British Airways Future Pilot Programme.

[G-F0RC3]

I suspect you'll be asked to sit inside one of their simulators at the seat's maximum outward position from the rudder pedals to see if it's a comfortable and functional arrangement. Two inches above 6'2'' doesn't seem too much.

[Wirbelsturm]

Anyone know what these are? I'm 6ft4 http://images.ibsrv.net/ibsrv/res/src:www.pprune.org/get/images/smilies/shiner.gif
I'm the same and managed anything that has been thrown at me over the past 26 years so I wouldn't worry too much.

[iain32]

I have been trying to apply for the course however when I log in after the initial questionnaire it says my application is on hold.
When I try to apply through the FTO website it says I have applied.

I have read in previous posts people having the same issues.

Is there anyway of solving this?

Thanks.

[squird02]

Iain32 I believe that BA said they would resolve the issue within 24hrs (although that was a few days ago). I also read that other people contacted BA directly and that solved the problem. It might be worth giving them a call tomorrow morning!

[trtj]

Anyone who has been through selection before...

Does anyone know the format of the technical/maths tests at the 1st assessment? And the interview, is it technical or competency based or a bit of both?

[PlaneVanilla]

I submitted my application at lunchtime and within two hours received an invitation to selection at Oxford. That's certainly enough time for someone to at least scan-read my application, although I wouldn't be surprised to find that the initial invitation is based purely on my qualifications and the answers I gave to the multiple choice questions.

I'm in my early thirties and have a financial technology background, if that's any encouragement for potential applicants in a similar position.

[Reblochon]

Hello everyone,

Regarding that "Please enter the month and year the qualification was awarded or is expected to be awarded.", I didn't do this TAB thing and sent my application without the month and year the qualification was awarded in. It's written "--/----" on the qualifications summary page.
In the Education section, since the years spent at university is stipulated, should I still call and ask to update my application?
Did anyone trying to call and were able to modify their application?
Last but not least, did anyone get answer from CTC?

[flygirlhopeful]

I also applied through CTC and haven't got an answer :/

[squird02]

I submitted my application earlier today and received an invite to attend stage 1 at CAE OAA. For those who have received their invites I was wondering which dates you have booked your assessment :)?

[aviator-P]

Hey Guys

I've still haven't managed to submit my application for the BA FPP via OAA yet, for those who have been accepted onto stage 2 do you mind sharing the dates we are allowed to book our assessments on as i'm due on holiday abroad in dec.:ok:

[squird02]

At the moment the only dates available for selection are 28th Nov and 2nd/3rd December! What dates are you away in December? Hopefully they will add more dates over the next few days.

[PlaneVanilla]

The OAA website currently shows 3, 4 and 24 places remaining for 28/11, 2/12 and 3/12 respectively. That doesn't sound like many; is it usual for additional dates to be made available as the assessment days fill up? I ask because those dates aren't ideal for me.

[G-F0RC3]

Therefore OAA are actually having an assessment day before the application deadline closes, since the deadline was extended to 28th Nov. That's very strange.

[LadyL2013]

As far as I have seen there have been at least 5 OAA assessment days, some of which are no longer avaliable as they are fully booked and some of those are before the deadline.

Those OAA assessors are going to be busy! It seems like loads of people have been invited or at least predicted to be so.

[Danny212]

Been 2 days since I've applied to OAA...and no response...not a nice feeling people are getting replies within hours :(

[K13]

@Danny212, don't worry too much. I sent my application in on Saturday afternoon and received my invite on Tuesday morning!

[Danny212]

@K13 Yeah not giving up hope just yet haha :) Just strange that they're selecting a testing candidates before the deadline.

[carltoncole]

Why wouldn't they test before the deadline? At £200 a per person, it's in their interest as a business to have as many people assessed as possible.

They're obviously offering anyone who meets the basic minimum requirements the opportunity to sit the tests. If thats 300 people, then so be it. If it's a 1000 great, it's more money in the coffers.

However, it is strange that one school is doing it this way and the other two aren't.

[Danny212]

@carltoncole I understand that...but yeah just strange how two schools are doing it one way and another is doing it another. I guess every school has their own ways :)

[G-F0RC3]

Why wouldn't they test before the deadline? At £200 a per person, it's in their interest as a business to have as many people assessed as possible.

