn't get a clear picture of what this means. Does anyone know what this entails and If I should be getting exited yet?

Thanks

[DaveyJones]

Hi JetX, there have been plenty of experienced guys go through flight screening and on to have good RAAF careers. You are definitely not the first and won't be the last. Some are flying fighters with the majority flying the heavier iron. Ironically some are flying the aircraft they left the airlines to get away from, all be it less airtime and more ground work per flight hour. However the generally find these airborne hours more rewarding and varied.

I have come across some guys that have seen the reality and realised that it isn't what they hoped and are now trying to go back, however they are now stuck with a minimum period of service to complete. I hope these guys stick it out and see that all is not bad and it can be a very rewarding career with many varied challenges. What airline pilot doesn't want to fly a 737 thirty feet from another airliner- or very shortly at 200' ASL. Please keep your motivation in check as it will be tested when the log book hours slow down. Be happy that one hour in a Hornet is worth 100 in the 787 when it comes to enjoyment. After all 250 fast jet hours a year is flying everyday. 550 maritime in the P3 or P8 when you get there, is more sporadic, but being below safety height at night chasing a nuclear sub is very challenging!

I wish you all the best and hope that you are one of those guys that should have joined the airforce in the first place!

[MrKhargify]

I would say that it's a good sign, in fact quite a good one, but it's nothing definite yet. You're pretty much in the home stretch of getting an offer.

[josh676]

Good thread, I have managed to get through pages 1 - 80 and 100 - 140, so a few more to go!

For those of us who didn't apply ourselves so well in school, but have gone on to do a number of Diplomas, Cert IV's etc, does DFR take this into account when considering the education requirements?

I am looking at doing the maths and physics pre requisites early next year, while working through some of the hints given in this thread, for an application around September...

Also, age, I am 27 in a week, how noncompetitive would this make me for the RAAF stream? The 27.5 age mark seems to be marked a fair bit on the DFR page.

Anyway, I'll keep reading, I just haven't seen my specific question about education requirements.

[loop it]

Has anyone had a broken bone, that was fixed with a pin or nail, and still been accepted into the ADF as aircrew ?
Update: I have spoken to the medical department and no. Defence will not accept anyone with a nail in place , aircrew or otherwise...
Its a shame I made it through assessment day and was recommended pending a specialist report on my nail. Guess I'll have to have it removed ... for anyone in the same boat after you have the piece removed you have a mandatory 6month recovery period before they will re open your application .

[jslim1008]

Guys, do you know how long it usually takes to hear from Canberra regarding a medical waiver?
It turns out my file was on hold due to ECG report (don't listen to what the Enlistment Coordinator says, if you encounter a problem with any of the following, dental, ECG, Eyesight, your application will be delayed) and after the review at AvMed, they have sent it for a waiver and I'm now placed as Class 4W and unfit for board until waiver is granted.

But I did manage to contact Tamworth Flight Screening Board, if you want the number just call up 6760 7677 and ask for RAAF flight screening, and they said once the waiver is granted, they will put me for January flight screening schedule, but in the meantime, my file has been returned to recruiting.

I hope this helps anyone in a similar situation and for future applicants who may encounter a similar problem!

[FlyLowFlySlow]

First post so I'd like to offer my thanks to everyone who has contributed to this thread over the last 14 years. It has been a wealth of knowledge throughout my application.

jslim,
I'm in much the same situation as you at the moment. Assessment day passed but now awaiting a medical waiver for mild astigmatism. It's only been a week so I'd be interested to hear if and when you get a response. Hopefully it will get squared away before then end of the year.

FLFS

[Malakor1]

Has anyone had a broken bone, that was fixed with a pin or nail, and still been accepted into the ADF as aircrew ?
Update: I have spoken to the medical department and no. Defence will not accept anyone with a nail in place , aircrew or otherwise...
Its a shame I made it through assessment day and was recommended pending a specialist report on my nail. Guess I'll have to have it removed ... for anyone in the same boat after you have the piece removed you have a mandatory 6month recovery period before they will re open your application .


Hey there,

I have metal in my forearm and jaw and I got through and am currently serving.. I had to fight it but I sorted it out, things may have changed the last couple of years but continue to make enquiries if you have to with your medical department at your dfr. Worst case you get the metal removed and wait out.

[FlyingDr95]

Hi Ojscott, unfortunately I'm not. I was just wondering are you DEO or ADFA?

[FlyingDr95]

Awesome, congrats! Did you just get an offer recently?

[MrKhargify]

Congratulations oj! Representing us Tasmanian's well ;)

[loop it]

Malakor1 thanks for the confidence boost !!! I am going to have the metal removed and wait the 6 months then my application will be re activated and hopefully I will be sent to flight screening... I hope the OSB see this as determination and motivation, not a liability ?
Congratulations to everyone who has made it and thank you to everyone who has contributed to this thread, it is an invaluable source of information !

[WedgetailEng]

So does that mean that offers have started coming out for November?
Last time I talked to Pilot Selection, they said there was going to be a large intake towards the end of November for all three services.
Has anyone else started getting calls from them?

[FlyingDr95]

WedgetailEng - I was under the impression that they were coming out sometime around this week or next week, but I haven't heard anyone else getting a DEO offer yet - although maybe I'm just talking to all the people not getting selected haha. Are you waiting for an offer too?

[FlyLowFlySlow]

18 months at RMC and then get told you're not being allocated to AAAvn, but still have a ROSO to complete with another corps. Makes you wonder why aspiring ADF pilots would roll the dice with the ARA if there was no guarantee of being accepted into pilot training.

Can anyone else shed some light on this "provisional" aviation cadetship?

[FlyingDr95]

Hi Rhino91, did you get a call or the letter or both?
I think it just means you have to pass RMC to get in, rather than getting in no matter what, but that's pretty common sense. I was under the impression the cadetship was a guarantee too. Maybe call them up and ask?

[Rhino91]

Thanks for the reply FlyingDr95. Hoping that is what it means. I received a call from PSA about a 2 weeks ago and a call from DFR followed by a letter via email today.

