Flight deck positions at FlyDubai Master Thread - Merged

[imedi]

Let's just have a look at the employee handbook where it tells us where it is easier to pass an interview.

[JonyBGood]

Let's just have a look at the employee handbook where it tells us where it is easier to pass an interview.

I'm asking for candidates which had screening experience in both places. That's your case?

[dubaigong]

Jony BGood,

It will be very difficult to find an answer to your question because I don't think that there are many people who have been screened from both places.
Furthermore one may find one place easier and another one the other , it is very subjective and also depend on who was screening that day.

[Otto Throttle]

Anyone who needs screening twice is absolutely prime FZ material - desperate and inept.

[bounce'em all]

Anyone who needs screening twice is absolutely prime FZ material - desperate and inept.

Hey, Otto...?

[JonyBGood]

Anyone who needs screening twice is absolutely prime FZ material - desperate and inept.

We have a Top Gun here guys.

Welcome Astronaut, Maverick.

Decrease your Ego buddy, you're just a Driver, a machine operator.

[JonyBGood]

How is the group exercises and evidence-based interview guys? And the SIM for NTR candidates?

[Vortex Thing]

Jony I personally suggest that you are the one who wants to check his attitude not Otto.

Seems to me that he just made a reasonably funny comment because your question is pretty much unanswerable.

Dubaigong tried to help you and you haven't really gotten the hint. I have partially answered your question in my post as well.

We don't know what country you are from, your background, your exepreience, your hours, your level of English. We are getting an idea of your personaiity type but the fact is that even if we had all of that material infront of us, even then it would still be subjective for the reasons that dubaigong mentions.

You also come across as not wanting to explain your circumstances. Why would an A320 currently qualified pilot want to go back to square 1 in FZ. You have the hourss to apply to EK if you have the hours to apply to FZ and would move to widebody. If you want short haul and want to stay on rosters taht get you home then look at the Emirate up the road with the 787 and QR. They both have A320 fleets and options for later if you want to go longhaul.

FZ isn't the sort of airline where you go unless you need something from it. If you are unemployed, need a job now, aren't European and were a Boeing pilot then FZ may make some sense if not there are just so many better options such as QR, EK, etc

FZ is rather like an Easter egg, it is all shiny and pretty on the outside but pretty hollow on the inside. Staff travel is pretty crap compared to other ME carriers.
Your roster as a new guy will be frickin awful, you will be treated like **** and if you have a family you are going to struggle as the cost of living overall is rising waay faster than the pay and they simply do not care.

The most often heard phrase from the chief pilot is, " If you don't like it, then leave"

From the reaction you gave otto and dubaigong you don't come across as the sort of pilot who would be happy in that environment. If however we're all missing something then apply away. As for which location? like I and two others said we would need more info to make a call but at the end of the day even with the info its still a how long is a piece of string question.

Lastly if you are applying to an airline, read the thread as questions like how is the sim/selection/etc have been answered so many times in this thread. It just makes you look lazy!

[galbi_c]

VT, so you mean you're treated like "****" as in dealing with horrible rosters but what about the cockpit culture as far as how the captains treat you?

Evidently beginning this month in Istanbul, they're conducting only 1 day assessment with Sim and technical interview conducted by flydubai TRI. Anyone have any info on the technical interview? Also if anyone has Isatanbul assessment on the 19th this month please PM me.

[BritishGuy]

As far as I know, FZ don't do technical interviews (unless things have changes - as of last week!)

[JonyBGood]

Jony I personally suggest that you are the one who wants to check his attitude not Otto.

Seems to me that he just made a reasonably funny comment because your question is pretty much unanswerable.

Dubaigong tried to help you and you haven't really gotten the hint. I have partially answered your question in my post as well.

We don't know what country you are from, your background, your exepreience, your hours, your level of English. We are getting an idea of your personaiity type but the fact is that even if we had all of that material infront of us, even then it would still be subjective for the reasons that dubaigong mentions.

You also come across as not wanting to explain your circumstances. Why would an A320 currently qualified pilot want to go back to square 1 in FZ. You have the hourss to apply to EK if you have the hours to apply to FZ and would move to widebody. If you want short haul and want to stay on rosters taht get you home then look at the Emirate up the road with the 787 and QR. They both have A320 fleets and options for later if you want to go longhaul.

FZ isn't the sort of airline where you go unless you need something from it. If you are unemployed, need a job now, aren't European and were a Boeing pilot then FZ may make some sense if not there are just so many better options such as QR, EK, etc

FZ is rather like an Easter egg, it is all shiny and pretty on the outside but pretty hollow on the inside. Staff travel is pretty crap compared to other ME carriers.
Your roster as a new guy will be frickin awful, you will be treated like **** and if you have a family you are going to struggle as the cost of living overall is rising waay faster than the pay and they simply do not care.

The most often heard phrase from the chief pilot is, " If you don't like it, then leave"

From the reaction you gave otto and dubaigong you don't come across as the sort of pilot who would be happy in that environment. If however we're all missing something then apply away. As for which location? like I and two others said we would need more info to make a call but at the end of the day even with the info its still a how long is a piece of string question.

Lastly if you are applying to an airline, read the thread as questions like how is the sim/selection/etc have been answered so many times in this thread. It just makes you look lazy!

1- It was DXB x SOU, not IST x SOU.

2- I'm unemployed now.

3- Yes, I'm experienced.
+5.000,00 hours on Jets > 55t.

4- Why not QR or EK? Because I don't want neither QR or EK or EY

5- Why FZ? Why not A320? Simply because I want to live in Dubai and fly B737 for FZ. Believe me, there's a lot of worst places to work for.

6- Why? Are you Crazy? Yes, i'm, definitely. Because i want, because I can, because I'll do it.

Any questions?

[dubaigong]

With this kind of attitude I am not sure that you will manage to pass the screening for FZ wherever you choose to go but good luck anyway...
Should you pass the screening then if you react the same way on the aircraft it will be a real problem for you to adapt to the multicultural environment that you will be facing in FZ.

[JonyBGood]

With this kind of attitude I am not sure that you will manage to pass the screening for FZ wherever you choose to go but good luck anyway...
Should you pass the screening then if you react the same way on the aircraft it will be a real problem for you to adapt to the multicultural environment that you will be facing in FZ.

Ahahahaha I'm crazy but I'm not dumb. I'm a good actor. Anyway, thanks for your tips.

[LostinT2DXB]

Someone asked about flight deck culture. For the most part it's a good work environment, however the company is hiring more DECs that have limited CRM skills, mostly because they come from cultures that never taught respect for fellow pilot, i.e. When I was Jr the Captains were sh1t to me so I am going to be sh1t to you! Some of the guys that upgraded after failing several times at their European airline are a handful to fly with as well, they think they know it all and are here to teach you even though they are not a LTC. I'll even be sexist and say we have a couple lady cAPTAINS that can't handle the male dominated work environment and then overcompensate by making sure you know THEY are in charge. Most people come to work now with the attitude to just get the job done and go home. It's not fun or even interesting to be here anymore. Without fail, every new guy I've flown with lately has said flydubai was their LAST option and only place that would hire them, either for failing all other assessments or because they do not have any experience to qualify any place else. Not exactly an airline attracting the best candidates. Anyone thinking they will come here and "it won't be that bad" or "there are worse places" please withdraw your application now. This turd ain't worth it. It won't get better. The management can have all the meetings they want with line pilots to "discuss" secret changes that will be coming one day, but sad fact is the salary is pathetic and if you have family you most likely drowned in debt if you try to make a go of it here as an FO. Good luck!

[bounce'em all]

Anyone who needs screening twice is absolutely prime FZ material - desperate and inept.

Oooottoooo....? You there, pal?

[Vortex Thing]

Combine what Lostin T2 said, with which I mostly sadly and wholeheartedly concur with plus the fact that when I was an FO and I did bring any of this to light the reaction wasn't exactly ,"Thank you for your candour, it must be hard to write a report such as this. We have had the same captain reported over 20 times including for actually striking an FO, for taking a plane against the FOs wishes with an MEL which wasn't going to help on braking action poor onto a snowy/icy shortened runway for landing and only just making it/ for throwing tantrums generally and pissing off her entire crew!"

Add this to a Captain nicknamed Captain Death because you wondered if he was going to try and kill you. Add this to the Captain who thought it was fine to land F15 on a normal basis as there was insufficient time to get more flaps down rather than go around. Add this to the captain who thought adding temp corrections was a waste of time. Add this to the Captains who wont listen to more expereienced FOs suggestions like configuring before descent in Kathmandu or Kabul resulting in numerous higly unstable go arounds ( often mishandled) and add all of that to a company where a couple of instructors had less knowledge than some cadets and even less CRM. (Sidebar there were/are some lovely, oustanding, knowledgeable and helpful captains both male and female there and also some excellent instructors. The captains and instructors mentioned above were by far the minority but they minority was growing unchecked and even in the face of overwhelming evidence nobody cared enough to stop the rot!)

So when you add this to poor rostering for the bottom 50% at least of the airline and poor commensurate pay if you have a family in Dubai.

I suggest you take your attitude and join FZ JonyBG you will be welcomed with open arms. You sound like you will fit right in. In fact apply as a DEC they likely won't notice its not like CRM is a requirement for DECs.

Oh btw if you think there a lot worse places to fly for you havent been around that much. Yes you get paid on pay day, which to be fair I hadnt always had but that was why it was a step up for me. I cannot begin to tell you where my quality of life is now compared to last year this time and it isn't just the money and being widebody in a grown up airline it is actually having a voice!

Re selection DXB isn't a choice, unless things have changed it is SOU/IST and DXB for final interview either way. I suggest you take IST from what you said because I want you to get in you and the airline deserve each other!

Your profile makes no sense to me for wanting to go to FZ at the stage you are at but hey its your life. Ask yourself how many pilots in the last 7 years have left EK to go to FZ and how many the other way and you will likely see I'm with the group vote here but hey it could all just be risky shift eh!

Good luck, you won't need it though!

VT

[Otto Throttle]

Oooottoooo....? You there, pal?
Station calling? Standby, go ahead ��

[simba82]

So with the 737 Max program which is ahead of schedule per Boeing and deliveries for many airlines who have ordered it are looking at getting them earlier ,what has FD opted to do take earlier deliveries or wait till scheduled delivery date?

Also how many 737 Max is FD getting in 2017?

[Dio]

VT

Can you tell us more of your experience? It's not a great picture you paint, is there no appreciation for FO inputs? After all fo's are there to stop Captains from ••••ing it up for all of us???

[dubaigong]

Dio,

I am not sure that you understand the modern flight deck operation...
No " the First Officer is not there to stop Captains from ....ing it up for all of us " and the Captains are not there to stop First Officer from ....ing for all of them either.
Today you have two flight crews with different level of experience on the flight deck to manage the flight , one has the final authority ( the commander ) and the other trying ( most of the time ) to get more experience to be ready for the upgrade on the left.
Appart from that it is two qualified pilots , one acting as pilot flying and the other as pilot monitoring to support the pilot flying and the roles are reversed on the next sector.
I hope you will understand that as it is the only way to fly safe.
It is not ( anymore ) one boss and a slave , people with that state of mind should be banned from any flight deck ( both sides , Captain and First Officer )

[High Energy]

So with the 737 Max program which is ahead of schedule per Boeing and deliveries for many airlines who have ordered it are looking at getting them earlier ,what has FD opted to do take earlier deliveries or wait till scheduled delivery date?

Also how many 737 Max is FD getting in 2017?

First Max 8 arrives in Dubai in July 2017 iso Oct. The initial plan was 4 Max 8's in 2017 but not sure if the earlier deliveries changed the plans. All depends on the DWC move I guess

[simba82]

Hey high energy thanks for the reply so is FD also looking at a hangar space in DWC ?

[High Energy]

Hey high energy thanks for the reply so is FD also looking at a hangar space in DWC ?

No clue to be honest. We don't get told anything detailed regarding DWC.

[too_much]

Best solution for FO's facing a steep authority gradient is to just tell the PIC he is welcome to be PF on both sectors it will save a lot of hassle for you and besides there are tons more flights ahead of you when you will get a more compassionate PIC who appreciates that there is more than one way to fly an aircraft.

From what I hear most of the arguments are about descent and approach at FZ.

There are many different ways and styles to fly a 737 so long as they are safe and within limitations the other flight crew should respect this and not try and intervene with his/her style of flying.

There are more and more ASR's with crew arguments lately only about 30% are being reported and documented.

This type of problem is becoming more and more serious at FZ.

[Yazid]

Hi,
Anyone going for the assessment in 10 of July in DXB?
Any advice for the best way to prepare for the interview from the last ones that have been there?
Thank you

[Vortex Thing]

Thank you Dubaigong!

Dio - If you read my post through you will see that I did make an effort to explain that this culture was a small minority.

The top end of the seniority list has some very very highly experienced and respected instructors, examiners and Captains AND FOs. (I know and have flown with a handful who chose quite specifically to not upgrade for rostering/professional reasons)

Some of these guys have been flying Boeing since Pontius was a pilot and I was honoured to have them bring me on and help me on my joirney in aviation both before, during and now even still after my time at FZ.

Also in the mid and bottom tiers of seniority there are good numbers of more than up to the job pilots by any standards. However there remains a significant and growing majority or more and more recent hires who are clearly demonstrative of the bar having been lowered. For the most the new upgrades were on average better than most of the DECs after a certain hiring point BUT and I caveat this was also lkely to exposure and experience to the region being very very important and DECs coming from one area having not flown to the sort of destinations that are FZ every day stops found themselves lacking and sadly sometimes unwilling to listen to FOs who had flown into same destinations for years.

I remember flying with some great FOs who had been passed over due to clearly arbitrary and spurious subjective CRM markers. The fact was as an FO if you had one of the TREs who was nice/fair you were fairly treated. However if you let's say a certain arabic speaking instructor you could be set back a year for upgrade for not doing something the captain should have done.