Waiting until the closing date of the application window will not prevent them from assessing all who meet the minimum entry requirements, and therefore it makes no difference to the amount they will earn. I suspect it has far more to do with logistical and operational reasons than anything else.

But holding an assessment day before receiving all applications does seem a peculiar approach. I imagine news of it probably encouraged some people to rush their applications, which will surely disadvantage them. Rather discombobulating if you ask me.

[suddste]

Anyone got any news? I submitted mine yesterday and no reply yet

[Roooob]

Why would anyone with any sense apply for this programme?

Now I'd love to be a pilot as much as the next guy, but this is taking the pee!

1. The security bond. £84,000 is probably more money that you'll ever have in your bank account at any one point in your life. You'll probably have to get a loan for it which will require you to pay back the month after you take it out in installments (see point 2). I know that with the BA secured one, you get a 24 month repayment window, however it's still a huge amount. Ok it's not paid all in one go, but that doesn't really make a difference.

2. You don't earn a salary whilst training. You'll be expected to train full time so your only income will be from parents or a part time weekend job. I doubt after a week of training you'll be fit to work over the weekend too. With no income, how can you expect to live during this time? You'll be living away from home for most of the training so you can't rely on your parents. You'll have to get a loan for more than £84k to cover your living expenses. CTC says an extra £5k for each year in training and you're in training for about 2 years- that's an extra £10k.

3. You're not even guaranteed a job afterwards. They say they've opened the programme because they expect a demand for pilots in the next few years, but who knows what could happen in that time. Another recession for all we know!

Ok, so you get training from one of the biggest airlines in the UK but is almost £100k debt and no guarantee of a job really worth it? Or am I missing something :ugh:

[funkyt111]

Your missing a lot....a very lot. If you would take take the time to read about this opportunity in its entirety you would realise that the BA FPP is one of the best schemes out there. Somebody else please explain.:rolleyes:

[G-F0RC3]

Why would anyone with any sense apply for this programme?

Why would anyone with such a poor understanding of the programme question the sense of others applying for it? Not very sensible, is it?

Edit: I'm assuming Rooob is a troll. Nobody can surely be knowledgeable enough to know about the programme's existence and yet ignorant enough to question the sense in applying for it. :rolleyes: Either that or you need to practise your comprehension skills by reading the FPP website (as well as those of the FTOs) thoroughly.

[Danny212]

@Rooob

You clearly have done your research. Because somehow you can tell me a numerous other number of schemes that pay pilots while training??

And with the schools already asking for around the same price...why would you not enrol on this course with the MORE LIKELY POSSIBILITY of a job at the end.

It's like you would settle for something less when there's the opportunity to grasp something more.

Every scheme may have it's flaws....but it's SOMETHING to help people...rather than just going straight into training.

[Reblochon]

You're right Rooob, don't apply !!!! :E

[starlight786]

Hello All,

I am aspiring to be a pilot but I do not meet the BA FPP minimum height restriction of 5"2. I am approximately 5 "1. I have emailed BA and they haven't got back to me regarding this.
Does this mean I have no hope in applying to any FPP due to being under 5"2.
So depressing as it feels like I have to give up my dream and forget about applying to one of the best programmes out there

[G-F0RC3]

I think the minimum height requirement is to enable you to comfortably reach the rudder pedals while still being able to look out of the windows. I mean if 5'2'' is okay for that then it might be possible that a slight adjustment could be made for someone only an inch shorter. But you've done the right thing in contacting them about it - I hope it's good news for you.

[flygirlhopeful]

Has anyone received a reply from CTC yet?? I got details of my selection day sent through today!!

[reeko]

Flygirl

What time did you get your invite? And what are the dates?

Well done!
:D

[Flyboy91]

Hi,

Wondering if anyone has had the same issue?...I've completed the application, but under the additional and supporting questions there is still a cross next to them, indicating they haven't been completed, even though they have been. Leaving me unable to send in the application.

[G-F0RC3]

Phone them flyboi: 08706 080 747. I gave them a call the other day. The lady who answered the phone was lovely and helpful. :p

[Flyboy91]

Ah great thanks, I'll give them a call!