Cheers

[ryano]

I would certainly clarify the terms of your Letter of Appointment before accepting it, particularly in relation to the meaning of "provisional". Current Army policy states that an Aviation Cadetship is an avenue for entry into the Army whereby the applicant has successfully completed the testing required and is pre-selected to Army Aviation. There is no mention of a Cadetship being provisional, however the Defence Personnel Regulations and subsequent Defence policy does permit applicants to be provisionally appointed.
The terms contained within your letter appear to not preselect you to Army Aviation. A provisional Cadetship therefore essentially means nothing - you will be competing for Aviation in the same way every other graduate competes for their desired Corps. Even upon successful completion of RMC, if there are not sufficient positions within the Corps you will be assigned elsewhere based off Service needs. Your only avenue back into Aviation would be to commence a Corps transfer. Lord knows when, and if, you would be succesful. This is a substantial risk that you would accept and something you must carefully consider. It is also unlikely that you will become aware of posting positions until quite late in your RMC training, making resigning impossible until you have served out your ROSO for the RMC component.
This risk cannot be underestimated. I have personally seen it occur and it is devastating to the individuals concerned. The most likely scenario for your situation is that several of your possible classmates are on a normal Cadetship. You have been offered a provisional Cadetship and will be selected to Aviation in the event that one of them fails, is back classed, resigns, is injured etc. If none of the above occurs you may not have a position to be posted to.
If Army Aviation is your thing, I highly recommend the GSO stream. Everyone will give you their two cents worth but the simple fact is that you have substantially more career choices later on. And yes, staying in a flying position is indeed one of these. I would however, strongly advise you to clarify why your Cadetship is provisional and what you would have to do to be offered an unconditional Cadetship. Get absolutely everything in writing and then keep copies of it all in the most safe place possible.
Finally, out of curiosity, what is the ROSO/IMPS stated in the letter?

[FlyingDr95]

Either way congratulations, that's awesome!!
I guess this means I've missed out on this round of offers, absolutely gutted 😭

[MrKhargify]

FlyingDr there might be more to come! 2 days left in the week.

[FlyingDr95]

Would they all come out at the same time though? :(

[WedgetailEng]

I've contacted Flight Screening, apparently Army and Navy offers have gone out already, but RAAF offers are still to come. Should know by the end of next week for sure if you are going to get an offer.

[FlyingDr95]

Thanks WedgetailEng. Apparently one of my friends got a RAAF offer last week, so are you sure that's the case?

[WedgetailEng]

Thanks WedgetailEng. Apparently one of my friends got a RAAF offer last week, so are you sure that's the case?

I called them on Wednesday afternoon and that's that's what they said. Did he get the offer after Wednesday? Or maybe they don't call everyone at once. Just thought I would relay the same information that I received from them to everyone else that is anxious for an offer

[FlyingDr95]

I'm not too sure but I'll ask her. She said apparently each offer takes half a day to prepare, so they may still be more to come.

I also contacted DFR and she also said Army and Navy had started coming out but RAAF hadn't come out yet, so maybe the East Coast ones have started coming out but the WA ones haven't, who knows.

For everyone else reading this waiting for an offer - there still may be hope!

[FlyingDr95]

Apparently she heard over a week ago, are you sure they weren't referring to ADFA RAAF offers rather than DEO?

[lightningstriker]

I know someone who got DEO for RAAF offer given on the 11th/11. Hope this helps.

[FlyingDr95]

Thanks Lightningstriker, they must be coming out already.
Do you have any idea what state he/she is in?

[lightningstriker]

Thanks Lightningstriker, they must be coming out already.
Do you have any idea what state he/she is in?

Victoria. But I don't imagine which state makes a difference as my understanding is all dossiers selected for an offer at flight screening get sent together to Canberra for the final approval. Then filtered through to your DFR.
If you call PSA they will tell you if they have sent your file to Canberra for selection. Its not always the case that they give you an update call.

[MrKhargify]

For the ADFA guys, it looks like the people selected for Army have been getting phone calls from PSA saying they're going to get an offer (assuming they achieve the school results). I'm assuming that Navy will be next and then Air Force.

[FlyingDr95]

Ok thanks Lightningstriker. I was only wondering as I have been in contact with the Perth DFR and was told RAAF offers weren't out yet, so I was thinking that possibly there were some differences between states.

I gave PSA a call and my file has been sent to Canberra for RAAF selection, apparently it was distributed back in August and PSA hasn't heard anything since. Do you think that's a good or bad sign?

[MrKhargify]

The people in Canberra are the ones who approve and select you from the pool. I would view it as you've been successful enough to be in the running for an offer but you've just fallen short on the rounds that have come out. You might get one in the next rounds!

[FlyingDr95]

Hi MrKhargify, I actually just got the call for an offer today! I must have just scraped in.

[lightningstriker]

Hi MrKhargify, I actually just got the call for an offer today! I must have just scraped in.

That's awesome. Congrats

[MrKhargify]

Oh sick! Congratulations dude! Typical slow RAAF :}

[FlyingDr95]

Thanks so much guys!! Yeah I think Canberra have just been really busy, there may still be more offers to come too.

[MrKhargify]

Speaking of offers, I got one today (yesterday afternoon) for RAAF ADFA 2016! :)

[FlyingDr95]

Wooo congratulations!!! :D

[qa169]

Congratulations on the offer! Grabbed one myself today for RAAF pilot ADFA, see you next year!

[FlyLowFlySlow]

FYI the 2016 FSP dates have been released.

http://www.airforce.gov.au/docs/ADF%20PSA%20course%20schedule%202016.pdf

Anyone got an invitation yet?

[MrKhargify]

Congratulations Qa! And thanks Qa and FlyingKid, see you next year Qa and might see you around sometime FlyingKid!

[Iwanttoaswell]

Hi All;

First time on this forum and a new starter. Does anyone have a copy of the RAAF Pilot and Officer E-Book they have finished with from ADFmentors please, or is there a better way to get all the information ? Also, what do recruiting think about candidates using these types of reference materials etc ?

[FlyLowFlySlow]

iwanttoaswell,

Just buy a copy of the eBook. Take it from me, it's the best $40 you'll spend during your application. As far as how DFR feel about it, I'm sure they appreciate resourceful applicants.

[ProudKerman]

Good book for sure but theres nothing there you cant find on the internet, also a lot is a little outdated so confirm everything before memorizing it.
You should also use other sources in your research as not everything you need to know is in there.
However I bought it and it did me great, it does well at compiling a lot of info into one place and gave me a bit more confidence after reading it.

[Rhino91]

Does anyone have any experience with medical waivers? I have received a letter of offer and have been given an enlistment date on the 19th of January however I am still waiting for the CMO to approve a medical waiver. I have been told that AvMed are supporting the waiver. Because AvMed are supporting it does this mean I can be confident that it will be approved or have there been circumstances where the CMO has rejected waivers that have been supported by AvMed? Also has anyone been unable to enlist as a result of a waiver not being approved in time and if so what happend?