Before any one shouts were you one of the afflicted? Nope I merely point it out on behalf of at least 4 good friends all of whom became skippers at FZ and funnily enough. One of those has gone to EK, two to China and another back to UK.

All of them went on to bigger and better things very quickly after having been held bakc for a year when they were by all accounts well above the standard!

But hey what would I know. Im not a TRE!

[too_much]

Where are you flying now VT? Do you miss anything about FZ?

[aimtofly]

I would like to hear from anyone that just did an assessment in IST in the past couple days directly on the sim. Are you still required to go to Dubai for the rest of the group discussion BS or you are pretty much in if you nail the sim and some basic q&a??

[BritishGuy]

Just a final interview in Dubai is it.

[takamasa]

is 1000 hrs on 10 tonnes plane a must for non rated ppl??

[PilotD12]

Anybody recently attended the IST assessment and could give some information..? Is the simulator more or less same as in the UK or different and what questions will be asked on the technical interview? Just to know what I have to prepare..
Thanks for the help!

[LostinT2DXB]

It just amazes me that even with all the info on this board about what a sh1t place this is to work people still are asking for assessment info.

[olster]

I could not agree more: why anyone would join this toxic company - following a hull loss with significant loss of life - beats me.

[ExDubai]

I could not agree more: why anyone would join this toxic company - following a hull loss with significant loss of life - beats me.
Maybe because they need a job.

[olster]

Rather have self - respect.

[ExDubai]

Rather have self - respect.
sounds somehow arrogant to me. It's easy to judge without knowing the personal circumstances. For some people the gig is much better then what they have at home.

[B737SFP]

Or they think it is...

The grass is always greener on the other side, isnt it?

[olster]

Yes, it is certainly easy to judge behind a keyboard - the facts about this company are well documented. Toxic and appalling from all perspectives, now with blood on their hands.

[LostinT2DXB]

Honestly, if the job you have now is worse than flydubai, you need to ask yourself some serious questions and maybe find another path in life. I'm not saying to give up flying, just find another path to your ultimate goal because coming here isn't the answer to your problems people.

[itsgettingworse]

Just in case anyone is really wondering how bad it is..... It has just gotten worse. There's a new 'sick' policy in place which basically prohibits anyone calling sick before or after a day 'off'. Before it was only if you call in sick for more than 2 days on the trot or before/after any leave. Now, you do it pretty much at all, and they'll have you!

Trust me, it's only getting worse.

[Vortac1]

Alright, let's not get carried away. I definitely understand the hate towards the company, I also dislike a lot of things about it, but to type that the company has "prohibited" calling in sick before or after days off is just plain false.

Let's try to keep it at hard cold facts, yes, even the negatives, so people are fully aware of what they will put up with here if they come to FD.

The company has decided to treat their pilots once again as children, by modifying an already ridiculous Sick Policy. Now, if you call in sick before or after days off you are required to present a sick note from the doctor. They're not prohibiting anything, just asking you to bring s Drs note, just like you did when you were 10 years old back in school.

[High Energy]

Alright, let's not get carried away. I definitely understand the hate towards the company, I also dislike a lot of things about it, but to type that the company has "prohibited" calling in sick before or after days off is just plain false.

Let's try to keep it at hard cold facts, yes, even the negatives, so people are fully aware of what they will put up with here if they come to FD.

The company has decided to treat their pilots once again as children, by modifying an already ridiculous Sick Policy. Now, if you call in sick before or after days off you are required to present a sick note from the doctor. They're not prohibiting anything, just asking you to bring s Drs note, just like you did when you were 10 years old back in school.

We should ask ourselfs why they did this. I keep hearing the same rumors that a certain pilot group/nationality keeps saying we have 57 leave days iso 42. Aka 42 leave and 15 sick days to use around the leave period. IF that were true we are making life difficult for ourselfs and you get this respons. I'm not gonna discuss the PBS bidding for days off around leave as it's pointless.

Again, just the messager. NO FACTS.

[Vortac1]

I couldn't agree more. I've also heard about this 57 days of leave thing. I also think we may have brought this one unto ourselves.

Sometimes us pilots are our own worst enemy...

[Luibar]

Now, if you call in sick before or after days off you are required to present a sick note from the doctor.

Well, my present airline has this requirement since it started operations more than 25 years ago.

[BritishGuy]

Every airline has pilots who take advantage of the system. Heck, every company (aviation or not) has a group of people that take advantage of the system. It wouldn't be such a drastic determent to operations in these people were properly staffed.

If you need a day off because of a headache before/after a day off, a Panadol won't do the job anymore. You'll have to give yourself an as*ache too by going to the Dr to get a sick note for the headache. Oh well, I suppose 2 can play at that game. They want a sick note, they'll get the sick note I suppose.

Again, short term plaster (band aid), for a issue they're not really willing to issue (the rosters and staffing issues).

The figures will look fine in the short term, until people get used to it and start calling sick again - and then what? What sort of a 'smack down' will they use then?

I will add however, I do NOT and I condone taking the p*ss with sick days, I'm an adult and the majority of the folks I fly with are. With that said, a genuine one day headache requiring a sick note just doesn't sit well with me.

Funny thing is 'focus groups' and 'ways to make things better' groups are being conducted at this time. For what? For them to pull these sort of stunts on us? Its almost like an olive branch with one hand and a slap in the face with the other.

[Mgggpilot]

Hey guys this is too much now. I have worked for two small airlines not as shiny as you guys are used to. Reporting sick has got to have a report from the doctor approved by the company. After all if you are sick, you are sick. I have never heard of a doctor declaring a sick person fit.

This is not something new to any pilot I suppose. So why would someone come here and start vomiting BS as if he/she is a grade five child?!!

[dubaigong]

The big problem is that there is a big grey area between being sick and being unfit to fly.
The last example is a pilot on the first sector of the day , aligned on the runway for take off , shuting down both engine instead of setting the parking brake !!!

Was he sick ? NO Was he fit to fly ? I doubt it

So I am not sure that a doctor will always declare you "sick" even if you are not fit to fly.

[too_much]

At least it wasn't in flight..

[Luibar]

Well, once after takeoff I called for flaps up and the other guy selected the gear down :ooh:

[RandyBMC]

Every airline has pilots who take advantage of the system. Heck, every company (aviation or not) has a group of people that take advantage of the system. It wouldn't be such a drastic determent to operations in these people were properly staffed.

If you need a day off because of a headache before/after a day off, a Panadol won't do the job anymore. You'll have to give yourself an as*ache too by going to the Dr to get a sick note for the headache. Oh well, I suppose 2 can play at that game. They want a sick note, they'll get the sick note I suppose.

Again, short term plaster (band aid), for a issue they're not really willing to issue (the rosters and staffing issues).

The figures will look fine in the short term, until people get used to it and start calling sick again - and then what? What sort of a 'smack down' will they use then?

I will add however, I do NOT and I condone taking the p*ss with sick days, I'm an adult and the majority of the folks I fly with are. With that said, a genuine one day headache requiring a sick note just doesn't sit well with me.

Funny thing is 'focus groups' and 'ways to make things better' groups are being conducted at this time. For what? For them to pull these sort of stunts on us? Its almost like an olive branch with one hand and a slap in the face with the other.
BritishGuy - it's funny to hear they have groups to make things better today. Back in 2010 I was tasked with the same thing. I gathered lots of information, had meetings at the highest level, was reassured things would change, etc. I left three years later.

You can have all the focus groups you like, but if no action is taken on the (obvious if we're honest) recommendations, then really they aren't worth doing in the first place. You end up jading the people that actually believe a difference can be made.

[LostinT2DXB]

RandyBMC! What are you doing here man! You've escaped, don't try to swim back to Alcatraz!

[dubaigong]

Hi Randy ,

Nice to hear about you , I hope you are well and happy back home...

[Eaglerj]

Hey Guys !

I just cancel my participation on Assessment Day for FZ. I went through the online application, the online assessment and the video interview. But, I won't be able to get all the documentation required by the Assessment day (License Verification Letter), so I just sent an email to cancel my participation. Maybe, I'll try again later.

Also, so comments here changed my mind about FZ. I also thought that I was not readY yet to take this assessment, because I didn't prepare myself for this. So, the LPJ is the only way for a good preparation for those screening process?

I've read most of the posts about FZ here and I also tried to get in touch with some pilots that are currently flying there. The funny thing is: The only one I could get in touch with, didn't want to talk about FZ. The Pilot simply didn't answer my questions. But, after all of that, I am not sure if FZ is a good place to work for or not... That question doesn't leave my head when I think about FZ.

I really would like to fly the 737. I would go to FZ for the type rating and to have the experience flying in ME. But, I am not sure the price for this would be worth it related to family, etc.

I'm an Airline FO flying the A320, but I would like to get a type rating flying a Boeing aircraft, something I always wanted, but I never had the opportunity to get.

As I am in doubt about FZ... I went around, now I'll decide to go the alternate or to try another approach !

For those that are taking the assessment...Good luck, if you are sure about what you want and where you want to be !

[Eaglerj]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uHwS4Hmf7A

[High Energy]

Hey Guys !

I just cancel my participation on Assessment Day for FZ. I went through the online application, the online assessment and the video interview. But, I won't be able to get all the documentation required by the Assessment day (License Verification Letter), so I just sent an email to cancel my participation. Maybe, I'll try again later.

Also, so comments here changed my mind about FZ. I also thought that I was not readY yet to take this assessment, because I didn't prepare myself for this. So, the LPJ is the only way for a good preparation for those screening process?

I've read most of the posts about FZ here and I also tried to get in touch with some pilots that are currently flying there. The funny thing is: The only one I could get in touch with, didn't want to talk about FZ. The Pilot simply didn't answer my questions. But, after all of that, I am not sure if FZ is a good place to work for or not... That question doesn't leave my head when I think about FZ.

I really would like to fly the 737. I would go to FZ for the type rating and to have the experience flying in ME. But, I am not sure the price for this would be worth it related to family, etc.

I'm an Airline FO flying the A320, but I would like to get a type rating flying a Boeing aircraft, something I always wanted, but I never had the opportunity to get.

As I am in doubt about FZ... I went around, now I'll decide to go the alternate or to try another approach !

For those that are taking the assessment...Good luck, if you are sure about what you want and where you want to be !

Send me a PM and I'll answer your questions. No problem.

[galbi_c]

Someone mentioned that the education assistance kicks in from age 3 but the flydubai packet states age 4. Who is right?

And can anyone confirm the per diem rate? Pilotjobsnetwork states 125Aed/hr which is too high to be true.

[Eaglerj]

Galbi c,

Education Allowance is for up to 3 children (between 4 and 18 years old) for full-time school in UAE, primary or secondary school. Which can include fees for registration, other costs related to it.

Primary is 40k AED/year
Secondary is 60K AED/year

[Pin Head]

Hi

Please can some say what time to command is?

Kind regards

Pin

[High Energy]

Hi

Please can some say what time to command is?

Kind regards

Pin

If you are lucky from 18 months up to several years. Depends on your experience level and how you get marked in the sims. Any 'acceptable' CRM behavioural marker and you'll automatically have to wait 1 year. (2 sims without any acceptable markers) THE main reason FO's that are ready give up and leave. The system is wrong, everyone knows it but it just doesn't change. Don't think it will ever change to be honest.

I think on average time to command seems to be 2 - 2.5 years. We didn't have any new aircraft joining in the last 9 months but quite a few people left. We got 2 new aircraft yesterday and another 6 to go this year. Add the resignations to that and you might upgrade quickly.

It's also not seniority based. If you meet the requirements you can apply. Irrespective of seniority.

Captains's flight pay is 187 aed per block hr. School allowance can be claimed from 3 yrs onwards. (that's not what your contracts states though but you'll get it)

[LostinT2DXB]

I'll just say it. Several FOs got dinged with these CRM markers that should have not been dinged. However, there are more than several that were dinged appropriately! You either know your sh1t or you don't. Don't show up for a sim unprepared! Yeah, sometimes you get a sh1ty sim partner DEC than can't speak English and fly the sim at the same time.....just too challenging I guess but good enough to be a line PIC lol. Show up, know your job, and upgrade will be smooth. Don't expect anyone to do your job or save your life at this hole.

[allison]

Good Evening Folks,
Its a big decision for me and i feel that i must make a post. I am a training captain on the B738 and FlyDubai is a real option for me as a DEC, and so is Emirates, Qatar and Etihad (when they hire non type rated again) but of course as an FO. I am looking for a long term job. My children are 2 and new born. I am South African and therefore as a new father my responsibilities are towards my family and financial freedom. Those who know will understand. Any constructive information will be much appreciated. Thank you all in advance for your repy.

[Vortex Thing]

Allison - Hoe gaan dit?

Simple answer. If you have options in QR, EK, EY and have two children. DO NOT even think about FZ. You may be, "worked to death" in the other firms but at least your family will have decent healthcare, education, money and security. FZ is now a place where you would only go given no choice. If you have choices go elsewhere!

I can guarantee you one thing if you choose FZ the you choose to be a second class citizen in UAE aviation!

Too much - You know where I am! And you know you are going to follow! China longhaul! Do I miss anything, yes most of the great crew, EPC/APC functions, brunches, huge amount of on tap aircrews to party with them and thier families, on the other hand I don't miss :

Decreasing relative pay, NCC, American Mgt, CPs PA cum deity's attitude to pilots, huge standard level differences between instructors, lack of standardization, lack of application of procedures, car parking scenario, being a 2nd class citizen to EK, my family not being important, Dubai's numerous quirks (RTA, visa process, knowledge fees, treatment of workers, banks, du, etisalat, DEWA, the low standard of every single service in Dubai in all the places I just mentioned, the general frustration of simple day to day tasks)

The reality was when I was taking bucket loads of cash I didn't mind a commensurate amount of crap as I took it as par for the course. However as the cash stood still and the outgoings grew it did not stay commensurate. Now I get a larger bucket full of cash 20/10 comute to my happy family at home and all the local bull**** is done for me by the airline. Yes I still had to stand around for hours in police stations, civial avaition and jump through hoops but the hoops are well catered and not school yard level, most importatnly my family aren't subjected to it.