[Reblochon]

Hello everyone,

So CTC is also sending phase 2 & 3 invites already?
Application sent a big week ago and still nothing :{

[G-F0RC3]

It always amazes me that people who are interested in the FPP need to ask such questions? The details are on the FPP website george72. :ok:

[FullTanks]

Sadly, G-FORC3, it has ceased to amaze me. This scheme, like all others is incredibly competitive - it was just so 50 years ago. Any sponsoring airline can, and will, be very discerning with regard to the candidates whom it selects. It is sad, but a fact of life, that even those who have the prescribed minimum qualifications, if they answer the questions asked in the same manner in which they often post, will rule themselves out of the race at the first hurdle. Likewise those who demonstrate by their questions on this thread that they are incapable of even the barest amount of research, they too will probably, under close scrutiny during the selection procedure, display very little initiative - an essential personal attribute in the role for which they are applying.
Very many of the candidates will deserve to be successful, it is unfortunate that there are so few positions available each year.

[Joesimpson]

Has anyone heard back from FTE Jerez ? i applied over a week ago and still no response ? would be nice to hear if anyone is in the same situation as I am , or if anyone has received a response from Jerez.

[futurepilot001]

With the stage 1 assessments starting at OAA from tomorrow - does anybody know:

1. Calculators are obviously not allowed - but can we use pen/paper?

2. Are the Maths / Technical questions multiple choice?

Good luck to everyone!

[G-F0RC3]

Joe: I'm with FTE Jerez too and haven't heard anything since applying at the end of last week. However, I'm not expecting to hear anything until after the closing date. If my memory serves me correctly FTE Jerez weren't as quick off the mark as the other two FTOs last year - so I'm not in the least bit concerned. :ok:

[LadyL2013]

Obviously I understand this selection has to be as fair as possible and all candidates should be assessed fairly but do they take into consideration your education and experience on the day? For example an aeronautical engineering graduate with lots of flying experience is far more likely to perform better on certain tests than say someone fresh out of school working in retail with maybe an hour or so of lessons. Do they assess in terms of how you perform in proportion to your background?

[tcm1707]

The performance of the other candidates is something you can't control, so I don't see any point in worrying about it. I'm not!

[G-F0RC3]

LadyL; some people have suggested that in the aptitude tests they are actually looking to see how much you improve from one try to the next, rather than your total score. But, while there may be some truth in that, I highly doubt they don't consider the total scores as well as your rate of improvement. However, (if even partially true - which is likely) it does highlight that an important aspect of the process is assessing your natural ability to learn and improve, which really isn't something you can (or need) to train for. But training will improve you in other desirable ways, so it's still worthwhile doing.

So to answer your question (in my opinion); does having a PPL or engineering degree etc help? Undoubtedly. It's only logical that someone with greater flying experience/maths and physics knowledge etc will perform better in tests where such skills are being tested. Do the assessors take your qualifications into consideration when assessing you? I don't know, but I doubt your qualifications etc come into the equation until an interview. It wouldn't be very pragmatic to say; he did well but then again he's a PPL holder; she did poorly but then again she's only just out of school. The qualifications you've got contribute to what makes you you; and therefore contribute to the person that BA might (or might not) be looking for.

But does that rule someone out of the process who doesn't have a PPL or engineering degree? Definitely not! Lots of people have (and will again) be successful without such qualifications. But how do they outperform people whom one might consider to be a specialist? They understand that the process is about more than just a few aptitude tests, and prepare accordingly.

Hope it's helpful. Good luck! :)

[squird02]

Just wondering if anybody on here has booked their assessment day at OAA for 9th December?

[Chelmo]

I have been worried about the logistics of running the OAA assessment activities all in one day.

They seem to be allocating 24 places per day and state that you will be given a personal interview which lasts 45 minutes. Considering they could have 24 people to interview and make them undertake the other tests, I am guessing they will split people up between activities with simultaneous interviews going on all day by having several interviewers. Can anyone who had their assessment at OAA today confirm this?

Also are you given adequate relaxation time between tests to just drink coffee or eat something? It must be an extremely long and tiring day with the number of activities you have to do!

I've read that for typical OAA assessment days (when it was a 2 day process) you have a lounge room where you can get tea/coffee all day and you are given a lunch break. I am worried that with the new assessment (cramming everything into one day) you will be rushed between exercises and not given much time to recover between each exercise!

Thanks in advance for any help on this.