Cheers

[MrKhargify]

Rhino91, I'm in the same boat as you. The first time they sent my waiver a couple of weeks ago it was approved by AvMed but denied by the RAAF and they didn't state a reason as to why (which apparently they normally do). What my DFR did was talk with people from the CMO's office and AvMed to help build a case to represent the waiver to the RAAF. It was sent last Tuesday and I'm just waiting to hear back, so I'll let you know how it goes.

[Mickda]

Hey guys.

If anyone else has gotten the call for Flight Screening on the 17 of January next year get in touch.

Myself and a co-worker are both heading down. I'd like to say hi before getting there! :ok:

[p3rko]

I've recently completed the YOU session. I'm going for Army Pilot :)

Has anyone completed the Additional Testing for Pilot recently? Have heard the test has changed. Eye/Hand Co-ordination test has been removed? What kind of maths appears on the test? Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Got my eyes tested. my vision isn't 20/20. I'm just off the mark. My eyes are short sighted -1.00 and -1.25. My optometrist said I don't legally need glasses for driving.

Will I get through ADF medical on my prescription? What are my options?

Have found a local company that does PRK and LASEK
http://www.lasik.com.au/eligibility/adf-member/

I'm 35. Have had periodic eye tests for the past 15 years. My eyes haven't changed during this time. The optometrist said I'm a great candidate for laser eye surgery.

Have read through the last 15 pages of this thread...will continue reading..just wondering if people could save me some time.

[FlyingSoon]

@Rhino91 - if you fail to get a medical waiver in time your enlistment date will be postponed. I had a similar experience with my scheduled appointment this year and as a result will be appointing next year. Your recommendation will remain valid as you received a job offer. Mine remained valid past the "one year in the pool" date because of this. Good luck and hope to see you on the 19th :)

flyingsoon

[FlyLowFlySlow]

p3rko, I sent you an email

[hamish757]

Hi,

I have my ADFA pilot assessment day in late January and I have a question. What is the difference between the initial minimum period of service (IMPS) and the return of service obligation (ROSO)?
An answer on this would be greatly appreciated.

regards
Hamish

[ryano]

An IMPS is linked to initial appointment/enlistment and a ROSO is linked to high value and/or long-term training. Both are an obligation for you to serve for a minimun period of time so the ADF can recover the costs of your training. As an example, pilot training in the Army incurs the same ROSO, however the IMPS will differ based on the level of officer training undertaken prior (SSO, GSO, ADFA, in-service Corps transfer etc).

[Perihelion]

Hi everyone, I am soon to attend my YOU Session with a view to a JBAC, ACO, or Intelligence mustering an wonder if anyone may be able to provide an insight as to how long the above mentioned process may take?

[Geff89]

Hey Guys,

I was just curious on the process of getting a recommendation but no offer?

I have heard that it is a 3 year wait to reapply?

is that 3 years from the date of the board or 3 years from the end of the year of your time in the pool?

Thanks in advance

[WedgetailEng]

Hi Geff89,

The 3 year re-application rule applies to the flying component of flight screening only, and not the OSB. They never used to give you another chance to complete the flying again but this has changed.

Once you complete the OSB and are recommended, your file is in the pool for 1 year. After that year is up and you don't get a letter of offer, your file then gets sent back to DFR. To get your file back into the pool, you will have to complete the assessment day and the OSB (not the flying component of flight screening) again. You may have noticed at Tamworth there were OSB only candidates that rock up on the day before the group activities and OSB start. I know this because I was one of them :(

Your flying score is retained for 3 years, but I think you can keep it for longer if you did well, or complete it again after the 3 year waiting period is up for a better score. Hope this helps

[pilothopeful92]

Hi all
Just wondering how candidates contact PSA (if you can) to make sure they have your file? one of my mates waited 6 months and they hadn't even received his file.
Also does anyone have any good online quick mathematical tests that have pilot applicable questions? (i can find some but not with specific q's like airspeed/time/dist)?

[adbailey121]

Hi guys,

New to the forum but have been scanning through this thread.
Have completed the assessment day and additional testing for Pilot and was told was Tier 1. Have also just been signed off medically by all the appropriate people.

Have seen the FSP schedule for this year and was just wondering from past FSP participants how far ahead they call?

Cheers and thanks for the wealth of knowledge in the thread!

[adbailey121]

Hi again,

Looks like i answered my own question. Got a call this morning for flight screening for the 6th or 7th of March. Anyone else get a call for this slot? If so feel free to send me an email or Private message.

Cheers:ok:

[JBWings]

Im heading down to screening on March 6th. Pumped!

Bailey i've sent you an email

Anyone else heading down shoot me an email too.

[pilothopeful92]

when did you submit your file to FSP? im still waiting for a call

[OspreyInOz]

pilothopeful, I sat my assessment day 1st October, and got a call 1st February regarding flight screening. I was unable to make the course starting March 7th, so I'm booked onto the course in April.
All up, that's 4 months, but between I had various information that they needed. Never actually got a confirmation that it had been sent/received until I got the call last Monday.

Congratulations Bailey and JB, and good luck.

[ARJM]

Hey guys, I'm sitting my additional testing in a couple of weeks and was just wondering if anyone that has done it recently can give me a bit of a low down on what goes on. All I've been told is that its an hour long test that assesses speed, accuracy and precision but this is fairly vague. Any informatiom would be very much appreciated. Cheers.

[OspreyInOz]

ARJM - That's pretty much it. You might find a bit more information in this thread, but not knowing exactly what you'll be asked could be seen as an important aspect of the test itself.
As for what happens on the day itself, you'll all go into the testing room, fill out a couple of forms, complete the tests, then wait for the results.

[LSkywalker]

Anyone know the name of any good aptitude books?

[oldbogie]

Recently completed 'Additional Testing' for Pilot/ACO/ATC. We were a group of 10, and all of us passed (yay! :D). From our group 8 were applying for Pilot, 1 ACO, and 1 ATC. Testing comprised of 4 tests, and took about an hour all up, if that.

I was expecting far worse on the day. No hand-eye co-ords test either - for pilot candidates I think this comes later.

Does anyone want to share their experience of the day (i.e. was it equally brief), and was the pass rate equally high?

[ARJM]

Hey oldbogie,

Ive also just completed additional testing and my experience was basically identical to yours. About 10 candidates, all of which passed. The testing was simpler than what I had anticipated. Where abouts did you do your testing? Just awaiting a call from dfr to book in for assessment day. Have you booked in for yours yet?

[oldbogie]

@ ARJM
I did mine in Brisbane. DRF chased me up for some paperwork, but haven't heard from them since.

[FlyingSoon]

You guys are lucky, there were only two guys who passed out of ten when I did it. The guy I went with didn't get through FSP :/

[machzero]

G'day everyone.