It feels as if I graduated to the real world and cannot believe I ever let Dubai make me think I was where I should be for my family and future when you can have it all if you commute. Good pay, good roster, long haul, great planes, great engineering, OCC who listen to the pilot first and get their postion as advisors not tellers. I never have to argue about fuel, weather options inflight contingency, I have a rigid SOP which every pilot follows to the letter, no interpretation, just by the book every time.

I simply cannot believe that any pilot, with a choice, would now that FZ has matured choose it over the ME Big 3. Yes they whinge on EK pages too but that is mostly because they do not know how good they have it! The reality is that my life was heavly intertwined with both airlines when I was in DXB. In fact I had more friends in EK than FZ and there is simply no reason to stay in FZ if EK is an option.

For those who cite quick command, yep I thought that and that was my main driver in FZ over QR, EY which i had as options when I joined FZ but even that makes no difference in the long run.

At the end of the day unless you are a high hour FO who wants a quick command to take and run away as a DEC to China or somewhere similar there is very very little gain if none in FZ. It simply isnt worth what comes with it.

Too much, high energy, lostint2, transport jock, dubaigong, GSXTY, Old King Coal, Randy BMC have enough stories to make your toes curl! In fact if we got together and wrote a book it would for sure become a Hollywood epic. I remember a very very good conversation with RandyBMC in person in 2012 about the future of FZ considering he was an instructor and how they treated him which caused him to finally take his leave what he said to me could not have been more prophetic.

I wish I had listened to him tell it how it was then and left for an opportunity that I have now ended up, as if full circle, in anyway! Suffice to say that is life. If only someone like RandyBMC was in the big seat rather than the incompetent idiot JV then then perhaps one more crew would be alive and the airline would not be in freefall. But hey that's just my view! And I have voted with my feet. In fact we are now days away from the anniversary of my resignation and FZ is becoming that bad dream that you arent sure if it was true or not.

Get yourselves to China chaps at least come and look, you will be pleasantyl surprised!

[Saltaire]

VT

Get yourselves to China and commute? Really?

Notwithstanding your honest first hand feedback of FZ, I don't think China is the place for any longer term plans. A stop gap perhaps or for those close to retirement.

Flown with many who have flown in China and very few stay longer than a few years before packing it in. I guess the odd left seat contract from your home base could work but not sure how many positions of that type are available.

Sad to hear about the degradation of FZ and specifically that tragic accident, but was it ever the first choice in the region? Short haul/night/turn arounds are never going to be wildly appealing. I think your thoughts on a quick command and moving on are accurate. Otherwise, EK,EY,QR are much better longer term options, even starting as an FO- no doubt.

[ifly462]

Can an FO from FZ be hired by any of the other airlines in the UAE? What are your realistic chance of being hired by EK if you work for FZ? How soon can you cross over?

[Vortex Thing]

Ifly462 EK will take you direct if you have 3 yrs in FZ. You can literally finish FZ on one day and start at EK the next. I personally know 9 pilots who have gone direct from FZ to EK.

However going from FZ to QR or EY is not so easy. Technically you need 12 clear months without a UAE visa. The rule of course is unwritten. However I had personal experience of going through selection post FZ to be told, oh sorry we just noticed you're FZ come back in 12 months!

Allegedly you basically need to leave UAE or work in a non airline job to fufill this criteria. I know of one who went to ET for a year and did indeed them move from EK to EY. ( The same rule applies to them.)

This is why I urge peope to choose wisely as movement from FZ is basically only directly available to EK and that only after 3 years by which time you will either have just got command or be very close and then likely will not want to move until you have got 300 then 500 then 1000 then 1500hrs.

Then unless you move as an SFI as 4 of the 9 mentioned above did you move back to being an FO but on longhaul. Granted yes you have the 737 PIC to fall back on but in 5 yrs time when you were once a captain on B737 and you are now a 4000hr FO on B777/787 then you are still an FO if you decide to move to a new airline or if your sandbag of crap is full.

Join longhaul now if you are headed that way in the long run and you will be a longhaul captain quicker. You wont have a problem getting a job at home with a longhaul command under your belt but the opposite isn't true.

From my point of view I always wanted longhaul but I wanted a quick command as a back up.

[High Energy]

Qatar seems to be accepting flydubai pilots suddenly on the 777. It all depends on what the airlines want. They can bend any of their rules to suit their needs. You just need to be in the right place at the right time and have some luck on your side. EY is still a no-go but again that can change at any time.

[donpizmeov]

You are always very passionate about your views VT. It's been interesting to see them change. Glad you finally caught up. Helo pilots are not known for their fast thinking, but they can lift heavy things.

[Old King Coal]

Update from Sardinia (here on contract here for next few months, and loving it): Am presently down by the quayside, drinking a beer (several, actually), eating salami (of the real porcine variety no less!), watching some scorchingly hot women (whom are evidently wearing very little) walking by,... I dwell back to my time in the sandpit and wonder why, oh why, did I put up with that crap for so long?!

Q) Best thing I ever did in the sandpit?

A) Leave it!

Listen well to VT, he speaks wise words!

[donpizmeov]

Good hear OKC

[Trimmaster]

After submitting the video how long is the wait to be assigned an assessment date?

[Eaglerj]

Send me a PM and I'll answer your questions. No problem.
Hey, High Energy !

I sent you the email. Looking forward to hear from you !

Thanks !

[matr72]

Hello everyone,
I have just completed my video interview. I had only one question "tell me about yourself" . Is it the normal interview? I saw that some of you had 3 questions?
Thank you for your help

[PilotD12]

Interesting.. They asked me 3 questions during the video interview. Why you, why flydubai and tell us about yourself.. Im going next week for the assessment day in Istanbul. They informed me it should be a simulator and technical interview. Is there anybody who did the assessment in Istanbul and could provide information regarding the technical interview?
Cheers

[dubaigong]

While you are in Istanbul for the interview , ask them what has happened in Rostov on Don where they have crashed an Aircraft Killing more than 60 people and what has been done since then in the company to avoid it in the future ?

[LostinT2DXB]

Also ask how many pilots have quit just in 2016. Ask if the company even cares how many have quit.....

[ifly462]

what are the chances of going DEC from FZ to EK? Has it ever been done?

[matr72]

Does anyone have up to date informations about the 3 days assessment in Dubai?

[jayjay340]

Matr check ur pm

[babydash_83]

wanted to thank some of the members of this group who have helped me. I have been accepted and offered a class date with FlyDubai in fall 2016. I am super excited on my career opportunity. I would like some assistance if possible as to what to expect in training and how i can prep myself for the training program as I am coming from the regionals in the USA. Appreciate any feedback. Thank you fellow aviators.

[LostinT2DXB]

Here is the best advise: DONT WORK FOR THIS AIRLINE.

Even after a hull loss, even after reading things are only getting worse, after being told about 20% of the pilot group has resigned in the last 8 months......you still think this is a good option.

I give up.

[ifly462]

LostinT2dxb There are two things in this world you'll never find;

1 - a perfect wife

2 - a good airline to work for on PPRune.

Every arline i visit on pprune pilots are SCREAMING donot work here!!! so where exactly should us up and coming pilots work? I have friends who work for EK FZ qatar and ethiad and are all happy and content with their lives. Id never come on here to take advice on where to work from people ive never met. Id prefer to ask someone who has a similar background to myself to hear their POV. This thread is about flight deck positions for FZ. Quite frankly half of you guys on here are quite spoiled to be completely honest. You complain about flying 85 hour rosters for 9k a month plus housing and subsidies for your kids education while being shuttled to work and being fed, You have forgotten about the rest of us in the real work flying 90 to 100 hours a month making 3 grand a month after taxes with no allowances.

You have forgotten about the rest of us who fly Piston engine aircrafts for 15 sectors a day with no lunch breaks.

You have forgotten about us who fly for commuter airlines who's turbo prop engines fail once a month

You have forgotten about the instructors who train students who couldnt land a 152 on a 12000 foot runway trying to get to that ATP

You have forgotten about the guys who are out of work and have a family to feed.

Almost every major airline has experienced hull loss.
If i read you the new terms United sent out to its workers 2 weeks ago with regards to FDP's that my buddy working their emailed me im sure you'd go on your little rant over on the united website also.

Dont forget where you came from and what you had to do to get there. Others will do what they have to do until they can do better.

If they go to FZ, BA, AA, or EK and they donot like it.. they leave, its that simple. Quit acting like because YOU say donot go to this airline means People wont. THEY DONOT KNOW YOU.

The last airline i flew with there were people just like you saying the exact same things. It was the absolute opposite. The airline was well organised, Everything ran smoothly. Request were always granted speedily and without any hassles. experiences differ based on who you are as an individual, your path and your background.

That being said whoever goes to FZ i wish you guys nothing but success. Make the best of it and always remember things can always be worse. If it becomes unbearable, donot sacrifice your safety or integrity, Leave. YOU HAVE A CHOICE. Donot complain about it on here make a change, Only you can control you.

cheers

[sascha410]

Bravo ifly462!!
Your post should be framed and put on the front page of pprune.
Take care.

[High Energy]

Thanks ifly462!

Inherently it's easier and more socially acceptable to put someone down or talk bad about the (any) airline. It's hard to stand up and put some perspective on things. Talking positive is a big no no.

I've worked for a major and I've lost my job at another legacy, had no money to feed the family and no future prospects due to a 'useless' typerating. Been there, done that. Dark times.

Now I make loads of money in the left seat, fly an awesome plane and have a great set of collegues. I'm not tired (yes you can re-read that again!) and see my family every day. I've got no desire to leave. I do love it here. It works for me and my family. If it doesn't work for 'you' personally then just leave. No shame in doing so and no pride lost. No company is perfect and flydubai is no exception. But it works for me. I do see several areas for improvement (I'm not blind nor stupid) but I've got no control over those and the higher powers don't want to change it. I know that and willingly accept that. If I didn't I'd leave.

Just my 0.02c. Read to be shot down as usual.

[8899]

Interesting.. They asked me 3 questions during the video interview. Why you, why flydubai and tell us about yourself.. Im going next week for the assessment day in Istanbul. They informed me it should be a simulator and technical interview. Is there anybody who did the assessment in Istanbul and could provide information regarding the technical interview?
Cheers
Hi PilotD12,

Did you have any information regarding your question!? - If so, do you mind to share (PM are more than welcome)

[8899]

Matr check ur pm
jayjay340 ....do you mind to share your knowledge with me? (pm are also welcome)

Cheers

[LostinT2DXB]

I can't respond to everything, but I want to respond to the hull loss comment.

Yes, airlines have accidents, however most airlines implement changes or address safety short falls. That hasn't happened here at FZ. It's business as usual, just more meetings to discuss possible changes.

No one is saying you can't accept this job, or that it isn't better than what you have currently. Just if you work here understand that in 7 years this airline has not improved to a level to keep over 20% of the pilot group from leaving in a 7 month period. Attrition is not opportunity for up and coming pilots, it should be a Red Master Warning with alarm bells.

And stop being a management brown nose a$$ licker by saying if you don't like it leave. Our scab chief pilots has that engraved on his cars number plate already.

[ifly462]

I can't respond to everything, but I want to respond to the hull loss comment.

Yes, airlines have accidents, however most airlines implement changes or address safety short falls. That hasn't happened here at FZ. It's business as usual, just more meetings to discuss possible changes.

No one is saying you can't accept this job, or that it isn't better than what you have currently. Just if you work here understand that in 7 years this airline has not improved to a level to keep over 20% of the pilot group from leaving in a 7 month period. Attrition is not opportunity for up and coming pilots, it should be a Red Master Warning with alarm bells.

And stop being a management brown nose a$$ licker by saying if you don't like it leave. Our scab chief pilots has that engraved on his cars number plate already.

Your response isn't very becoming of a professional.I defintely wouldnt be taking advice from someone who is so quick to anger. You can call me whatever name you want to it doesn't affect me. I'm here to converse I'm really not into the name calling. If you don't like it shouldn't you leave? I guess you should stick around just to complain on here. I wasn't satisfied with my last job and it's working conditions so I left. Do you think FZ and EK are the only two airlines pilots are leaving in droves? My buddy at air Europa is complaining about the hours they fly and their constant delay's / change in rosters

my buddy at BA is complaining about his pension package and upgrade time

my buddy at United is complaining about flight duty limitations and reserve /standby duty pay, and the list can go on. There's no perfect airline man. none. I understand your concern's but if you dont feel like enough has been done about the hull lost to your satisfaction you can either try to implement change or you can leave. That's not management ass licking, it's called not stressing your dam self out over things you can't change. Vortex left and now he's happy in China, and that's basically it. Find the situation that's best for you and ride it out. You may not be happy but others just might be.

We need to treat each other with respect. Even though we may not agree with the path someone is choosing or the decision they have made, you don't know their history or what they've been through.

Happy flying

[dubaigong]

ifly462,

You are right , everybody has his own experience and should be free to join any company he or she wants.
The only thing that starts to irritate me , though , is those new joiners who start to complain on the flight deck after less than one year in the company when they have been warned before joining and have ignored what was said on this website.
So you are all very welcome to join but , please , once here don't ruin my day on the flight deck telling me how tired you are , how bad the roster is , in general how bad this company is etc...

Concerning your friends at BA or United complaining , this a different level.
Human being , once their basic needs are fullfilled , starts to want more and will always start to complain at a certain point even when very well treated BUT this another story.
I have also been working for a legacy Airlines and despite the fact that the pilots were flying on average 65 to 75 hours a month , well paid , good loss a licence insurance fully paid by the company , etc were complaining BUT there were not leaving the company in numbers like here.
People will always be looking to get more that's in human nature.

[FlyingTinCans]

All pilots complain and I agree that pprune is just a small section of the worldwide pilot group who are on an endless task of trying to find airline nirvana.

However, don't use it as an excuse to disregard all the bad points that are written about FZ.