[LadyL2013]

Thanks G for your very informative answer, I suspected as much, I just wasn't sure if anybody knew for certain.

As I think the first of the assessment days is tomorrow I'd just like to wish everybody the best of luck as the ball gets rolling on the selection process.

[neilje12]

Joesimpson

Nothing from FTE yet. Last year was the same. Didn't get asked to select an assessment day until mid December.

[A_M]

Has anyone had the problem of submitting the application but not getting a confirmation email? I phoned BA today and got it manually submitted and it says "submitted" on my application but I haven't got the email that it says I should. Anyone got any suggestions?

[Stronger]

There is only one date available with Oxford at the moment.
Is there a deadline for booking a date ? Or can i wait for another ?
Are the selections going to extend to January, maybe more, maybe less ?

[ManUtd1999]

G-F0RC3

It's an interesting topic. I've no idea how BA select candidates but I'm fairly sure that there will be an element of taking into account your background, even if it isn't until interview as you suggest. Putting myself in an interviewer's shoes, I would expect any decent engineering grad to get near 100% in the maths/physics, anything else suggests carelessness. A few more mistakes from a school-leaver or older candidate that's out of practice might be more understandable. On the other hand, graduates and school-leavers naturally won't have the life-experience/skill based examples of someone in work but might be able to use examples from extra-curricular activities. I would hope/imagine that they take all this into account to form a general picture of each candidate and select accordingly.

[G-F0RC3]

I agree. If it were only about your performance in the aptitude tests then I don't see why they'd even have the group ex and interviews. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that the interview is the make or break for people who make it that far. In other words, if they don't like you in the interview then it doesn't matter what you did in any of the other tests; you're probably not going to make the cut. Whereas if they think your interview was excellent but you didn't perform as well as the five engineering graduates you're competing against in the maths/physics tests, you're probably still in with a very good shout.

Only in the interview can you really directly sell yourself to the interviewers, and I'm pretty sure they would be willing to overlook a few rust-induced elementary arithmetic errors if you are otherwise exactly what they're looking for. But let's face it, the maths and physics tests aren't difficult for anyone who has the entry qualifications to apply; and given candidates have had time to prepare there's very little excuse for rustiness at the basics, irrespective of whether you are Hawking or a just-out-of-school kid. :)

[G-F0RC3]

Be very careful about making assumptions about the BA process.

I think we are being careful about the assumptions we are making. They seem sensible to me. Clearly everyone should go into the process and try their best at every phase. But I genuinely don't see any harm in trying to figure out what separates the best from the rest.

The tests are pass/fail...
Oh and the comments above about excusing a few elementary errors in maths due rustiness-way off the mark.

These two points seem contradictory to me? If the test is a pass/fail and I pass having made a few elementary arithmetic errors, then my pass would be as good as any other pass - and my trivial errors therefore excused.

The interview is not make/break, if you are marginal your overall performance is taken into account.

This doesn't seem to tie up with your other comments. If you are correct about the tests being pass/fail, then it's fair to say that that top n% will all pass. Therefore, the key method of differentiating them from each other would be the interview, suggesting that it is - in fact - make or break.

The process is the fairest interview/test process I have ever been involved with, and I have been involved in recruitment in several companies/industries.

So are you suggesting that you are actually involved in the BA FPP recruitment process? If not then I would assume you are an applicant like the rest of us; and therefore how are you in a stronger position to state for certain one way or other how it all works? On the other hand, if you are involved directly - please do inform us of exactly how it all works. :)

[G-F0RC3]

I think you've taken my post a little out of context. lol I wasn't suggesting that if you "mess" up the maths test then that might be acceptable. Nor was I suggesting that if "your face fits" then you are a shoe in. This isn't American politics we're talking about here!

What I was actually saying is that I'd rather make a couple more mistakes than my competition and outperform them in the interview, than the other way around. I think it'd make more of an impact. And although the various tests are all important, I do believe that the interview is individually the most important. Yes if you fail maths or physics it doesn't matter how good you are in the interview; you're out. But for the marginal cases, I believe the interview will be the most significant differentiator. And it has nothing whatsoever to do with how "your face fits". My initial post was referring to the quality of your interview answers, not whether or not you fit some arbitrary stereotype. :)

[Speedy Birdy]

Hello everyone,

I am wondering if BA kept records of those of us who made it to Waterside last year and if yes, what kind of records.

