Transfer of Skill to RAF Multi Fleet

[Jemima Puddleduck]

I hear you all yawn again at the same old query -
A simple question really: would the RAF consider transfering a rotary officer (youngish) from a different arm onto their Multi Engine fleet? Answers to the questions listed would be really appreciated - Skill base, type (Twin etc), NVG, total hrs, etc.... and what type of commission is likely to be offered, (does this change from current commissions). Would you actually consider taking a twin rotary pilot?

I would be really gratefull for as much info on the above topic.

Many regards and thanks.

[ 01 August 2001: Message edited by: Jemima Puddleduck ]

[Max Brakin]

Unfortunately JP the RAF policy on pilots doesn't include letting them choose which direction they wish to pursue their carrer in.

By all means apply for a change but expect to be asked 'Why not fast jet' and don't expect to head off to a multi training unit (starts with Jetstreams at Cranners, I don't count the lead-in training on the Firefly as anything more than hours building) just cos that's what you would like.

Especially as the RAF is leaking fast jet pilots like a sieve and that's where they need to recruit.

But never tried never gained ;) ;)

[Up Very Gently]

Mate of mine, Navy Lt, "Pinger", and QHI, recently offered his services to the RAF, only on condition that he would go "truckies". They snapped him up, and he transfered about 2 weeks ago, and is currently undergoing MFTS (?) at Cranditz.

He didn't even have to do SERE (Specialist Officer training similar to your "alphabet" course) - just went to stores, changed rank slides, and had a 10 minute lesson on how to salute correctly, and march badly. So, it's not just FJ boys they are after. Good luck!

UVG :)

[StopStart]

It can't hurt to enquire (not too much anyway). The present apparent "surplus" of pilots at Lyneham will disappear very rapidly once we all become C130J trained; there is then forecast to be a shortage of C130 pilots.
As regards commission type I have no idea, although I imagine it will be long enough to "stop" you poking off to the airlines as soon as you've got a few ME hours :) - perish the thought :D

You'd have to get used to whinging about tents if you joined us though......

[Scorpius]

We very recently had an ex SAR Seaking pilot cross over to fly the E3D - mind you he had been trying for about 5 years. We also get quite a few chopped or medically down graded FJ pilots. If you don't ask you don't get. However donot take what your desk officer says for granted - they have been known to change their minds!

[Jemima Puddleduck]

Thanks everybody - anyone know who I contact discretely, less it all goes wrong and to avoid finding myself shafted in current employment...!

Actually the main reason why I am keen to switch to the ME fleet is the diversity that they seem to offer, especially on the Hercs, compared to the Fast Jet life.

If I am deluded please put me straight.

many thanks - JP. :rolleyes:

[Oggin Aviator]

Are you in a different "arm" of the RAF or in a different Service ?
If a different Service, do it by the book, all in Officer's Career Regs (if you are in RN). The Crabs wont tip the wink to your appointer until you officially apply (via formal letter to your CO) - before that the posters at Innsworth will look at your military CV and decide if they want to offer you a slot. If you are determined to do it and you are offered a place, and the parent service gets all shirty, just PVR. In order to do this, I would say your offer must be in concrete though. Email me for details if you want.
Good Luck.

[ 02 August 2001: Message edited by: Oggin Aviator ]

[Jemima Puddleduck]

Oggin - Many thanks

Anyone from Innsworth have any first hand advice...?


Thanks and regards. JP :cool:

[mr ripley]

Ring Innsworth and speak to PMA 32B (its just changed)

He gets about 4 calls a week from the other services and RAF FJ and RW

He will require a CV from you

There is no formal transfer mechanism from the other services

He can not poach you

You will have to apply to leave your service

NCOs will be required to do all of IOT

He will make a judgement on weather you will have to do SERE or just go straight to METS

He is conscious of people trying to step stone to airlines

Return of service is a factor, the younger the better

Any more details pse email me

mr ripley