Yes, guys in BA, AA moan about pension schemes. EK moan that their profit share should have been 8 weeks instead of 4.

Guys in FZ don't moan about that stuff because they are too busy discussing that another destination they fly too is in middle of a war zone. I used to have conversations on the flight deck where we almost justified flying to Erbil "isn't that bad" because the timings are during the day. In context Erbil is less than 20nm form Mosul, the current de facto capital of ISIS.
That is FZ in a nutshell, things are so bad when it comes to rostering, night flying, and general security around the route network that places like Erbil, Kabul, Quetta are actively bid for.

Go to FZ so you can scratch your itch to fly big shiney jets, but don't bring your family, don't buy a house, don't get a loan, because in 2 years that itch will have been scratched, all hope and dedication will have been sucked out of you by the endless stupidity of the airline and the city it's based in. You will then be uprooting your family again to move somewhere else, and if you joined as an FO and don't get your command you will have no money in your pockets either.

[ifly462]

All pilots complain and I agree that pprune is just a small section of the worldwide pilot group who are on an endless task of trying to find airline nirvana.

However, don't use it as an excuse to disregard all the bad points that are written about FZ.

Yes, guys in BA, AA moan about pension schemes. EK moan that their profit share should have been 8 weeks instead of 4.

Guys in FZ don't moan about that stuff because they are too busy discussing that another destination they fly too is in middle of a war zone. I used to have conversations on the flight deck where we almost justified flying to Erbil "isn't that bad" because the timings are during the day. In context Erbil is less than 20nm form Mosul, the current de facto capital of ISIS.
That is FZ in a nutshell, things are so bad when it comes to rostering, night flying, and general security around the route network that places like Erbil, Kabul, Quetta are actively bid for.

Go to FZ so you can scratch your itch to fly big shiney jets, but don't bring your family, don't buy a house, don't get a loan, because in 2 years that itch will have been scratched, all hope and dedication will have been sucked out of you by the endless stupidity of the airline and the city it's based in. You will then be uprooting your family again to move somewhere else, and if you joined as an FO and don't get your command you will have no money in your pockets either.
I have been flying jets for quite some time my brother, no shinny jet itch here. As I've said before every situation is dependant on the person itself. To be quite honesthe I'll quote something my father taught me as a kid. If you can't survive on 10 dollars, you won't be able to on 100. You have to make whatever you have work for you and live within your means. My family and I survived on 3000 a month when rent was half of that and my wife was unemployed with 3 kids to feed. There's absolutely no way an FZ salary won't work for us. The rosters were a lot tougher also.

The destinations are definitely a cause for concern and there's no way around it working for FZ. so the only way to avoid it is not signing up for a job at FZ. it drives me nuts to know everyone knows where the cmpany flies to then complain about the destinations after accepting the job! Anyway as I said before the only person who can control me is ME! If I'm not happy in a situation or I feel the safety of meach and my family is being jeopardised I am going to LEAVE. It's that simple. I understand everything you guys are saying on here and I appreciate it but the constant negative post while you guys refuse to leave the situation just doesn't make sense to me

[too_much]

Ifly there are many resigning myself included, you will see once you arrive what all the fuss is about enjoy.

[FlyingTinCans]

Ifly, I did leave & for the exact reasons you mentioned.

Many have left, many are in the process of leaving, the attrition rate is huge, because guys are doing exactly what you say you would do.

But if you want to sign up for a $36,000 bond and 3 years to realise everything that has been posted is true then good luck.

And I didn't say you can't survive on an FZ salary. You can survive, but many come to Dubai to save for a better future, a family on an FO salary struggles to saves any meaningful amount.

[imedi]

IFLY, there's no way to no about the destinations before getting here. It's one thing to say we fly to BGW. It's another thing for a crew to say "oh I flew to an airport while the airport was presently being under attacked and the company knew it was under siege and didn't bother to cancel the flight or tell us" When I joined I thought, ok this company must have a security department and we are going to take precautions. For example, I think the decision to fly to erbil is day to day based on security. But nobody tells you in the interview that the security department is complacent.

[SmilingKnifed]

Guys, I'm not a frequent poster so you can take it that I'm only posting here to repeat, verbatim, the comment I wrote on my exit survey when I left FZ recently.

Unless there is a fundamental change in both culture and leadership within Flight Operations, flydubai will suffer another hull loss in the near future.

I made the exact same comment, with verifiable examples of eroded safety culture to our CEO during a meeting. All I were received were rebuttals and platitudes, with some folksy-American wisdom about flyin' jets thrown in. Nothing will change in this company as the all-powerful commercial department have no wish to see change. Those who could effect change have no interest as they'll soon sign non-disclosure agreements and accept their payouts. The only guy who kicked against this was a safety manager who recently resigned in disgust.

If you can accept the level of risk that flydubai thinks is appropriate, then I wish you the best of luck in your career there. You're braver than I am.

[ifly462]

Ifly462,
According with your nickname, Correct me if I am wrong I guess you were flying in spanish Air Force, I will not lose, if I bet 462 squadron.
If you want to join FZ , do it but Don't complain later , probably you think you are smarter than the others.
good luck
very wrong. Sorry

[pole shift]

FZ is a company where you would have to go along with many things to survive. It's all mentioned somewhere but in a nutshell, war zones, night flying, fatigue, incompetent rostering, which is attributed to the bidding system, etc.
Get used to that, and don't let your self feel a second class pilot when some other people will work only 8 days per month, and you 22. Focus on the positive side, i.e the high salary and benefits, the good things you can have in Dubai, the good colleagues you will fly with.
But definitely there will be a day when you feel that you need to move on. A day that you would have had enough of what is going on, not from the airline only but from being in Dubai itself. And then it's time to go. But do so in a nice way, you never know if you would be back one day.

[polaris79]

hi guys, this is probably the wrong place, however has anyone been invited for an assessment end of Aug in DXB by any chance?

[ifly462]

hi guys, this is probably the wrong place, however has anyone been invited for an assessment end of Aug in DXB by any chance?
This is definitely the wrong place. This is a place where to speak negatively or discourage newcomers about ANY job with ANY airline they wish to seek info on on here. If you need information on upcoming screenings visit the forum at latestpilotjobs.com

[polaris79]

haha.. thnx bud.. Yeah Im onto them.. Just trying to make contact with fellow nutcrackers still wishing to join the FZ arabian dream!!

[LNAV737]

Ok I've been following this thread before i joined FZ some posts are true some are bit too exaggerated.However I've been with FZ for a while now and i would like to share my opinion.Speaking in GENERAL FZ is well behind EK,QR,EY who's the best i don't know but that doesn't matter now.....does it look much more attractive and better before joining ? YES IT DOES.Well one can see that company isn't the best place to be but still it's a fair job.If u are senior enough probably this is one of the best 737 jobs but if u are not then the reality is different.Simply u can't do it on a long run not because u don't want to it's because you CAN'T ...lots of nights and not many days OFF makes u tired.Lack of benefits is also something to consider.Judging the amount of people leaving this airline also tells u that the things aren't great,especially the fact some senior Captains going to EK to be FO's after couple of years flying on the left seat,but that's individual decision more or less may not be associated to FZ i guess.Understaffed for a while now makes u fly around 90 h per month 8-10 days OFF in average.Family people will certainly find it different then the single ones.to live in a nice place with kids will not be enough money wise..not saying that u will not survive but taking in account the school allowance and all other expenses u won't be able to save much.So in order to save some money the secret is to live in some not so attractive place surrounded by sand then most likely You'll be fine.If u are single and smart enough you can make the best out of it i guess.I don't want to discourage anyone who wants to come but if i could choose againg probably i would rather give priortiy to some long haul operators around first.Do i think that this is a good job to join as a DEC ? NO definitely not.This is a good place for people looking to get 737 rating with possible quick command....even though the whole upgrade process is far from good and it's more based on the LUCK and LOTTERY it's still worth trying.So generally not that bad but far from perfect.....depends on each one of us and our goals i guess...good luck and safe flying.:ok:

[Mgggpilot]

Hi everyone,
I did apply for FZ and did only one online question and psychometric. All I get from FZ every now and then is emails with lines below;
As a member of flydubai's Talent Community, we want to alert you to open positions in your area(s) of interest. Find out more about the job(s) that we thought might be of interest to you by simply clicking on the links below. Alternatively you can search through one of our #######

Any idea how long I have to wait till good or bad news?

[simba82]

Seems like Mombasa and Nairobi are on the radar for Flydubai

[Sagal]

Hello fellows,
Could anybody suggest in which area of Dubai is it better to look for an apartment for a new joiner to Flydubai? FO with family, 2 kids.
Need to convert to local driving license so driving is not an option in the beginning

[Vortex Thing]

If you are European, British or most commonwealth then you can drive on any licence in the UAE. Until you become resident. As soon as you are a resident you need a UAE licence not to drive but only to insure a car. So if you rent a car you can still drive on your licence if you are from the above countries (as does everyone on holiday who needs to rent a car)

If you have a family and 2children I would suggest you want a house not an apartment and I had colleagues live in Mirdiff, DSO, The Villa, Falcon City, Victory Heights, Arabian Ranches and Motor City. There are guys in The Lakes, The Springs, The Greens etc but now that FDB is firmly operating from DWC and DXB I would firmly suggest DSO, The Villa or Arabina Ranches. Just for your commute and also for the childrens schools.

Of course it depends on what sort of quality of life you want and what also you expect but your spouse and children spend a lot of time in thier house and getting an apartment just doesnt seem worth bringing them to Dubai IMHO. As always its all about cost if you think 40-50% of your salary on accomodation is normal (as is normal in UK) then you have a lot of choice. If however you are one of these people who believe that the "accomodation allowance" bears any relation to actual accomodation rather than just a way of keeping your pay element small wrt to your final payment when you leave then by all means please come on here in 12 months time and whinge about how you cant find an apartment for 140,000 per annum that suits your needs and locations!

Re driving if you do not drive in Dubai you life becomes very difficult very quickly you and your spouse need to drive. I know families who didnt have both drive. Their life was a nightmare. You dont want to be getting taxis everywhere you just dont trust me! There is no location in Dubai that allows you to walk to decent shopping AND walk kids to school AND has decent transport links unless your idea of a good school differs from KHDAs.

[Vortex Thing]

Donpizmeov

Not sure I entirely get the sentiment but it is nice to be remembered. I still maintain that life is not as hard in some aspects as many ppruners maintain. As an example I still think those at EK have a much easier life than they believe they do.

I completely understand that things are not as promised but the facts remain. You are not subject to the housing market, you are paid well and you have career options. Personally I really don't think anything much else matters. Being happy, and being treated nicely are niceities. Granted they are free of cost niceities as is respect and professionalism however I don't think that EK is made to fly things they can prove are illegal or dangerous or that they have the sort of risk inherent in FZ destinations. Worked hard, for sure but not illegally (frequently inefficiently but illegally)

I accepted all of those risks until the reward was no longer enough to outweight the gain IN COMPARISON to the career path offered in China.

But it does all depend on what is important to you. To me pay, promotion and prospects outweigh time at home or roster etc. I still do not care how hard I work or what my roster looks like as long as you pay me well enough to compensate me. I tend to find those that complain about time at home or time with family or rosters are those who have the luxury of not needing the money, lucky them!

So to most things my view on DXB and the airlines and life in it have not changed since I arrived. The most dissapointing thing but least surprising thing to me that I learnt was just how little the airlines care about your famies and how they are prepared to treat them to get to you.

The other thing that has changed in my time in Dubai was not so much the cost of living just the fact that the airline when ever given the choice between welfare of pilots/cabin crew/engineers who frankly are the profit element would consistently take the views or needs of office staff to be preeminent. So not to start another discussion on things like parking, staff travel etc but this was in reality the tip of an iceberg that from every way of management can only ever have one outcome and I'm just surprised they have gotten away with it for so long.

I shall watch with interest but not quite so invested from a few time zones away. I personally still cannot understand why so many of you stay. I got what I needed and left. I get the many of you who have no choice as your home countries offer nothing worth returning to but for those of you from US, Europe and commonwealth unless you have less than 10 yrs to retirement I genuinley still dont get why FDB has any pilots in that demographic. I'm sure that someone will post to tell me though :)

[colo18]

Hello guys.

I am currently a Learjet 60 captain making good money (at least I think so) back home. Unfortunately I am divorcing now with 4 kids and my expenses are just too much. (Having 2 places to take care of and such a big family)

Got offered a job as FO in FZ, therefore looking to make the move to Dubai soon. Perhaps I can save 2000 USD from the housing allowance since I will be going by myself. Can I save that much? Also will get some 2000 USD from the school subsidy. So it is an increment of around 4000 a month. They do pay schooling arose right? And if lucky as you said might get a command in 2 years. So that would be another big increase.

Do you know if having a debt in ME will be an issue? I heard you might get in jail as soon as you land. I went to Dubai in November 2014 and nothing happened. But was told something came out in December 2014 that states so. I am afraid now. I have no issues paying back if I can make arrangements with the bank. (Debt was in Qatar)

Any good advice? Thanks in advance!

Cheers

[ExDubai]

If you want to save money from housing "good luck". DXB is "****ty" expensive. Regarding the school allowence, don't know if they pay it if your kids are not in DXB. Saving a lot from the FO salary is "mission impossible". At least from my point of view....

Edit: Having a debt there and coming back is a NoGo!!! At least you need to check in advance if you are in the system. If yes then you need to take some actions.

[too_much]

Colo18 there is a way to save money as an FO in FZ but you need to make some sacrafices to do so.

The first step would be to take a studio apartment up in RAK yearly rent is 25,000 Aed for a nice studio.
https://rak.dubizzle.com/m/property-for-rent/residential/apartmentflat/2016/8/22/wonderful-lagoon-views-from-al-hamra-apart-11/?photos&back=aHR0cDovL3Jhay5kdWJpenpsZS5jb20vbS9wcm9wZXJ0eS1mb3ItcmV udC9yZXNpZGVudGlhbC9hcGFydG1lbnRmbGF0Lz9wYWdlPTk=

Utilities around 1,000 AED per month
Food & drink if modest 3,000 AED per month

You need to allow 1 hour to get to work from this location.