Does anyone know anything or has an opinion on that ?

I am sure they would be interested to compare our old and new results in all the areas of the selection, especially the interview (remember question "b" of the first essay?).

[chocsaway08]

There seems to have been some deletion in posts for one reason or another but the individual had the right attitude. This forum is largely (very largely) based on gut instinct, speculation and convoluted theories as to what might occur at the assesment days. It's worth achknowledging that nothing you read in this thread is gospel and to go in with your eyes wide open.

[JonEverton]

I heard an interesting comment from an acquaintance who applied for the BA scheme,

They said they received an automatic 'not selected' email from Oxford.

I know their background ticked all the academic boxes with an engineering HND and 9 years experience in aerospace plus a PPL with over a hundred hours. They are knocking on for 30 though.

Makes me wonder what type of candidates BA Really want? I think young & "mouldable"

I would have thought a bit of age with relevant experience would be a plus but maybe it is more seen as "probably set in their ways"

[BitMoreRightRudder]

Far more likely your mate messed up the essay questions. BA place more importance on that area of the application than most candidates realise.

[Groundloop]

I'm pretty sure they would be willing to overlook a few rust-induced elementary arithmetic errors

I'm pretty sure they would expect you to revise and practice before the tests - to show that you are really committed.

[MaydayMaydayMayday]

JonEverton, both intakes have had successful candidates over 30. Actually, a couple over 40 have made it too.

[G-F0RC3]

Groundloop; I agree. :) But if you were otherwise the perfect candidate then I still think you have a shout.

Anyway - speculation over from me. I wish everyone the best of luck and if my application gets beyond the initial screening process I look forward to meeting some of you at the FTE selection day. :ok:

[futurepilot001]

I notice BA have not closed the application window early this year. In fact it's been extended for two days (due to the IT issues at the outset). Either way, it is a little bit interesting - perhaps there are fewer applications this time around compared to earlier rounds?

[futurepilot001]

Also, does anyone know whether the maths and physics tests are multiple choice? I did search around but there seems to be conflicting information.

[Lucky force]

I applied thinking I would get to the assessment day because of my qualifications. Thinking a MEng in Aerospace engineering with a 2:1 would get me through. I received an email saying I was unsuccessful and that I did not meet the requirements. It could be that they never scrolled down to see it as there was no date entry box for masters degree. I just graduated in June and I'm 23, so I don't think its the age.

[EB747]

Can anybody tell me how many actually make it to Stage 1 selection? I've been invited to Oxford and I know there are only around 20 of us, but that's only one day out of 11, possibly even 12 or 13 by tomorrow. And, of course, this is at OAA alone.

[EZY_FR]

Nobody here will be able to tell you how many got through to the 2nd stage.

[umkhan]

Is anyone else struggling to connect to the careers login page?

Kind regards,

umkhan

[Cfitz22]

BA site won't let me log on. Is anyone else having trouble??? 25 mins to deadline!!!

[aviator-P]

Ive been waiting to 2 hours to sign in.... Thank you very much BA!

[Cfitz22]

Aviator-P have you got in yet?? I'm the same, your not alone

[aviator-P]

got in one stage, but its server crashed and logged me out !!

[aviator-P]

And all i wanted to do this evening is to print of my summery and submit. bad times indeed

[Wizz219]

I have also been trying to log on since 21:00 with no luck, I have sent an email off regarding the technical issues tonight so maybe if enough of us have done that the deadline could be extended again. I understand people will say that you should never have left it to the last minute but I thought 3 hours would have been more than enough.

[Cfitz22]

I know. All I need to do is copy and paste my questions. It will take 2 mins! I hope they know what's going on, give an extra day or something

[SurreyGuy2013]

I've been trying to complete the final application question since 20:00. I've tried logging in on two computers and a phone using three different browsers.
The furthest I got was the application summary page once but nothing beyond that will load.

I will be calling them when they open at 8am. If they are going to have a deadline, at least ensure they have the systems to cope with the demands.

[EZY_FR]

What do we do if we can't get in due to their website?
I am so unbelievably nervous right now.

[Cfitz22]

I just emailed them. [email protected].