Wanted to say a huge thanks to everyone who has contributed to this thread. It's been an absolute gold mine in terms of tips and what to expect coming into these tests.

I have just today completed my "Assessment Day" and have been 'highly recommended' for flight screening, which I am absolutely stoked about. Hopefully I will be getting the call in the not-so distant future for an FSP date. If anyone else is waiting for the call feel free to send me a message!

Cheers everyone and hope to hear where others are at this point.

All the best,
machzero

[itabruce]

hi guys,
I want to apply for ADF pilot but I am bit over the age of 27.5 shown on the RAAF website...
however, after speaking to their recruiters got told that the RAAF consider all the applicants and if shown great potential they might wave the age factor.
Another option would be going for heli pilot since the age restriction is set at 49.
I am happy to hear suggestion here :)
the plan at the moment would be:
1. apply for RAAF pilot
2. if I get told I'm too old then go for navy or army pilot...

any thoughts?
cheers

[FlyingSoon]

Hi Bruce

I think go for what your heart is set on. As mentioned elsewhere on this thread, there are a number of people who are "older" and have made it through. One guy at BFTS when I was there was in his late thirties/early forties IIRC?

Also I think having a second option is a smart idea, as a PSF applicant your file will have the option of being considered by all three services if you rate well enough at FSP regardless of your nominated preferences at DFR. This means you can set "Pilot" as your only job preference at DFR and still potentially get a GSO offer for RMC or SSO or a Navy offer (as mentioned earlier this depends on your performance).

EDIT: Changed "preferences" to "performance".

[itabruce]

I think go for what your heart is set on. As mentioned elsewhere on this thread, there are a number of people who are "older" and have made it through. One guy at BFTS when I was there was in his late thirties/early forties IIRC?


Thank you! this boosted my hope :)
When talking to recruiters there is always that feeling that they tell you what you want to hear as they try to get as many people on board as possible... I needed an "external" opinion.

so basically during the YOU session I just need to say "pilot" without specifying raaf? Or can I actually say my first choice would be raaf and then navy and army?

[wazza21]

so basically during the YOU session I just need to say "pilot" without specifying raaf? Or can I actually say my first choice would be raaf and then navy and army?

You'll complete preference of service on your additional testing day. The recruiters will give you a form asking your preferred service and previous flying experience etc

[wazza21]

G'day guys,
I only found this forum tonight and am finding it very helpful. I have passed all testing and was recommended for FS & OSB back in September 2015 but after all the interviews was feeling pretty nervous and had high blood pressure in the medical... Surprise, surprise which is very unusual for me. Anyway after 3 months of regular blood pressure checks at the GP I'm all good just a bit of white coat....

Due to the medical delay my file wasn't sent to FSP until early January and I've been waiting for that phone call ever since.

My question is, has anyone had their file sent away about the same time? If so, have you heard anything yet?

This waiting game is killing me! As I'm sure it usually does with everyone else.

I did see a earlier post for the FS board phone number etc but id rather not make the first contact.

[MrKhargify]

Just correcting what Wazza21 said. What you put down during additional testing day is useless beyond assessment day. During your FSP you will get told many times how the system works, and the first question of every FSP OSB is "I have these as your preferences, would you like to change them?".

[FlyingSoon]

Bruce so how it works is you preference RAAF pilot at your YOU Session or over the phone and they'll test you on that specific job for your Assessment Day. The additional testing is the same regardless of service.

Once you get to Flight Screening they will explain to you how to change your preferences over the two week course which you can do at any time and as Khargify said, you will be asked in the OSB at the start what you want your preferences to be.

The reason for this is that the Army and Navy give "single service briefs" while you're there to try and convince you to preference them as well, and you can change it at "the window" at any time.

[wazza21]

Yeah that's a better explanation! As I've said in still waiting for FS so thanks for clarifying.

[FlyLowFlySlow]

Wazza, give FSP a call and confirm that they have your file (if they don't, you could be waiting a while for that call). The girls at FSP are very helpful and should be able to give you an idea of where you are sitting on the list.

Hope this helps.

FLFS

[itabruce]

FlyingSoon

thanks for that clarification, really appreciated.

Now what I guess it is the real question: how put the preferences in a way that it doesn't close any door?
My heart is telling me go for RAAF but my age is saying play it "safe"... (not that it is safe but at least Army and Navy seem to be a fraction easier than RAAF)..

Also keeping the same preference would disqualify me for the other services in case I won't get it?

[Brenno17]

Been following this thread for the past 2 years....so much info.
So, I'm currently in the process of hopefully becoming a Navy Pilot via ADFA.
I completed my Assesment day about 2 months and have been told that my file has been sent down to FSP in Tamworth.
How do I get hold of FSP to find out if they have my file or not?

Also...has anyone received a call about FSP in April...?


P.s. Thanks in advance to everyone for contributing to this forum.

[wazza21]

Thanks FLFS for you help, i'll give them a call tomorrow and check my position and make sure they've got my file. (surely recruiting can't be that bad!?)

Brenno17, Sounds like we're in the same boat. hopefully the ball starts rolling for both of us soon! are you applying for ADFA or DEO?

[MrKhargify]

Wazza, last year my file was sent to Tamworth at the end of February and I only got the call for FSP at the end of August. I wouldn't be too concerned, maybe give your local DFR a call to make sure they sent it.

[wazza21]

Brenno17, awesome, i'm applying for DEO. the number is 02 6760 7677, rang them this morning and seemed very helpful and said they would get back to me this arvo with any information. hope that helps

MrKhargify, Wow that's a pretty big wait! spoke to DFR last month to get an update and they said my file had been sent away, and i would hopefully here something early march...
p.s how did you go at FSP?

[FlyingSoon]

Bruce,

No problem :)

To not close any doors my advice is preference RAAF Pilot at DFR and then when you get the Flight Screening paperwork aircrew service preference form, preference all three as "Most Preferred" on the 3 box form or "5 out of 5" for the 5 box form.

Preferencing more than one job at DFR will make it harder for you to get through Assessment Day considering you can just change your preferences at FSP.

For example on my Flight Screening guys only preferenced RAAF pilot at DFR and ended up getting offers for Army and Navy afterwards anyway as well as RAAF offers.

Good luck,
fs

[ARJM]

Hey guys,

I recently completed my additional testing and dfr has contacted me with dates for assessment day. I had to tell them that I wanted to put it off as I'm currently in my last year of uni, so I have a fairly big work load plus I also have work commitments and I want to have some time before the day to do some study and prepare myself. Was just wondering if any of you have an idea of how dfr look at this? Would they prefer me to put off my civilian commitments? Cheers.