Check prices on Rak dubizzle for al hamra/Marjan island

If you fly close to the max hours your best result is 45,000 Aed per month

Take away your rent + bills and you are left with around 40,000 = 10,900 USD

But don't be fooled to make these savings your living outside of Dubai and your flying near max hours. But my point is it can be done if you take these steps

[Hakeem]

Dear aviators,

Greetings,

I tried applying for fly DUBAI online for the post of first officer but unfortunately I couldn't apply online because I already have an old application which was applied back in 2013 for the post of second officer.

When I try to update my application it keep saying that I already have registered account please update the details. But I don't remember the user name and password and I couldn't retrieve it at all.

When I try to get them through tech support email it's not delivered which was told by e mail through so called post master fly DUBAI.

I would highly appreciate if any of you could help me on this regard.

Thanks.

[colo18]

Thanks a lot for your inputs and advice.

I do appreciate your honesty and the TO DO LIST in order to make good savings.

Cheers guys

[Frez]

I have seeing this being asked some months ago but I have not been able to find an answer. Sorry if I am being repetitive. I have being contacted to do the Online Interview. Any advise, or info? If you want you can send me a PM. Thank you!

[Trimmaster]

Hi for those currently at FZ, do they offer night stop allowance?

[High Energy]

They do give you an allowance. 55 USD (or equivalent in local currency). They are cheeky and only give you one time allowance for longer layovers. (36hrs + i.e.) Despite you have to pay for 2 lunches and perhaps 2 dinners. Never done the long (48+hrs) layovers so don't know how they handle that. Breakfast is included and you don't pay for it.

New layovers starting in Sarajevo, Kiev and Bratislava. Bangkok starting in November too.

[Crashlanding]

Every time I've been on a two day layover I've had two envelopes of 55 or equivalent.

Last two day was in Cmb last month

[Trimmaster]

Thanks a lot guys joining soon!

[Blackbird007]

Can anybody post the latest pay package for Capts and F/Os joining now??
Any info other benefits like medical and travel would be appreciated?
Thanks

[too_much]

Capt top per month $18,000 at max hours
FO top per month $13,000 at max hours

Emirates business class tickets STBY after 6 months
Staff travel on network for up 5 freinds

Per diem $50 per night on layovers

Medical insurance is not bad for your spouse and children

You can claim back a cash ticket to your home country once a year for your spouse and children

You can also claim school fees maximum 3 kids value is around 30,000 and 45,000 AED for high school

42 days annual leave plus 15 paid sick leave days (must supply a medical certificate)

It's worth mentioning that the renumeration is below average for the region and does not compensate for the aggressive schedules and subsquent years that will be taken of your life.

If you where gonna die at 80 naturally after a few years in Flydubai doing the body clock changes you can make that figure 75 or worse

[High Energy]

You can also claim school fees maximum 3 kids value is around 30,000 and 45,000 AED for high school

That should read 44000 AED for primary and 66000 AED for secondary. Other than that there is also stafftravel on Air Arabia.

I've never been at $18000, not even at max hours + dead head pay. Mind you I am not A-scale. 😋 More realistically I'd say for Captains you are looking at $15000. (80 block hrs pay and including housing allowance. Not every one works up to 900 hrs/yr. I'm around 820 hrs/yr at the moment.

My last month with 85hrs and additional housing pay-back was $14600 nett pay. With pay-back I mean the difference between your allowance and what I actually pay in rent. (which in my case is slightly less than the allowance) Hence it's the most I've ever recieved here.

Typically it's better to work without looking at the housing allowance as the end sum depends on your rental price. If you then work with $10900 nett for every month you will not be dissapointed and have an accurate figure to plan with. IMHO.

[Blackbird007]

$13000 is including accommodation ?and how many hours per month when you say max hrs. I understand FZ makes you fly a lot but I'm sure it will be better than flying with EK. And I think guys at FZ are still better of living in Dubai as compared to being in Doha with Qr. Any views and suggestions pls advise

[Rowling]

Please, any advise or info about the online interview?
Thanks in advance!!

[High Energy]

$13000 is including accommodation ?and how many hours per month when you say max hrs. I understand FZ makes you fly a lot but I'm sure it will be better than flying with EK. And I think guys at FZ are still better of living in Dubai as compared to being in Doha with Qr. Any views and suggestions pls advise

$13000 sounds like way too much IMHO. FO salary should be around $11000 incl housing allowance. (85hrs) So work on $7700 nett per month on top of which you'll get your housing allowance. Same principle as with Captains. Maybe one of our FO's can help out with some actual figures...?

[Raptor71]

Hello guys,

I am thinking about joining.

I have some hours on 737 and before that I was flying the dash 8.
I will be coming with my wife and my kid ( 4 years old)

I was thinking about the salary, is it that good as advertised? If you choose an apartment what would be the price in a good area? what about a house ( is it crazy expensive)?
Do I have to lOok to places far the airport?

About the roster, I heard that in the beginning I will be assigned mainly the night flights.
true? if so, how long does it take to get something better?

And eventually, I am 33 and upgrade is something I am looking for.... at the moment what is the situation for the new comers?

Thanks

[Crashlanding]

Okay this is my opinion only.

Money is as good as advertised. But, im no longer married, so I live in a 1 bedroom apartment.

Cost is 85k p/y
Dewa (elect/water) say 5k p/y
Food, I shop in Carrefour or lulus and I cook a lot
Say 12k p/y

Now a place with 2 bedrooms in a decent area then start by doubling what I said, that means also double your Dewa.

If you want nights out, a nanny, maid etc then costs go up quickly.

Flights home, well we are the 2nd class citizen with Emirates so a stanby will have you off loaded first before everyone else. So could get expensive.

If your family are not happy here, then you will have a bad time.

Roster, well lets say they are brutal. After a couple of years mine has finally improved, but that is only for the last 2 months, I expect it to go down hill again.

Holiday, you will be extremely lucky if you see any days off before or after you holiday. Even our most senior FOs and CPTs are lucky to see any day off next to holiday.

Yes you can save money, and ive saved a hugh amount, but no family here, all I gained was a divorce.

Guys you fly with are great.

But again ill say this. If your family are not happy dont come here, you will spend every penny trying to keep them happy, stop the divorce because they never see you, and at the end you could have nothing left to show for your fatigue induced roster.

Imagine doing say 9 18-24 hour rest periods in a row, with each dutie being 8-14 hours. Then if your fortunate a couple nights in a row to finish the month. That was my roster

[Raptor71]

Ok so around 4000 USD for an apartment in a decent area. Is that furbished?
What about a house? Am I dreaming? :)
500 USD for the food for 3. Food does not seem to cost a lot.

that's a good point.500 USD for the car, fuel, phones, elec, water...
.
So still 6000 USD left to enjoy Dubai.

Am I missing something



Food does not seem to cost a lot. that's a good point.

I heard that the roster was crazy.
I have a shot with Ryanair too and the roster seems pretty stable and ok if you do not commute which will be my case.

Then the upgrade, how long does it take at the moment. It is one of the most important factor in my decision.
I have been told 2 years.
Is that realistic?

[Luibar]

I have a shot with Ryanair too and the roster seems pretty stable and ok if you do not commute which will be my case.


You can always join Ryanair gain your command and then apply to FZ as DEC. Looking at expansion expected at Flydubai DECs would be around for a while.
Just my 2 cents. Final decision must always be yours though.

[ReducedThrust]

Hello Every One.

Does any one know when is the next non type rated assessment happening in UAE .
Do they happen every month?

I am currently flying A-320 , I have 1400 hours on 737-400 and ,3500 TT.
I am also applying in Emirates and Etihad.

What are my chances?

Also i need help from people who have already gone through the Skype interview etc etc.

Please PM me.

Thanks in advance.

[Blackbird007]

A furnished apartment costs anywhere from 60k-210k per year.. It all depends on location and bedrooms. Marina is expensive but location is pretty good. Have a look at https://dubai.dubizzle.com/ under the property section to get a feel for prices for apartments, villas and cars etc

Villas will cost you from 110k (2/3 bed) and up. Average 3-4 bed in a good location now costs 135-195k depending on quality/popularity of the area.. Cedar villas in Silicon Oasis is where a lot of the EK guys used to stay but now that they have almost all been moved, has a lot of empty 4 bed villas but they going for 185k per year.. Take into account the bigger the villa the bigger the DEWA bill in the summer... For a 3 bed apartment expect about 1500pm during summer and 600pm during winter.. For a Villa that goes up to +- 1000pm for winter and 2500/3500pm during summer...

Buying groceries and cooking at home with decent quality stuff for a 3 person family shouldn't cost you more than 1500pm. A good car which will cost you say 100k will be about 1800pm in repayments with a 20% deposit. Insurance is paid yearly and should be around 15-3500 depending on type of car. Mobile bill depends on pre paid or contract, but if you want internet at home (if not provided as part of rent) its better to go for a bundle deal which should cost about 600aed (tv/20gig interntet/land line).

Costs start to increase with kids.. School fees should be covered for most schools, but you will probably end up paying out of your pocket for books/uniform/ after school activities/trips/ etc etc.

A trip to the water park will cost 2-300aed per person.. Legoland opening in October a similar price and World of adventure (marvel comics etc) the same.. APC membership card is +- 180 pm to get discounted access to beach clubs and discounts at restaurants etc.

As for command, you need 1000hrs on type, 4000 total, 2 good marks in 2 consecutive simulators (not including your final sim check). Then you can apply.. Then you need to pass an interview. Then 4 sim sessions (2 training 2 tests) and then 20 sectors of line training.. And yes, only 10 of the last 24 guys made it through that..

As for applying at Ryan air first.. Remember Airlines are all about seniority numbers.. Going to Ryan air just to get command to join as a DEC later at FZ will put you 2 years down the line of seniority, which might have a bit impact on your roster/leave bidding etc if/when you do eventually join FZ

Thats my 1 fils worth.
So gaining command and joining from another company is of no advantage as even if your a direct entry captain you will be junior to the junior most First officer. If one fails an upgrade how long a cooling period to reapply for an upgrade?

[too_much]

For FO's it's actually written in the manuals that if you fail a command upgrade you will only be employed as FO for a maximum of 24 months from point of failure. Not sure how strict they adhere to this however.

Depending on the failure issue, the Company will keep the candidate’s contract as First Officer for a maximum of 24 months.

[sudani555]

Dear friends and colleagues..

Good evening ..
Yesterday I received an email from FZ HR ,invited me to attend CTC assessment.
I found here many guys talked about SKYPE interview!
Is it a new selection process ?
Because as far as I know ..The assessment consist of :
Aptitude test
Group exercise
Panel interview
Sim session
Final interview in DXB.

Any info will be great....

your reply highly appreciated..

Thank you..

[PayJay]

how are the schedules there??

[babydash_83]

I will be coming on board as a NTR First Officer in the November class. Wanted to ask if anyone who will be in that class are online here and have looked at places to live during training. I was given two hotels by a FlyDubai captain that have a corporate account and discounted rate for new hire pilots during the tenure period. I believe its the Holiday Inn and Premier Inn at DXB. Anyone have any other housing options or hoteling options which might be more convenient near the training center at DXB. The reason I ask is i would prefer to stay where my classmates are so we can create study groups after class or when we are off from training. Secondly for the seasoned FZ pilots who are there, i have been reading on the last few pages of the forums that upgrade training has a high failure rate recently. My question is how has the failure/pass rate been for the new hire Non Type Rated First Officers lately and how are they as far as giving additional training if required and/or limit of failures they can allow before they terminate you from your position. Im not being negative or doubting my abilities as I have flown for 2 airlines in the USA and know what to expect in a 121 airline in the USA, but this is a new country and new airline in new regulations, so wanted to be familiar and make sure i have all bases covered and prepare well in hand before class. Appreciate the feedback as always.

[sudani555]

Babydash

Would you pls check your PM inbox pls.

[ReducedThrust]

I have received an email from Fly Dubai for the Video Interview. Any one has any information about it ? I have downloaded the app in my IPAD already.

Thanks in advance

[CAP B767]

Please I need advice of any ex Copa Captain flying actually for flydubai.

Rooster examples, days off a month, new captain pay scale and allowances for housing, transport, etc.
Planning to join flydubai . Going with wife. NO kids.

[sudani555]

you can go back and find a lot of information regarding the Vid interview.

Best of luck

[TangoAlpha1]

hey guys
i am invited for the final assesment in dxb. group exercise and interview. 2nd day medical. anyone can hekp with info regarding this pls pm

[airnavigator2001]

I got first email from FZ that I have 5 days to do online assessment. Could anybody give any advice what it is and how to be successful?
Thank you in advance.

[TangoAlpha1]

hey guys, anyone here gone to dxb for the final interview were the group exercises were done, was the PILAPT part of the process. any info will be great,
thanks

[PilotD12]

Somebody in Flydubai knows if there are layovers for crew and on which destinations?

[High Energy]

Somebody in Flydubai knows if there are layovers for crew and on which destinations?

Year roud layovers; Chittagong, Dhaka, Colombo, Prague, Dar Es Salaam and Bangkok.
Seasonal layovers; Sarajevo, Bratislava, Kiev (due winter wx)

[A320CaptDav]

Year roud layovers; Chittagong, Dhaka, Colombo, Prague, Dar Es Salaam.
Seasonal layovers; Sarajevo, Bratislava, Kiev (due winter wx)
Once the MAX arrives I guess you will see many more ...

[Trimmaster]

For guys currently at FZ...How long does it take for a type rated pilot to get on line from reporting to Fully qualify for line flying?

[too_much]

Type rated - time to line broken down
Week 1 - HR paperwork/Uniforms/ID etc
Week 2 - FZ training classrooms SEP/CRM/First Aid
Week 3 - transfer to Emirates CAE for classroom training
Week 4 - exams and IPT training
Week 5 & 6 Simulators
Week 7 & 8 Line training (Saudi Arabian flights are normal)


Plus allow about 10-12 days of contingency delays/planning issues

As a rough guide a type rated pilot should be on line within 10-11 weeks.