[EZY_FR]

Who else couldn't get their application in? Not a happy camper here. :mad:

[aviator-P]

i dont knw EZY_FR, hopefully they will grant an extension! But i highly doubt it

[EZY_FR]

I would advise everyone to send an email to BA so they can extend the window by another day.
[email protected]

[preshair]

I have sent an email as well... Seems like their website couldn't handle the traffic demand on the server :(

[JDA2012]

Finally got in. The posting appears to be closed as it now shows:

Status: ** NEVER COMPLETED **

I would advise dropping them a mail; there seems to be no alternative at this point.

[Megabus]

Ditto... :mad:

[EZY_FR]

I went on about an hour after the deadline and I was able to submit my application. It is now showing up as "Submitted" so I hope they have it.

[Dreamer380]

Hi Everyone, I was also unable to send my application last night. I sent them an e-mail to BA but no response as of yet. Does anyone have any suggestion?

I feel like a passenger who arrived on time for my flight, but the plane had already left! I can see some people are in the same position as me, what have you guys tried?

Thanks!

[Megabus]

I rang them - "they aware of the problem"...:ugh:

[leadnros]

hey did they say what they were going to do about it? i haven't heard back from them on email, thinking of giving them a call too

[Dreamer380]

I rang BA this afternoon and there was automated message being played that they aware of last night's problem. I spoke to a customer services member who said that they were looking for possible solution, but did not mention what that solution is or when they are looking to announce it. Looks like we will get to submit our applications! ;)

[chris-streeter]

Did anyone else try to send their applciation last night only to experience the website crashing due to excess traffic?

Due to this I wasn't able to send off my application.

Anyone have any suggestions for me?

[EZY_FR]

I would call them, if you check the phone number that is in one of the emails that BA sent you, they will help you. They told me they have recieved mine and it is has been passed on for screening :)

[lesyork]

Completed mine after the deadline, received a stage 1 email from CAE Oxford today.

[chris-streeter]

Anyone heard anything back this morning???

[JDA2012]

Called them; received a recorded message advising that they are aware of the difficulties last night (good news that these have been acknowledged) and to contact them by email at the address already noted. I shall await a response to my earlier email...

[chris-streeter]

What makes you so confident they will allow us to submit them?

[SurreyGuy2013]

This sounds a little more promising. I emailed them. I'll wait for a reply too...

[preshair]

Hi guys... I hope this has worked but I just submitted my application by going to http://www.britishairways.com/careers/login.shtml and logging in through the button at the top of the page.

Just received an email acknowledging my submission

Fingers crossed and good luck :)

[chris-streeter]

My Application says "Never completed"

And it doesn't have any other options available?

[Cesc_]

Why did so many of you leave it to the last minute basically? To be honest it would be very generous of BA to extend deadline for those that didn't get it in.

[Wizz219]

Just rang up and apparently they are currently going through about 500 emails and setting the applications back to incomplete so we can go in and finish it and then submit. She said it should be done within the next hour. Fingers crossed.

[chris-streeter]

Cesc - your comment is redundant. If they give you until 23:59 on the 28th, you should be able to apply up until that point.

Perhaps you could say we wanted to use every bit of time we had to ensure our applications were as best they could be?

[JDA2012]

Status now back to "Not submitted yet" and can be edited again - does not display quite correctly in FF but works fine in IE (which is BA's preferred browser).

Edit: Submitted - back to a slightly better kind of waiting...

[chris-streeter]

Mine still has no option to complete the application anyone else having trouble?

[Wizz219]

Neither has mine Chris, let's be patient I'm sure they will get round to our emails eventually.

EDIT: Just received an email that my application had been re-opened so completed it and finally sent it off. Fingers crossed now. Well done to BA for the understanding shown as well.

[preshair]

I managed to finish my application today and received an invitation to attend stage 1 of the selection process. This is with CAE Oxford Aviation Academy :)

[DNewcastle]

I applied to oxford just over a week ago but not heard anything since. I see a few people have had emails of acceptance or rejection . I don't suppose anyone else is in the same boat?

[BWSBoy6]

BA have emailed me and given me an extension until midnight to complete my application. However, I cannot send the online form as although I have completed all the sections, it keeps being rejected as incomplete! There is no box to tick to confirm completion :ugh:

[Callan]

CTC assessment date made! very exciting

[Jamesyd]

Hey Callan, when did you submit your application to CTC? I submitted 3 days ago but still haven't heard anything.