[MrKhargify]

It definitely was a long wait, and I will admit I was getting quite worried. I got through flight screening with a high recommendation and I'm now a first year at ADFA. I do think it's a bit different for ADFA, but I don't think the time it takes to get on course adversely affects your application. As long as you get on course, you have equal opportunity. For example, out of the 24 people from 3 courses I met, I'm at ADFA with 8 of them.

Also, I would like to pass on some advice, even if it's been said before.

Study hard, and study effectively. The big points here are to ensure you remember the numbers and practice the actions. This will improve your flying significantly and will let you focus on actually maneuvering the aircraft, instead of what attitude you're supposed to be at.
If you stuff up one flight, don't worry. In my last flight (assessment) I flew the worst I've ever flown. They commented on it in the OSB, but as long as you recognise it and can answer why you ****** it, you're all good. Not everyone can be perfect all the time.
Always have a positive attitude and look like you're always trying to improve. Ask questions if you're unsure.
Talk to people at BFTS and ask questions. I learnt so much from talking to one of the current super hornet pilots who's instructing there.
Don't point in the cockpit :=
Enjoy it. It's a fantastic 2 weeks.


If you've got any questions, let me know.

[FlyingSoon]

Khargify makes a lot of good points. I just want to emphasise that you should be positive and enjoying yourself at all times, after all this is a sample of the life you are going to live if successful! Also, I spent a lot of time socialising with the BFTS guys. A lot of advice says here to not touch the board games in the common room but I found playing with the padre and the BFTS students offers a great talking point and environment to ask a lot of questions. In my OSB interview they commented on my depth of knowledge and asked how I knew so much.

One thing I want to add is make friends with your coursemates. These guys are going to potentially be part of your class at training schools and will be your colleagues in the future. Start off well with them and support each other. It is not a competition between you and them, itis a competition between you and the standard to get recommended.

[alec taylor]

Hi all. Just wondering if anyone has been given a letter of offer and afterwards, designated class 4.

[FlyingSoon]

Hi alec taylor,

I got a medical downgrade after I got my LOO. Later got reupgraded and am now in the job. PM me if you need any help.

Best,
fs

[itabruce]

Bruce,

No problem :)

To not close any doors my advice is preference RAAF Pilot at DFR and then when you get the Flight Screening paperwork aircrew service preference form, preference all three as "Most Preferred" on the 3 box form or "5 out of 5" for the 5 box form.

Preferencing more than one job at DFR will make it harder for you to get through Assessment Day considering you can just change your preferences at FSP.

For example on my Flight Screening guys only preferenced RAAF pilot at DFR and ended up getting offers for Army and Navy afterwards anyway as well as RAAF offers.

Good luck,
fs

Thanks for this.
My only "fear" in doing as you suggest is that because I'm over 30 I won't get to assessment day because potentially too old for RAAF. In that case I wouldn't even get the chance to prefer them all at the flight screening...

[FlyingSoon]

Getting to Assessment Day is not the hard part, it's getting through the Assessment Day itself. They'll tell you if you aren't competitive early on in the piece based on age. YOU Session is just to see what kind of person you are and set you in the right direction with regards to testing and giving you a realistic selection of jobs to apply for.

[machzero]

Hey Brenno,

Congratulations mate, you must be absolutely stoked.

When did your file get sent off to flight screening? Mine is being sent today so it's all about the waiting game now I guess !

All the best mate and congrats again,

machzero

[djmp92]

Hey guys! First time poster long time lurker on this thread! There's some fantastic information on here.

Currently booked in for Additional Testing on this Monday. Been studying non-stop so I'm hoping I'll do well.

With regards to the medicals I'm a little worried. I went to hospital either last year because of a sore chest and was worried it was a heart issue. Doctor diagnosed it as muscle soreness since there was nothing wrong with my heart. Will DFR look down on this whole event? Keep hearing horror stories regarding medicals so I'm just looking for some clarification.

[FlyingSoon]

hey djmp,

As someone who has had lots of fun with medical, I can tell you that if you are prepared with all the relevant documentation for when they ask you about it you will be fine. If you're in for the Additional Testing, that means you've gone through the YOU session medical. If you raised this then and they didn't make a fuss it means it shouldn't be such a huge issue come Assessment Day.

Make sure to get all the relevant reports for any xrays or imaging performed. Make an appointment to see your specialist if you saw one for a few months away if your referral is valid so you can go and get a report if they ask for it. If they don't ask just cancel the appointment.

The reason everyone has headaches with medical is they go in expecting to be "good to go" and next minute they are unprepared and made Class 3 or 4. Depending on who you see be prepared to have to get all these details and get a letter from a specialist to avoid this categorisation. Getting a 3 or 4 isn't the end of the world however. You can still be classed fit for FSP while not Class 1.

Good luck with the additional testing and if you have any more questions fire away.

[djmp92]

Thanks FS!

Yeah I brought everything up with the nurse and she just jotted it down on the computer. Only elaborated on the date and the diagnosis.

Additional testing went well so I'm through to the next stage.

Yes I was thinking of gathering all the relevant reports. Reading about all the medicals made me want to be pretty prepared for them. Last thing I want is waiting months because paperwork I sent in hasn't reached them or something silly. Better to just have it there and then on the day like you said.

One question - if you don't produce the paperwork does that render you as a Class 3 or 4 until you provide it? And therefore fit for Class 1 FSP?

[FlyingSoon]

Congratulations mate, start studying now for your chosen roles. Don't forget to do a bit of research into the other services as well to round out your knowledge for OSB and Assessment Day

Not producing paperwork will make you a 2E or 2D or something similar (temporarily unfit pending waiver or paperwork), but sometimes if you can't explain something as serious as chest pains then they will shoot you down before you even get a chance!

There's a separate medical sheet they fill out for aircrew applicants during your Assessment Day re fitness for FSP, so it is independent of your "DFR Classification". There's a big box that says "FIT FOR FSP" down the bottom you need to get a tick in!

I missed my first eligible intake because I didn't have paperwork prepared which is why I strongly advocate everyone to cover themselves.

Best,
fs

[pilothopeful92]

I basically have summarised the relevant parts of the ADF mentors pilot book, like the general process, aircraft, history of the services, dot point answers to likely questions like my leadership and personal experiences, structure of the ADF and current issues. Just some more depth on what my interview notes were. Plus a bit of maths and flying study.

[MrKhargify]

Be ready to answer some different questions and make sure you have your opinions and views set for current operations and recent missions. I wasn't expecting questions asking about my opinions and views so be ready.

[alec taylor]

My two biggest tips for OSB are;

To wait and think before you talk. It seems obvious but the nerves on the day will tend to make you rush and say something incorrect, or just inappropriate.