Things that would delay this
Failure of technical exam
Failure of sims
Failure of line checks
Failure = extra training = delays

My advise come well prepared and don't expect to be given much leeway in terms of failure.

Sad to say that a few have been lost lately due poor performance with jobs at previous airlines left and no Plan B.

[Trimmaster]

Type rated - time to line broken down
Week 1 - HR paperwork/Uniforms/ID etc
Week 2 - FZ training classrooms SEP/CRM/First Aid
Week 3 - transfer to Emirates CAE for classroom training
Week 4 - exams and IPT training
Week 5 & 6 Simulators
Week 7 & 8 Line training (Saudi Arabian flights are normal)


Plus allow about 10-12 days of contingency delays/planning issues

As a rough guide a type rated pilot should be on line within 10-11 weeks.

Things that would delay this
Failure of technical exam
Failure of sims
Failure of line checks
Failure = extra training = delays

My advise come well prepared and don't expect to be given much leeway in terms of failure.

Sad to say that a few have been lost lately due poor performance with jobs at previous airlines left and no Plan B.

It looks relaxed and 8 weeks is a short time 😎😎😎😎. Most procedures im sure are more or less the same, no much difference from Boeing normal procedures.

[pilot2927]

Hello,
Anyone went through the DFW assessment last few days?
Any feedback please?
What to expect?
How many showed up in your assessment?
What kind tests?
Is flyDubai doing the whole thing now?
How is the sim?
Thanks in advance
Cheers

[Lepo]

Changes in the UAE license conversion requirements demand now that pilots with less than 1500h on multi-crew aircraft need to do all the 14 theory exams in order to convert their licenses into a GCAA one.

So if you have less than 1500h on Airbus/Embraer/Boeing aircraft and get hired by flydubai you will have to do all the 14 EASA like theory exams in order to convert your license.

The airline is releasing the new hires on this situation from all activities and is giving them 3 months to study for the exams.
The salary will be paid regularly during those 3 months.

[Lepo]

Nope, even full ICAO ATPL pilots who have less than 1500h on multi-crew aircraft are now required do to all the 14 theory exams.

It's not about the total hours amount, but the amount on multi-crew aircraft.

This is a recent change in the requirements from the GCAA.

[A320CaptDav]

Yes its Correct! 14 EXAMS if you less than 1500hrs MULTI- CREW PILOT TIME

[LivingINtheDream]

Can anyone shed some light on the DEC sim assessment?

[babydash_83]

When you say multi crew pilot time on airbus, boeing or embraer? Are you also meaning to say that every new hire who has time on smaller aircraft but have over 1500TT with a full ATPL have to go for all the 14 exams. And when i say smaller aircraft, i mean regional airline size planes like Saab 340, Dash 8, B1900D. I believe there all still multi-crew.

[sudani555]

Anyone going to DXB for December assessment venue .....?

Pls contact me at
[email protected]

[Groundeffect737]

I am planning to join among you guys around april 2017. Is there any 737 type rated captains who can tell me about assessment processes? If there is somebuddy to help its much appreciated to use pm. I wish good luck to everybody..

[Captain CRJ]

Can any one please shed some light on a typical monthly roster of a new joiner after released from a line check.
Days off a month, flying hours expected, day/night, etc ?

[High Energy]

Can any one please shed some light on a typical monthly roster of a new joiner after released from a line check.
Days off a month, flying hours expected, day/night, etc ?

Flew with a guy who got released a few months ago and his roster was 'ok-ish' according to him. Min days off, 80 block hrs and 8 deep night flights. Another guy here 1.5yrs had the same and dreaded his roster. A mate of mine here 4-6 months had a good roster though. So if they use a 'secret' rotational system or he is just more clever at bidding I don't know. A lot of the time it's a mattar or personal choice/attitude and how one bids. In any case expect at least 3 deep night flights, min days off and some warzones and double sector days.

[Crashlanding]

I used to get 5-8 Deep nights flip flopping with 18hrs rest, either 8 or 9 days off, depending where I was in my 8 off in 28 days cycle

Now a few years in, I get 3 deep nights and 8 or 9 days off.
This improvement has only been in the last 3 months

[Lepo]

When you say multi crew pilot time on airbus, boeing or embraer? Are you also meaning to say that every new hire who has time on smaller aircraft but have over 1500TT with a full ATPL have to go for all the 14 exams. And when i say smaller aircraft, i mean regional airline size planes like Saab 340, Dash 8, B1900D. I believe there all still multi-crew.
babydash,

I believe any kind of multi-crew aircraft is considered, not only the bigger ones like Airbus/Boeing/Embraer.

[Trimmaster]

Is command upgrade based on seniority?

[High Energy]

Is command upgrade based on seniority?

No. If you meet the conditions and have the required sim markers you can apply.

[new_era]

Please, what are the minimum requirements to apply for command upgrade after joining as FO?

[Trimmaster]

No. If you meet the conditions and have the required sim markers you can apply.
Thanks @High Energy

[Sandyng]

I got first email from FZ that I have 5 days to do online assessment. Could anybody give any advice what it is and how to be successful?
Thank you in advance.
Hey airnavigator , can you share please any information about the online assessment ?? I got the same email telling me to conduct the assessment online within 5 days ,
Thanks for any feedback guys

[Mr.White]

Hi there!

Does school allowance and health insurance at FZ valid OVERSEAS or just inside UAE????

I got diferent answers, so wanna know whats the current situation

Regards

[captmycka]

Hi there,

Anyone welling to share some infos on the recruitment process please, I did the video interview 5 days ago, I applied thru Sigma Aviation, how long do they take to give you a feedback and what will be next?
Is it only the sim or we will have the group exercise, maths, 50 atpl questions...


Thanks a lot and great week ahead.;)

[agent.oen]

Hey FZ pilots,
Reading the info on this thread has left me slightly confused about the salary. Many comments have shown a dismal salary for FOs with a family.
I submitted my application and if successful would join as an FO with my family. I worked the maths and thought the salary was rather good. I could be wrong with the cost of rent though so maybe you could put me on the right tracks. Here's my calculation:
End of month pay: €10,000
Rent for 2 bedroom apartment: €2,500
Car loan payback: €1,000
Fuel: €500
Living (food, restaurants): €2,000
Remain: €4,000

Where's my mistake? Many comments state people barely surviving on a €10,000 monthly salary.

Cheers!

[777boyindubai]

School fees. Utilities. Take a look to see if you can even get your kids in the school of your choice. Check out the school fees. Utilities are a killer. And have gone up. Don't forget all the hidden taxes. Registering your tenancy agreement. The price of fresh fruit is eye-watering. Do your homework and the best of luck to you.

[ExDubai]

School fees, transportation, extra classes and activities. 2nd car for the missus....... DXB isn't cheap.

[dubaigong]

And VAT is coming which will not help

[Old King Coal]

And don't forget the 'co-pay' on the medical care. You better hope your wife, kids, and yourself don't ever need medical care in the UAE.

[agent.oen]

Thanks for the replies. I do understand why you so often mention that certain items are paid "from your own pocket" but apart from the school expenses exceeding the amounts that FZ reimburses, isn't everything actually paid from your own pockets?
Here in Europe I get a salary at the end of each month deposited to my bank account. I then choose how much I spend and how little I can afford to save. With FZ (correct me if I'm wrong) you get a lump sum deposited on your bank account excluding education allowances. Maybe this lump sum is categorised as Base salary, Housing allowance, Transportaion allowance, Flight allowance but you get 1 lump sum of money to spend/save as you please?

I try to compare my current situation to a speculated one should I join FZ. Here if I'm lucky I save €700 per month. I spend my salary on my house loan, utilities, mobile phones, internet, insurances, child care, food, entertainment, missus care... At the end of the month I hope to have saved something. If not, then I'll have to dig in my savings account (my pocket) to make up for the unexpected expenses eg tax returns, holiday vacations, small gadgets for myself to fool around with, a nice present for the missus...

That's why I'm asking for an idea of how much things cost in DXB. Just to see if I can save more money there while having a different experience in an actual city.
I'm not looking to live the life of a celebrity. A simple 2-3 bedroom apartment close to the airport should suffice. 1 car is enough (i would plan to use Uber to get to work leaving the car for the missus). My child is 1yr and a bit so i dont qualify for child allowance yet so either my wife babysits or occasionally we need a babysitter. A bit of restaurant nights out, a bit of shopping and some movie nights are what i expect to have too. And a vacation or 2 per year.

Am i that far off by hoping to save €4000/month?

[ExDubai]

Agent: Have a look at dubizzle regarding the accomodation. That should give you an good overview. Keep in mind that you have to negotiate the payment terms. I remember times where you had to pay the rent with 1 cheque. Nowadays it's up to your negotiation skills.

I highly recommend that go to DXB with your wife for at least 10 days. Show her the possible living areas and find out if she's fine with it. Visit some apartments with here. Itdoesn't make sense moving to DXB when your wife isn't happy with it. A lot of relationships broke up (including mine) because missus was not happy. Let your wife do her own investigations. There are some expat forums where she is able to get answers she might be looking for.

For a single guy the FZ deal works, with family I have some doubts.

Edit: Try to catch up with some of your future colleagues, a chat face to face will help a lot.

[agent.oen]

Exdubai, thanks for the dubizzle tip. From what I gathered one may expect to pay ~120,000-130,000 drh pa. (11,000drh monthly) for a decent apartment. Add the housing utilities which i would assume is 2,000drh monthly still leaves some cash aside from the 15,000 FZ Housing Allowance (~2,000drh).

Of course i am sure I'm missing some hidden expenses which maybe someone may kindly point out...

Assuming other expenses:
4,000drh monthly for car (fuel,insurance,maintenance,loan payback)/uber taxi
8,000drh monthly to survive and enjoy life
4,000drh for babysitters

Left over is about 10,000drh or €2500 for the savings account. Is this a realistic estimate?

Would be nice to have some contacts as you recommended ;)

[dubaigong]

In three posts you have come down from 4000 Euros saved to 2500 !!!
Furthermore it is not only about money , you have to read what has been said above by some others.
It is about your quality of life and the long term Relationship with your wife if you plan to see you kid growing with you AND with your wife or be divorced in a few years.
Also there is no state pension which means that the saving you are talking about will also be necessary to build up a pension for the future and it will not be added to a state pension it will be the only one.
The medical insurance is also quite bad in the sense that you will have to pay quite a lot on top of what is covered by the insurance provided by the company ( if you are Lucky and never get a long term disease than it fine but who knows )
Also in case of long term sickness or loss of medical , you will be grounded which means that you will only get your full BASIC salary + house allowance for 15 days then another 15 days with only the BASIC salary and no more the house allowance and then NOTHING for the next 60 days as the loss of income insurance only starts after 90 days and it is not huge ( unless you contribute yourself to increase it ) it is around 4000$ for an F/O and 6000$ for a captain ( If I am correct ) and it will be your business to pay what will be necessary to try to get back your medical ( all the expenses will be on you , don't expect any intervention from the medical insurance or the company )
There are plenty of example and I have spoken directly with 3 pilots involved in this painful process.
I don't say don't join BUT make a very good and thorough research before taking your decision.

[what-to-do]

a small pack of blueberrys 35 AED (7.50 GBP)
1 pumpkin for halloween ca. 200 AED (43.0 GBP)
1 beer 45 AED (9.85 GBP)

I could go on, but I think you get the picture.

Quality time with family..... that's a very real issue. Often you will be rostered 1 day off in 7, 2 off in 14, and 8 off in 28 (recently improved to 9 off in 28). Many night flights.....and I don't just mean getting home late, I mean ALL through the night (often 3 in a row), followed by a rest day and then in for an early between 4-6am. You can have anything from 1 night flight to 15 (I've had it).

The roster is random and based on seniority (joke). As a new entry you can expect little of what you ask for and will have to put up with the scraps.

The take home message from me would be:

Don't expect to save much money as an FO with a family. If however, you want to live a frugal life, it is possible, but you won't be able to enjoy your time in Dubai. The working life is tiring to the point of fatiguing and the subsequent strain that that can convey upon a family is not to be underestimated. A few guys (as mentioned previously) have seen their marriages fall apart in Dubai.

Dubai is not for everyone, and the only way to discover whether it is for you or not is to experience it. This thread is populated with all the info, good and bad. Unfortunately, there won't be many people here that will give you the definitive answer you're looking for

[agent.oen]

From the replies received, it does look more expensive than expected. So the jump to the left is a relief, if lucky enough - as I understand. Or else the missus has to work too.
Thanks for the comments. If i pass the selection, I'll have a good think about it. I understand the schedules are absurdly tough.
Well it's either FZ or FR for me as i need the b737 rating and all i have are 4500+ paddleflapper hours.

[777boyindubai]

Agent. The last few posts are very accurate re the cost of living. The rosters at FD speak for themselves. Your attitude is very positive. Remember that foreigners subsidise locals for electricity and water bills. Everything is imported. FD and EK help Sheikh Mohammed pay his massive debts of $130 billion. The debts will always come before payrises. Inflation is rampant. As another poster says come for 10 days. Check it out. If it suits you then great. It isn't an easy decision. Nursery places are expensive. All the best of luck to you.

[smoothsailor]

Anybody know the extent of the company medical. EKG, eye dilution, urine test..from company clinic or privately done?

[ifly462]

I live in dubai with my 3 kids. My Wife doesn't work and we are saving a ton, and yes I'm an FO. The problem is most of these guys get caught up with the dubai lifestyle and live beyond their means. How in the world can you not save money when you have a housing allowance, school allowance and transport allowance is beyond me. I came from a company where 4000 would have to work for us regardless of how we spun it. I got a villa for me and my family within the housing allowance. I send my kids to schools within the education allowance and i didnt buy the brand new 2017 lexus jeep. If you're unable to save money making 11300 including all allowances then my friend you have a personal problem.

[Vortac1]

This ^^^^^^^^

[GrFly]

Hi all and happy holidays !!!
Any updates on the non rated F/O FlyDubai assessment in Dubai ?

Thank you

[CaptZeloZelo]

Hey guys, I had a question for some of you who recently got hired and have completed your license conversion.
I heard that the UAE has recently added a requirement of 1500 multi crew requirement for everyone coming over.
I am currently flying a multi crew aircraft and have the 1000 on type to meet the other requirements of flydubai, however I do have 1500+ multi time but the remainder would be on a King Air which isn't typed as a multi crew aircraft but was a requirement due to our insurance policies.
How would the UAE see this and would I have to the 14 written exams or get a pass?
I have 3000TT with an ICAO ATPL. 1000+ on Modern EFIS FMS 10T a/c.

[Crashlanding]

As you have an icao ATPL then no, just air law for you too do.

[one mile]

hello fellow pilots,

any one attending the assesment on the 12th Jan 2017?
also I got this mail from FZ:


Dear Candidate,

This is in regards to your assessment scheduled for 12th January 2017 for flydubai pilot’s role.

Please note that instead of usual assessment schedule: 1st day assessment, 2nd day medical, 3rd day SIM.

We will have 1 day assessment only: group exercises and interview.

If you are successful through assessment, we would invite you for the SIM session and a medical check at a later stage during the year.

Please let me know at the earliest if you would still like to attend the assessment day.


I wonder if this is normal or just for me?

[simba82]

So what's in store for new deliveries in 2017? When does the first MAX come online and is there anymore 800NG deliveries left for 2017?

[High Energy]

next NG middle Feb, Max's supposed to come in july... nothing else has been mentioned otherwise..

8 new aircraft this year & 4 being retired is all we've heard. MAX 8 arriving in July with first flight in Sep. Rumor; MAX 8's initially will operate from DWC in full economy layout on labour routes to DAC/CGP.

[one mile]

just got this email around 0400 am.

Something I dont get yet.



Hello,

Please re-confirm your attendance for the 12th Jan. assessment.

Best Regards,

Xxxx XXXXXXX| Recruitment Officer
[email protected] | flydubai.com

[Jovis]

Hi guys, (and further to the previous recent posts)

I am from the UK and have applied for the non type-rated role at FlyDubai.

I've been invited for interview only (I believe) - in Dubai, in February.
(I have to pay my own way to get out there, but as someone has previously stated, you've got to speculate to accumulate!)

Q:
Has anyone else done recruitment this way? As I understood people have their initial interview in their own country where possible?

Any advice on questions asked, any other general points would be appreciated.

[striker26]

Any info on roster conditions for FO's?

Are people still pushing 80hrs plus with minimum days off...can someone elaborate on the scheduling if possible...thanks

[Crashlanding]

FO roster, hmmm busy, last year over 870 hrs, last 365 days I'm already pushing 890.

[Masteroftheplane]

Dear Frizzy

I suggest Arik Air would be the perfect place for you to go. They would welcome you with open arms.

I think I can speak for the vast majority of my colleagues both here and there your attitude would be make you right at home.

You could even be chief pilot next week. To be fair you probably couldn't do a worse job.

Just take two pairs of sunglassess (only to be worn in hours of darkness), five mobile phones and a cocktail stick to chew on.

You will find a refreshing and open culture of like minded people. You can experience the joys of the Sheraton night club. Marvel at the new almost constant power supply and occasionally working air conditioning.

I would get in quick because according to a documentary I saw Lagos is very similar to London and is the next Dubai and Arik are going to be the Emirates of Africa.

We really wouldn't want you to miss out!
14th January 2017:

Pilots and cabin crew members still waiting salaries for August/September/October/November and December 2016...

Come and john us, Arik is looking for you!

[striker26]

Thanks guys...how do you feel the roster pattern is evolving (im hearing more and more crew are heading out the door, and new 737 incoming this year)? Is minimum rest time still an issue with respect to the turn from nights to days and vice versa?

Only asking because lots of negative comments regarding pilot fatigue and FZ...i know FZ is not the only ME airline to be accused of such but ever since FZ 981 they've been in the spotlight...

[jayjay340]

Thanks guys...how do you feel the roster pattern is evolving (im hearing more and more crew are heading out the door, and new 737 incoming this year)? Is minimum rest time still an issue with respect to the turn from nights to days and vice versa?

Only asking because lots of negative comments regarding pilot fatigue and FZ...i know FZ is not the only ME airline to be accused of such but ever since FZ 981 they've been in the spotlight...

Its just from my point of view....but if u want to make the big bucks you WANT to fly no less than 85 hrs from my observstion. So 95hrs you can go and look for a ferrari!!!!!!!!!

[F2L]

I heard that no new training courses for the next months, also no assessments, anyone can confirm ?

[Luibar]

Yesterday I was deadheading with a guy that applied via sigma aviation services as non rated DEC and they told him that Flydubai put on hold the recruitment for the next couple of months. So it must be true. Although it seems they are accepting applications via their careers section and CTC aviation. :confused:

[CaptZeloZelo]

Careers section has no more job vacancies at this time for pilots. They aren't taking in any resumes.
However, I did receive an email last night saying that I had made it to "the next stage of the recruitment process".
I'm assuming they're trying to fill up their pool and should start up ground schools again soon?
Ps. Anyone do the video interview lately and have any tips?

[DCS99]

Business news
http://gulfnews.com/business/analysis/flydubai-2016-profits-drop-68-following-tough-year-1.1971753

[geeup]

Im guessing no expansion = no recruiting for 2017?

[dubaigong]

geeup your guess is wrong , a lot of pilots resigning=recruiting in 2017

[Luibar]

So why is the recruitment on hold?
They don't have capacity to handle it or are they analysing what to do with expansion?

[High Energy]

So why is the recruitment on hold?
They don't have capacity to handle it or are they analysing what to do with expansion?

We only gain 4 aircraft this year. I'm guessing they are focussing on training the guys currently in the pool, including many second officers who get a lot of training time but currently only fly 3 to 4 times a month. And they need to do about 90 sectors IIRC. Everything is reactive iso proactive here so they'll realize they are 'all of a sudden' short and start hiring like crazy. Out of my last 4 flights 2 guys were waiting for start dates elsewhere and hadn't resigned yet. People are moving...

Also the expansion is almost flat this year and they simpley don't have the training capacity.

[The_eagle737]

Any feedback from video interview, please?

[Vsnake]

Hi guys,

I read the last couple pages of this thread to find info about FlyDubai.
Apparently, the Health Insurance the company provides, is like in the US with a copay and everything?
What happen if my wife get pregnant, are we gonna have to pay the hospital? Is it expensive?

If we have both a FAA and EASA licence, can we chose on what certificate we want the Type rating?

[G SXTY]

Regarding the type rating, as Flydubai is a UAE operater flying A6- registered aircraft, you would be issued with a UAE ATPL, endorsed with a B737 300-900 rating.

If you wanted the rating on your EASA licence as well you would need to find a friendly EASA TRE to give you a skills test and have it added on. I'd assume the process for an FAA licence is similar.

[Vsnake]

Thanks. That's good to know. But if I have to pay every year to renew my TR on my EASA certificate it might be expensive!

[skysod]

The company now asking pilots to take voluntary unpaid leave........seems like we've gone from being under crewed to over crewed in the blink of an eye!!:bored:

[what-to-do]

67% drop in profits & unpaid leave,...... outlook is awesome, especially when you consider fuel prices being pretty low too

There's an old saying about chickens coming home to roost..... you simply cant have an airline run by such incompetent management and expect an airline/business to flourish in such a cut-throat environment.

It has amazed me how FZ has EVER turned a profit.

[pfvspnf]

I wouldn't be surprised if they start an MPL pay to fky scheme like ABY 600,000 dirhams to join, should bring revenues up as kids would be more than happy to line up !ha!

[babydash_83]

any updates on future training course dates for NTR First Officers?

[F2L]

That s a good question.... new hirings ahead ? A lot of people is standing by....

[High Energy]

That s a good question.... new hirings ahead ? A lot of people is standing by....

Expect it to be a bit quiet for a while. I know guys having already been offered start dates now being told there is an indefinate delay. If it takes longer than 1 year they have to re-apply.

On the other hand the numbers don't match to keep the operation running as is. And with 4 new destinations it's all getting a bit tight on crew. People are still leaving...

[CaptZeloZelo]

Please keep me updated on the ground school situation,
I'm still in the process of waiting for my video interview to be reviewed and for them to contact me back.
Pointless to go for an interview in the UK (from NA) if they're not going to have any GS this year...

[High Energy]

Please keep me updated on the ground school situation,
I'm still in the process of waiting for my video interview to be reviewed and for them to contact me back.
Pointless to go for an interview in the UK (from NA) if they're not going to have any GS this year...

This place is unpredictable at times. Hiring has stopped yet I came across an add looking for DEC's yesterday. Go figure. My gutt feeling says they'll need people. Less people leaving but still slowly expanding. Rumor is the slow donw is due to lot's of aircraft getting scheduled maintenance during this seasons low time, hence also the offer for voluntary leave. Yet we have just announced 4 new destinations with the first already starting in 2 weeks. We'll see.

No 'new' news on aircraft retirements and MAX introduction plans.

[tony the jesus]

Hi,

I just completed my application for NTR DEC as the position became available again two days ago. Do you know how long it takes to get a feedback from Flydubai?

Thank you.

[Luibar]

I supose it could be anything from a couple of weeks to never... :E

[madmaxfr]

Hi,

I have had a positive answer the day after.

[tony the jesus]

Hi madmaxfr,

Are you type rated on the 737? Which position did you apply?

Thank you.

[dubaigong]

tony the jésus,

If you want to come here to work for Flydubai , I suggest that you change your nickname to Mohammed the prophet

[Luibar]

@ tony the jesus,

Early this morning I heard at the crew room of a guy that applied as NTR FO. Apparently he got a reply from FZ 4 months later...

They must be quite busy or desorganized... :E

[argentina21]

tony the jésus,

If you want to come here to work for Flydubai , I suggest that you change your nickname to Mohammed the prophet
That may not be necessary if he just changes it a little bit to include the name "Isa."

[tony the jesus]

dubaigong and argentina21, I will take that in consideration :)

Meanwhile, do you have a rough idea how long Flydubai take to give a feedback? I have an upcoming interview with Hong Kong Express but Flydubai would suit me better if I have a chance with them.

Thank you

[Vortex Thing]

FZ feedback timescales have not changed since Year 0. i.e it is when they can be bothered or someone notices that you have requested something.

It could be the same day 0 it could be 18 months. In days gone by there was a lady who was particularly inefficient in HR. She would basically decide on which emails to answer based on what nationality she thought the airline needed that week. It was only after I joined and saw this is action, 5 years ago I add, that I could see why it took soooo long for some things to happen.

She basically had emails for years that she simply had never acknowledged or even responded to as she did not like the look of the name!! The previous Recruitment Manager JM who went to Amazon 2-3 years ago eventually did have her reassigned to another company as he had no idea that she was deliberately scuppering the recruitment process by taking matters into her own hands.

However many people like this people, who simply would not have a job in the Western world sit in Aspin and FZ HQ T2 racking up countless hours on Facebook and the Khaleej Times and simply ignoring your details sitting in a inbox as they don't get paid any more or any less i another non subcontinental joins.

In sum if your application is seen by the right person at the right time on a day that they are not busy you can go from application to hire in under 6-8 weeks. Some guys take 2 yrs to get the same process done just because of numerous reasons but mostly because there are no processes, they are not audited, no one cares, general malaise, poor management, lack of motivation, lack of general interest, never ending and repetitive cycle of hiring people who think they really want FZ and have ignored everything those of us who have first hadn't experience tell them and want to join and who of course when they become wise to the actually situation then wish to leave again.

In essence, just remember you are not important, you are a bum on a seat, they don't care if they hire you or another pilot as you will both be the same amount of effort for them. Feedback is given when and if it suits and when they are left with little choice. So if they have a course that needs filling they will happily ask if you can start Monday.

If they don't have a course and it's Ramadam perhaps they will reply perhaps they will simply delete you email along with 50 others from their inbox and deal with the crocodiles nearest the table.

If you have a chance to go to HK Express why on gods earth would you choose that over flydubai!:sad:

[F2L]

Even with bad reputations regarding HR, flydubai still a good option, in my opinion, Dubai is an amazing city, expensive, but, lots of space, wide avenues, lots of entertaiment... people say that rosters are terrible but I have friends that love the shortage of layovers... HK, I don t think is a good ideia, salary is little bit lower and you need to pay 15% TAX, a 600 sq/ft apartment will coast 3.5k USD, for the same value you get a 1,500+ sq/ft in Dubai...I have my fingers crossed and holpe that flydubai will restart hiring soon!

[Vortex Thing]

Even with bad reputations regarding HR, flydubai still a good option, in my opinion, Dubai is an amazing city, expensive, but, lots of space, wide avenues, lots of entertaiment... people say that rosters are terrible but I have friends that love the shortage of layovers... HK, I don t think is a good ideia, salary is little bit lower and you need to pay 15% TAX, a 600 sq/ft apartment will coast 3.5k USD, for the same value you get a 1,500+ sq/ft in Dubai...I have my fingers crossed and holpe that flydubai will restart hiring soon!

Fly 2 Live I think the problem here is that you think the rosters are the biggest problem! They are an annoyance but rosters alone wouldn't ever dissuade me nor would I dissuade someone else from joining due to them.

It is the utter contempt and lack or professionalism that allows you to be treated with such disdain that neither you nor your family matter. I couldnt care if tax is 50% it only matters what you have disposable at the end of the month not how much your gross is!!

I never cared and still don't care how hard I work, I think if a firm pays you they can treat you however badly they wish from a legal rostering perspective. ( I don't call this good practice and wouldn't do it myself ) but it is within their gift and so would unlikely be the biggest factor in a stay or go decision.