The other tip is once you've said what you need to, shut up. The sound of silence is daunting especially when you have four potential employers staring at you. They're waiting to see if you snap under the pressure of silence and reveal too much.

Be clear, concise and take your time. The greatest pilot of all time, Neil Armstrong would never say something to which he would later regret. In the air however, he was as sharp as a tack. Don't assume that because you emit a slow, methodical demeanour the board will assume you're slow to react in the air. They're looking for officer qualities remember.

[machzero]

What are people's opinions on the sorts of maths they will ask during your OSB? Are they exactly the type of speed distance time questions that were in the pilot specific testing or are they a little easier to work out in your head? For all my speed distance time stuff I have been using pen and paper but obviously you can't do that in the OSB so whats the deal with those sorts of questions?

My file has been sent to Tamworth and hopefully it won't be long until I get the call.

All the best to everyone!

[alec taylor]

What are people's opinions on the sorts of maths they will ask during your OSB? Are they exactly the type of speed distance time questions that were in the pilot specific testing or are they a little easier to work out in your head? For all my speed distance time stuff I have been using pen and paper but obviously you can't do that in the OSB so whats the deal with those sorts of questions?

My file has been sent to Tamworth and hopefully it won't be long until I get the call.

All the best to everyone!

The maths questions, I recall, were basic arithmetic and speed-distance related.

Know your timetables back to front. Fraction to percentage values, ie 1/8 is 12.5%.

Other little tricks such as 60kts = 1 nm per minute, are invaluable, not only in the interview but in the cockpit.

Like I've said previously, it's a different game when you get asked 4X16 and they're are 4 people staring at you. Take your time, close your eyes, don't say you don't know. Work it out.

[wazza21]

Finally got the call for flight screening today! i'll be up there from the 8th-21st of May. So let me know if your on the same course. Also received my medical letter a couple of weeks ago and have been all cleared Class 1, which is a huge relief!

Congratulation to everyone above who has also got onto a FSP!

[machzero]

Congrats Wazza! How long were you waiting between Assessment Day and your phone call?

You must be stoked mate, congratulations again and all the best for May.

[wazza21]

machzero - i completed assessment day September 2015 but was held up with medical and my file wasn't sent to FSP until January 2016, so about 4 months of waiting!
hopefully your wait isnt too long mach.

[adbailey121]

Hey everyone,

I hope that everyone is going well and those at FSP are loving it.

Just wondering if anyone has had any word of offers coming out for a June/July intake for RAAF.

Cheers

[FlyLowFlySlow]

adbailey121,

FYI, two gents that I completed FSP with have received RAAF offers for the June intake.

FLFS

[ARJM]

Hey guys,

Just finished assessmemt day and have been recommended for flight screening. Just seeing if anyone has an idea of the wait time currently.

Cheers

[machzero]

Hey ARJM,

My file was sent to Tamworth about a month ago now. The common trend seems to be anywhere between 2-4 months if you're competitive. It's the waiting game for us at the moment!

FLFS, how long was the wait for those guys from FSP to RAAF offers?

machzero

[FlyLowFlySlow]

Tom,

It was around 1-2 months, but I believe that was due to good timing more than anything. It will all depend on when you competed FSP and when the next offers are coming out.

[machzero]

G'day everyone,

I got the call this morning to attend FSP from the 18th of June to the 2nd of July! This was meant to be an RMC slot but they said that they had changed it to DEO. I'm so stoked! Let me know if anyone else has got their call.

All the best everyone,
machzero

[wazza21]

G'day everyone,

I got the call this morning to attend FSP from the 18th of June to the 2nd of July! This was meant to be an RMC slot but they said that they had changed it to DEO. I'm so stoked! Let me know if anyone else has got their call.

All the best everyone,
Tom

Congrats Tom!!! That's great news!
I'm up here at the moment and I can tell you right now your gonna have so much fun!

[machzero]

Thanks wazza !! I'm so excited, can't even begin to tell you how keen I am. You saying how much fun it is only adds to that excitement!

You have to let me know how your OSB goes. In particular the maths part because it's the only part I'm anxious about.

All the best for your remaining days buddy, you'll smash it!!

machzero

[machzero]

Hey everyone,

Has anyone had experience with either Red Baron or the ADFMentors OSB prep course? If so could you shed a little bit of light on them? How useful were they? Did you feel you got your moneys worth? Do you recommend them?

Any info would be greatly appreciated. Cheers and good luck to everyone.

machzero

[djmp92]

I did a flight with RedBaron last week. As someone who has had zero flying experience it was top notch and irreplaceable. Received a booklet on things to study and the pilots knowledge of FS and OSB was invaluable.

A little pricey at $600, but if you get as much information out of the pilot as you can then it's well worth it. Will be going for another one before FS starts.

[machzero]

Okay great. I feel their flying component will obviously be top notch but am more concerned about their OSB preparation. Are you flying with Mike? I made some inquiries today and I think that is the guy who runs the flights.

Have you been allotted a course date?

[CaptainSkyHawk]

Hey Guy. Been a keen reader since 2014, on a different account.
A little about myself:
I'm going for RAAF DEO, and after a very long and patient wait(medically), finally got a call for FSP (18th june to 2nd july). My dossier was sent to PSA on 8th of April and luckily got a call for FSP on 13th May. Who else is going up for FSP on this date? Would be great to get acquainted :)

[djmp92]

Okay great. I feel their flying component will obviously be top notch but am more concerned about their OSB preparation. Are you flying with Mike? I made some inquiries today and I think that is the guy who runs the flights.

Have you been allotted a course date?

Their preparation is more geared towards flight screening rather than OSB, however the pilots been there and done it so he'll give you whatever information you ask for. You get the value from the session by being socially proactive, not waiting for the answers. Pretty sure his name was Mike yeah.
Still waiting to be cleared medically, going in with an open yet confident mind. All this experience in working hard and flying acrobatic trainers is invaluable and priceless regardless of the outcome :)

[machzero]

All the best of luck with your medical mate. I'm sure you will be fine!

Let me know when you get a course date!!

[Woja]

Thanks everyone for all the great info.
Would anyone know whether all the successful applicants for the upcoming June/July course have been notified?

[Lachlan Maher]

Hi guys
Just spent the last couple hours reading and reading and I've just got a question in regards to getting a spot in the FSP.
I had my you session last year and unlocked everything but I finished High School in the united states so I had to get my transcript converted to an Australian standard before I could proceed. I was then informed that I would need to study a 2 unit maths course which was difficult to find but about 2 weeks ago they called me and told me to do my Pilot Specific Test first, which I then passed but I still need to complete a 2 Unit Maths course. What im getting at is that will my effort and diligence with all of my studies and extra paperwork be noted along with my performance in the interview in regards to getting a spot? Or is it strictly interview? Does it make me look like I am taking it seriously or that I'm keen?