However in HK the legal system is similar to UK. Wasta has some play in every society but in Dubai firms like FZ act as if above the law on a daily basis. They will send you possibly and knowingly to your death. That is what you are worth to them. If that is worth a slightly bigger apartment then fill your boots.

You want Dubai then join EK. They will treat you badly but not as badly as FZ and at least you won't be a second class citizen in Dubai (except when it comes to locals that is)

[what-to-do]

F2L, clearly you have no idea what you are talking about. As you are crossing your fingers in the hope that FZ starts hiring again soon, you are someone hoping to be hired, correct?

If so, how are you in a position to suggest it's a good option? 67% drop in profit and unpaid leave on offer.....many many pilots have left and are leaving. Could it be that things might not be quite right?

if you want to apply, apply. However, before you say what a good option it is, come and dip your toe in first.

[F2L]

Dear What-to-do, as I said "in my opinion", it means that is what I THINK (based on friends feedback)..... YES I m looking forward for a flydubai position and waiting for DOJ, and if you don't like working at FZ, what are you doing working there? as I know, no one is obligated to remain in a job that he don t like... you should know that economie is not a rocket to space, it has ups and downs... the profits is running low all around the world even china is not growing as growed in the past...

Forums are funny, every company that you seek for information, you only see complains... pilots always complaining about every thing... people leave their countries looking for better salary better life, once they found it, they start to complain!! I m seeking for a job that pays good, not for a father to tell me how much he love me every day....

[Luibar]

Unpaid leaving and recruiting? :confused:

[dubaigong]

Guys , let him come here , he will find out how things really are and then he will most probably be one of those complaining about FZ...

[F2L]

Guys , let him come here , he will find out how things really are and then he will most probably be one of those complaining about FZ...

Guys there is a lot of pilots jobs around the world, why complain?? Just quit... simple... i have been in aviation for the last 20 years, all the places I have been working is the same... for me treat me bad is work all month and get a delay paycheck.

Feedbacks is very important, but sometimes it seems that some a guys are tortured...

[what-to-do]

F2L, are you hoping that FZ starts recruiting soon or you have a DOJ? Which is it?

So I if I don't like it leave hey...... you'll fit right in if/when you get here. With regard to opinions, believe it or not, people (pilots) post both good and negative comments on this forum, unfortunately, FZ has more than its fair share of negative ones...... most of which are based on factual information shared for your benefit.

If you don't like it, don't take any notice... But you have to ask why so many FZ pilots left and are still leaving? Again, if you're not interested, don't take any notice, but all the info you need is on this forum.

[F2L]

F2L, are you hoping that FZ starts recruiting soon or you have a DOJ? Which is it?

So I if I don't like it leave hey...... you'll fit right in if/when you get here. With regard to opinions, believe it or not, people (pilots) post both good and negative comments on this forum, unfortunately, FZ has more than its fair share of negative ones...... most of which are based on factual information shared for your benefit.

If you don't like it, don't take any notice... But you have to ask why so many FZ pilots left and are still leaving? Again, if you're not interested, don't take any notice, but all the info you need is on this forum.

Why people leave??? The company is on its way for a bankruptcy ? yes, I m here looking for feedbacks, not for complains like "FZ treats me bad, they are not organized, rosters are bad"... because those opinions are strictly personal and vary a lot, and I prefer listen feedbacks from my friends, people from the same place, culture etc etc...

DOJ (date of join)...

And why they open new pilots vacancies if they won't hire???

[what-to-do]

People leave because they are unhappy, simple. If they were happy, then the numbers would tell a different story.

I agree, personal opinion do vary, and some people complain about everything. However, when so many people complain about the same things, then isn't that more of a trend, and therefore indicative of what life may actually be like at FZ?

It may be a personal opinion, but it's an opinion shared by many. If you join and don't expect much, you wont be too disappointed.

[F2L]

I agree! The main issue is that People always built expectations and when you sign a contract if you expect more than is written, you made a huge mistake!

if the other part doesn't comply the contract... that's the hint to hit the road!

[dubaigong]

what-to-do , don't loose your time
He has made is mind already and only listen to his friends so let him ask his friends when FZ will hire again ? and why they open the pilot application when at the same time they ask their own pilots to take leave without salary ?
They must have an answer that he may listen to...
I don't even understand why he keeps asking questions on this website as he has friends inside ( from the same place and culture ) to answer it better ?

[F2L]

what-to-do , don't loose your time
He has made is mind already and only listen to his friends so let him ask his friends when FZ will hire again ? and why they open the pilot application when at the same time they ask their own pilots to take leave without salary ?
They must have an answer that he may listen to...
I don't even understand why he keeps asking questions on this website as he has friends inside ( from the same place and culture ) to answer it better ?

Don't get offend so easy just because there is people that think diferent than you.... a lot of people leaving for many reasons, and it's not only on FZ. They don't know when FZ will hire again, maybe on the second part of the year... about the leave there is a lot of probabilities.

[dubaigong]

Not offended at all my friend just tired of people asking the same questions , not accepting the answers they get and when hired complaining all day long on the flight deck...
I am here for quite a long time and I have seen too much of this , that's all.
Have a good day and good luck

[what-to-do]

http://www.masterthestars.com/the%20emperor%27s%20new%20clothes.jpg

[Luibar]

A friend just told me that FZ is dry leasing out a couple of aircrafts this summer. If true no wonder why they are offering unpaid leave. As the expansion stoped?

[G SXTY]

F2L
You obviously have your heart set on joining Flydubai, which is fair enough. Several experienced FZ pilots have given you a very accurate picture of what life is like at Flydubai; you say you are looking for feedback, but then dismiss any negative feedback as 'opinion'.

How about some facts for you?

In a two year period at FZ which I am intimately familiar with:

- Two aircraft were hit by small arms fire. One during a turnaround in Djibouti (with the crew onboard) and one on approach to Baghdad.
- One aircraft was taxiing in at Kandahar while the airfield was under rocket attack.
- An aircraft landed at Sanaa, parked on stand and was promptly surrounded by armed Houthis rebels. And that after the captain had received specific assurances from FZ management that it was safe to fly there.
- At a job interview for Flydubai, candidates are asked: "Are you prepared to fly to war zones?"
- Almost exactly a year ago, a Flydubai flight crashed at Rostov, killing everyone onboard. To date the Russian investigators have found no pre-existing fault with the aircraft, and are focussing on human-factors issues, including the rest patterns of the accident crew.

The above are FACTS, not opinion.

I would suggest the facts speak for themselves. :hmm:

(And for what it's worth, I am one of hundreds of ex-Flydubai pilots who have voted with their feet and moved onto better things).

[F2L]

You forgot the 2 missiles in Saudi Arabia ;)

Incident: FlyDubai B738 at Abha on Feb 13th 2016, missiles in vicinity (http://avherald.com/h?article=4940aa0f)

But it seems that F2L is from Brazil, for them Dubai is like heaven

No I am not from Brazil, if I was from Brazil I'll never leave it, nice weather, girls girls...

all companies based on Middle East are flying into war zones!

Ok guys FZ is not the right place, you convinced me !

Any news about new training courses? LOL

[G SXTY]

You forgot the 2 missiles in Saudi Arabia

Happily I'd already escaped by then. :ok:

[Crashlanding]

F2L

We as line pilots at FZ do not get given any information from the company that is reliable on most subjects.

We are definitely not told about recruitment or training schedules, so no point asking about it.

The only hint we get about an increase in training is more faces we don't recognize during the day.

After your training you will be constantly swapping from day to night and night to day shifts, with a lot of 18-30 hours rest periods. If you are the seasoned pilot you say, then you will appreciate this is the most tiresome situation to be in.

As we fly with close to minimum days off you will always be short of sleep as you get no time to recover.

[Vortex Thing]

Does this scenario seem familiar to you.

One of your mates meets a boy/girl who is clearly a psycho, bunny boiler from hell, narcissistic, gold digging repropbate. Lets call them X. However individual X is a biological specimen that makes Charlize Thieron or Chris Hemsworth look in the mirror and feel ugly.

It was from this scenario that age old adage of "cannot see the woods for all the trees!" came from.

You know the conversations that follow.
Week 1: "OMG X is so fit and soooo nice" but mate they killed your dog, cleaned out your bank account, slagged your mates and family off, slept with your best mate and publicly humilate you daily"..... " I know but X has such a redunctious bootilicious body and is sooo funny and is generous of heart if not in wallet and has lovely eyes!!"

Week 25: " Guys why did you let me date X what a terrible life experience, they wrote my car off, my parents and siblings won't speak to me anymore, sold my stuff and spent the money on escorts and blow, put naked photos of me on the internet and actually boiled my bunny!"

Guys you ask for a real life ,"I told you so!" moment in the making. You want to be entertained, you want Hollywood style 'ah ha' moments. Then I give you F2L.

Never before in the field of human advice giving, has so much been ignored by so few, from so many!

To be fair to you I, and numerous others (see the use of the Oxford comma there) have only tried so hard to help with advice YOU openly solicited because you have a family who will be affected by this as well.

Sometimes, just sometimes in life the indefatigable logic meets the irresistible desire and that desire how ever rose tinted wins out. Please do us one favour and bookmark this page and the last few and read every 6 months when you are in Dubai.

VT drops mic.....

[KTM300XC-W]

Would anyone like to share the conditions at FZ? I'm not seeing too much regarding conditions etc (as compared to EK) curious about housing, transportation ( do you drive yourself to work) etc. I'd take any intel I can get.
Thanks in advance.

[BritishGuy]

You drive yourself to work. No pick up/drop off.

Captain:
25225 basic
15000 housing
2600 transportation
187 AED per flight hour

Someone else may need to chime in on FO package.

Basically put, it's not gone up with inflation in the past 7 years. It's not enough. You'll be worked to death. Don't let the figures fool you.

Oh yes, I had to add.....before you ask, yes, I am looking for an exit.

[PilotD12]

FO:
17000 basic
12600 housing
2000 transport
134 per flight hour

[framer]

Am I right in assuming that is 25225 USD per month basic for Captains?

[dubaigong]

Framer,

25225 USD per month !!! What are you smoking ? I want the same....

[olster]

Vortex thing. a very well written and accurate post;it will of course be ignored but you are absolutely spot on.

[fliion]

Does this scenario seem familiar to you.

One of your mates meets a boy/girl who is clearly a psycho, bunny boiler from hell, narcissistic, gold digging repropbate. Lets call them X. However individual X is a biological specimen that makes Charlize Thieron or Chris Hemsworth look in the mirror and feel ugly.

It was from this scenario that age old adage of "cannot see the woods for all the trees!" came from.

You know the conversations that follow.
Week 1: "OMG X is so fit and soooo nice" but mate they killed your dog, cleaned out your bank account, slagged your mates and family off, slept with your best mate and publicly humilate you daily"..... " I know but X has such a redunctious bootilicious body and is sooo funny and is generous of heart if not in wallet and has lovely eyes!!"

Week 25: " Guys why did you let me date X what a terrible life experience, they wrote my car off, my parents and siblings won't speak to me anymore, sold my stuff and spent the money on escorts and blow, put naked photos of me on the internet and actually boiled my bunny!"

Guys you ask for a real life ,"I told you so!" moment in the making. You want to be entertained, you want Hollywood style 'ah ha' moments. Then I give you F2L.

Never before in the field of human advice giving, has so much been ignored by so few, from so many!

To be fair to you I, and numerous others (see the use of the Oxford comma there) have only tried so hard to help with advice YOU openly solicited because you have a family who will be affected by this as well.

Sometimes, just sometimes in life the indefatigable logic meets the irresistible desire and that desire how ever rose tinted wins out. Please do us one favour and bookmark this page and the last few and read every 6 months when you are in Dubai.

VT drops mic.....

Lol - oh the irony

[Old King Coal]

For what it's worth, when I joined FZ (in March 2009... as what latterly came to be known as an 'A Scale' Captain) the Captain's monthly remunerative package back then was as follows:
Basic Salary: 25,480 Dhs
Housing Allowance: 16,000 Dhs
Transport Allowance: 4,000 Dhs
Hourly (block hour) Flight Pay was paid on top of these.
The only movement in any of these was in 2011 when my Basic Salary was raised to 26,705 Dhs (albeit with the allowances for Accommodation & Transport staying the exact same) and there they all stayed, even until I left FZ in May 2016..... and, aside from Flight Pay, things don't seemed to have improved much even since then (and / or since 2009) !

[LostinT2DXB]

I don't know why I'm even bothering to post as all you guys will take this job because it's the only job you can get, but here we go.....

I left for other reasons than salary staying stagnant as OKC mentioned. Yes, the A scale was better (and still is lol!) than what new joiners have been offered since Aug 2009. What really pushed me out was the non-monetary benefits that HR seems not to care about, i.e. Travel, health insurance, staff parking, crew food, scheduling patterns, PBS lies, office staff support, etc...

Travel, it has got better within the last several months, but the time it took to get the improvement was inexcusable.
Health insurance, gets worse every year. Deductible goes up, coverage goes down. Single and in your 20s? Who cares right?
Staff Parkng, the airline ordered 50 jets and no parking for flight staff. Office staff are constantly given priority for parking and crew are basically told to suck it and self pay RTA meters.
Crew food. Well if you are from mm and pop turboprop xyz airline, the food is excellent compared to what you had before. Never mind it's the cheapest economy meals the company can get from EK catering. But oh wait, you can have the leftover scraps from Business class that's been sitting in the cart for 8 hours slowly warming to a bacteria pleasing temperature.
PBS and scheduling, just read what everyone said. Can't imagine anything has improved with the same bribe takers running the system.
For me the big kick in the nuts was the attitude of our multicultural office staff. After the March 2016 crash, it just seemed like no one cared in the office that seven crew + passengers died in an horrific way. No changes at all, just a big declaration from chief pilots office that there was no connection between the crash and fatigue.

I'm much happier for leaving, hope friends that are still there can find an exit when the time is right.