Any help would be great, thanks!

[machzero]

Lachlan,

If you go out of your way just to do a bridging course for maths it will definitely be noted. If they have two candidates, one who has achieved good scores in 2 Unit but didn't have to work for it and the other has got the same scores but worked hard for them, they will almost always pick the hard worker. This is not just pertaining to the ADF, you'll find this is the case everywhere in life. Remember: Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.

I've wanted to do this since I was a young boy and have always grown up with the mentality that if you want it badly enough then you will achieve it.

Woja - when was your dossier sent to Tamworth?

All the best guys,
machzero

[Woja]

Hi machzero, just to clarify - I meant to ask whether anyone knows if all the successful candidates for the next BFTS intake been notified?
Thanks

[FlyLowFlySlow]

Has anyone had any experience with getting laser eye surgery prior to being appointed? More specifically correcting astigmatism?

From the info I've received only PRK/LASEK is currently accepted and requires a 6 month wait post-op before being considered for AVR1 classification.

Where did you get the procedure done, how much was it, and how was your experience?

Cheers,
FLFS

[alec taylor]

Has anyone had any experience with getting laser eye surgery prior to being appointed? More specifically correcting astigmatism?

From the info I've received only PRK/LASEK is currently accepted and requires a 6 month wait post-op before being considered for AVR1 classification.

Where did you get the procedure done, how much was it, and how was your experience?

Cheers,
FLFS

Sent you a private message.

[FlyLowFlySlow]

Haven't received anything Alec

(Edit: Cheers Alec!)

[JBWings]

Woja,

Some of the guys I went with to FSP (march) have said their case managers told them the JULY intake for OTS is full. The next one is expected to be in FEB.

However other case managers, like mine, didnt have this information.

Im not 100% sure the above is true however, can anyone else confirm this?

[machzero]

Hey everyone,

Just spoke with my case manager and unfortunately that is semi the case regarding the OTS intakes. There is one intake for the 29th of July of which there are 5 pilot spots (I think this is RAAF spots, not sure about RAN or Army). Next intake after that is in February of which there are around 20 spots (again I think this is RAAF).

For those of us going to FSP on the 18th of June to the 2nd of July and every course after that, it will unfortunately be a wait until Feb of next year to get a job offer.

Also note that they only send out job offers 4 weeks away from the start date of the OTS course - no one knows until 4 weeks out.

All the best everyone,

machzero

[Woja]

Machzero, thanks for info, do you mean that there are still 5 spots to be filled in the July course or the course total is 5 and has already been filled?
Thanks

[JBWings]

Mach,

So i'm correct in saying that the top 5 pilot applicants have yet to be contacted for the July intake?

Is the above all information through your case manager?

[wazza21]

G'day everyone, been a while since my last post but as some of you know i have been away at the magical land of flight screening.

Firstly, I can say that i have been highly recommended for a pilot position in the RAAF and am now waiting for a letter of offer. pretty exciting.

Secondly after looking over the recent posts i can see there are a couple of questions regarding FSP preparation and OTS course dates.

Firstly, as much as i want to help you guys out i CAN NOT tell you details regarding OSB or flight screening particulars! however, from my experience you DO NOT have to have flying experience to pass FSP! just be yourself and do what they teach you and you will be on your way to a high recommendation!

FSP Prep: I personally before going, had 100hrs flight experience and was placed on the advanced course (which was so much fun) but this, although helped be comfortable in the airborne environment is not required as they will teach you everything you need to know. You don't have to spend $100's of dollars on flying preparation, maybe a couple of trial flights to make sure your comfortable in the air!


OSB: hard to prep for - JUST BE YOURSELF!!!

OTS Course Dates:

RAAF - 20th of June with the next intake on the 1st of August. (last one for the year)
NAVY - July
Army - July

Hope this helps everyone and good luck to everyone who has been selected for a future FSP courses! just relax and have FUN!

[machzero]

No one has been notified about the July 29th OTS course (according to my case manager) because they only send out the offers 4 weeks out. So there are 5 RAAF offers available for that course.

JBWings, that is correct. All my info is directly from my case manager who I called today.

To be honest, looking at Wazza's new information I think there is a lot of confusion as to courses and specifics.

Cheers,
machzero

[machzero]

Also forgot to mention but CONGRATULATIONS Wazza !!! That's such great news mate. You must be absolutely stoked. Let's hope you get onto that July course if not, Feb!

All the best mate!
machzero

[wazza21]

Cheers Tom! I am definitely stoked with the result and can't wait to head down to OTS!

Regarding course intakes etc, I can positively say that letters of offer can be sent well before 4 weeks, i know this, because 2 of my fellow FSP candidates received letter of offers for the July army intake on the day of there board. which was quite exciting.

RAAF OTS course positions - There is obviously some confusion between sources but all i have been told by DFR, FSP & OSB officers, is that the next OTS intake is the 1st of August. (20th of June is full)
RAAF have more than 2 intakes per year. Compared to Army & Navy who have 2 (January & July) this information is easy to find.

hope this helps, further more please understand this information is just what i have been told over the past few days.

[JBWings]

August intake! the dream is real.

exciting stuff. hopefully a few of us get offers sooner rather than later.

[flyinghigh2002]

Hi Everyone,

Does anyone know if there is an august intake for certain?
Have any letters of offer been made for this round?

Thanks

[wazza21]

Flyinghigh,
I know there is definitely a OTS course commencing on the 1st of August with letters of offer coming out in the next 3-4weeks. fingers crossed we all get one!

[flyinghigh2002]

Thanks Wazza21- great news.
Do you know if it's only 5 RAAF positions?

[flyinghigh2002]

Hi Cam Borland,
Hope FSP went well- how did the group go?
Standard 50% get recommended or higher?
Any word on how many they are taking in August?

[ARJM]

Just seeing if anyone has had the call to go to flight screening recently and when you did your assessment day. I did mine about 6 weeks ago and haven't heard anything.

[Kai Sparrius]

Hi everyone, first of all thanks for the fantastic info that's on here.
ARJM, I got the call to go to flight screening about 2 weeks ago, so excited! I did my assessment day in February but my file got held up for a while due to medical. Notified class 1 now so that's great.
I'll be on the 9-23 July FSP, so if anyone else is on that course, feel free to contact me.

[ARJM]

Nice one Kai! Hopefully mine isn't too far off

[nrs108]

ARJM, be sure to check with your DFR rep to make sure your file has been sent. My rep took well over two months to send mine I later found out.
However, I got the call up to the FSP for July 31st! If anyone else is on a similar course drop me a line.

[machzero]

G'day everyone,

Got back from FSP on Saturday with a high recommendation and in the eyes of the OSB they deem me as 'very very competitive' which I'm absolutely stoked about. Hard work seriously pays off!

The whole 2 weeks is ridiculous fun and a pretty good insight into your future. If anyone has received an offer for August OTS then let us know! Hopefully I will get on the Feb course.

Good luck all,
machzero

[JBWings]

gratz mac.

I'm in the same position as you.

The advice I got from Tamworth was that the August intake has been filled for months. However that info hasn't trickled through to DFR - hence why there some confusion at the moment.

Did they provide you any information on when you're likely to be called (distribution dates) and number of positions for OTS in Feb?

[machzero]

Hey JB,

No info from anyone about course dates or positions available. To be honest I don't think knowing will even help. At this point we have done all we can and now it's up to them.

Forgot to mention that on our course we sat down on the first night and said that we wanted to get everyone recommended. And that's exactly what we did. All 9 of us were recommended. 3 of us got highly recommended, 4 medium to low and 2 sitting in the middle.

[ThisIsntLegalAdvice]

Hi all,

Long time observer, first time poster.

So good to see the progress a lot of people are making, hang in there to those lost in the limbo between stages! I've heard turn around times from assessment to FSP as short as a month to 9 months depending on medical and how tidy DFR is with your file.

I just found out this week I'm on the FSP course in early August so I'm pumped to go!

It's good to hear the approach your course took Mach; the contact I spoke to at FSP was mildly scathing of some courses on their preparation while at FSP so it sounds like you got it right!

If anyone else on here is preparing to go down in the upcoming FSP courses shoot me an email if you want to bounce ideas or concerns!

Fly safe!

[ARJM]

Hi Machzero,

Congratulations on your high recommendation. Are you able to give us a little bit of insight as to what it was that separated yourself to the people that got a lower recommendation. I know you wont be able to go into too much detail bit anything will be very much appreciated. Cheers

[wazza21]

G'day everyone.
This post has been a few weeks coming but I have been flat out with current work. After attending FSP back in May and receiving a high recommendation, I have received my letter of offer on the 20th of June for the August course and am enlisting on the 29th of July, along with two others from my FSP course.

Thanks again everyone for your help and advice from previous posts and I look forward to reading many of you being succesful with the January intake.

Regards
Wazza

[machzero]

ARJM,

Thanks mate!
It's hard for me to say because I didn't feel that I was doing better than anyone else. In terms of the flying; I found out in my OSB that they feel I have a natural flying ability and 'good hands and feet' which I think helped a lot with the flying side of things. With the OSB and Officer side, it sounds cliche but just be yourself, because that's the person they want to give a job. I spoke to a lot of the BFTS students while I was in Tamworth and just observing how they interact, it isn't hard to tell that there is definitely a 'mould' that everyone fits (everyone is pretty like minded in terms of personalities, humour etc). I definitely think that is a large part of what they screen for in Tamworth, whether you fit that mould or not. If you've gotten to FSP it means you've been doing everything right so far. Keep that up and be yourself because they like what they see.

Last bit of advice: work your ass off. You will reap the rewards in your OSB when you hear the Board President say 'Congratulations, we're going to highly recommend you'.

Congratulations Wazza! That's seriously awesome news mate. What service? You must be absolutely stoked with that result. Can't wait to get an offer myself.

All the best,
machzero

[nrs108]

Congrats guys, you must be stoked! Pretty sound advice machzero, thanks.

[wazza21]

Thanks Machzero, I am over the moon. The offer was with the RAAF, so heading down to freeze my nuts off down at east sale.

[twotimes]

Adding to what machzero said:

With regards to personalities they're looking for I can't really answer the specifics of it but you'll notice it when you're there. Those of us who weren't low recommended seemed similar in many ways but different in others, same as quite a few of the BFTS guys I spoke to, so while machzero is right there is a mould to some degree there is some play for differences.

The two weeks does allow them a pretty good insight into who you are, especially under stress so it's hard to fake who you are to meet some idea of what they're looking for, you'll revert to type at some point and it will be picked up. Obviously you have to take with a grain of salt whatever anyone says after their result but one lad did come out and mentioned something we'd all picked up on was brought up by the board. Given the amount of time in the group interviews and the board they'd definitely managed to pick it up well before that. So like they said make sure you are yourself, they're going to find it anyway. There really isn't much to do once you're there, you've either done what you need to for personal development or you've not, try not to worry about that just take the time to enjoy it.

It took me 3 years but I finally got a recommendation.

[harrybass3]

Hi guys,

First time poster here and I congratulate those who received recommendations and thank you for being willing to serve your country.

I think this warranted a new post.

So after passing the YOU day, failing specialist testing, then failing the YOU then going to Uni graduating I resat my YOU day and smashed it. I then sat specialist testing but failed gauge reading. After highlighting the officer attributes I got given a waiver and am through to assessment day. The waiver was conditional on me obtaining recency with my PPL, the logic being if you can fly a plane that is evidence you can read gauges.

My questions are.
1. How do you think a waiver effects my application
2. How do I prepare to smash this assessment day.

I know there are post about assessment day but situation is a bit specific.

[josephfeatherweight]

Hi harrybass - congrats on your progress thus far. I would say, if you're though so far, you're through and your "waiver" should not affect your progress. If they're considering you with obtaining your recency on PPL (which the ADF normally don't care about) then they think you're a good candidate who had a "brain fart" when it came to their "gauge test". So, put it in the past and move ahead!! I have no idea what the assessment day entails, it was too long ago... Best of luck!

[CoodaShooda]

recency on PPL (which the ADF normally don't care about)

Very ancient history now, Joe but back in 1977 the Selection Board told me that if I demonstrated my ability to study by doing my PPL Theory subjects, they'd accept me for the following DE course. (I was four years out of school at that point.)

(Fortunately for one of the guys currently going through 2OCU, I took a different path. If I'd taken up the Board's offer, I'd have never met his mother. :E)

[josephfeatherweight]

Yes, should have been a little clearer in my comment - the ADF is always interested in you demonstrating an interest and showing motivation - such as pursuing your PPL. However, what I was referring to was the fact that in this case, they appear to be overruling one of their standard tests on the basis of a candidate's PPL recency, something I hadn't heard of before. Which tends to happen more and more now... :)
All the best to your offspring at 2OCU - that's an amazing achievement!!