[Runway 37]

@DNewcastle

I applied through Oxford a few days ago and haven't heard anything yet as well. It surprises me that some people get invites on the same day, and others have to wait. But, I keep believing that is just a mere coincidence.

[EZY_FR]

Has anyone heard back from FTEJerez?

[Dreamer380]

I finally submitted my application, I am glad BA worked out a solution for those who were having trouble last night.

If anyone had the trouble last night I would suggest login on the website (British Airways - Login Page (http://www.britishairways.com/careers/login.shtml)) and completing as soon as possible because the deadline until mid-night tonight. If they are still having trouble take screen shots and send it on to BA and hopefully they can work out a solution. I really feel for anyone who is going to miss out of a technical issue which of non your fault at all.

Best of luck to all that applied!

[SurreyGuy2013]

I managed to complete the final question and submit it when I got home this evening. Really pleased that BA played fair about this.

Good luck everybody. :-)

[FiiS]

Submitted. For FTE Jerez. Nothing heard yet ...

[Home_Sweet_Holmes]

Good evening everyone!

Got my assessment day at OAA scheduled for next week... :eek:
I'm not sure if I'm excited, nervous, impatient or just feeling deeply desperate... :uhoh:

[squird02]

Hi All,
Is anybody scheduled to complete their assessment day at CAE OAA on the week commencing 9th Dec? Also, for those who have completed their assessment day... I was wondering if they gave a rough time as to when we would find out if we were successful?

[EZY_FR]

Due to the shear number of people applying, and with the wide variety of dates available, I would doubt you would hear anything until New Year at the earliest.

[futurepilot64]

I have only just come across this chat room so apologies for not contributing earlier. I have experienced a Oxford Assessment Day and thought I would share my experience (although I obviously can't go into detail about the day).

Basically I think its a complete farce. I was given an assessment day confirmation literally 3 hours after I completed my application form. Everyone I spoke to on the Assessment Centre also said they got confirmation within a few hours or a day or two at most. They initially put out 3 days, but now put on more days in December.

I feel its just a way to get you to pay up the £250 and for them to make some money.

In addition, the day itself was not at all worth the money. (They didn't even provide us with lunch!)

The interviewers themselves were quite rude to me. Obviously you expect a grilling and I have been in very tough interviews before, but these people were actually rude and made very personal comments.

I haven't yet heard from them so please don't take my experience as prejudiced, but to be honest I've been a little put off after it. Its just a way for them to make money of us.

I will be complaining to BA over the dismal assessment day Oxford managed to pull.

[Home_Sweet_Holmes]

Hi futurepilot,

That is very sad to hear... I am scheduled for next week and was expected a tough day but not such a grilling...
Do you know if any other candidates complain about this rudeness on their assessment day, or if you were just the unlucky one?

[squird02]

@futurepilot64

Sorry that you had such a bad experience at the selection day :eek:! In what way were the interviewers rude to you? i.e. were they rude in response to their questions or in relation to what you had written in your application? Also, did the interview actually last for 45mins or longer?

I was also wondering if you knew if any of the other candidates were treated in the same manner and if they gave an estimated date as to when you would receive your results?

@HomeSweetHolmes I'm also scheduled for next week... which day are you attending?

[EZY_FR]

futurepilot64

Interesting comments re the interviewers, can you explain to us why they were rude?

[LadyL2013]

Squird, it's a bit of a mixed message I'm afraid. We were told by one person that it was likely to be after new year and another said they would try to get them out ASAP. Sorry to not be of much help!

I'd say that once you've done it, relax and enjoy Christmas and try not to think about it too much. Easier said than done!

Futurepilot. It may very well be that people felt the same as you, but they may not wish to discuss it openly on here for obvious reasons.

[LastPastthePost]

I must admit that I have experienced that before at Oxford Aviation. I was lucky enough to be interviewed by the head of the FPP program at Oxford last year and she did quite a few things to unsettle me:
1. She kept standing up and leaving the room, then returning a few minutes later.
2. She basically called me a liar a few times. Ie I was talking about something and she said that she had seen no evidence of that.
3. Kept on going over things that we had already discussed when she wasn't in the room.
On the other hand, people at my day said they found the opposite. So it must be luck on who you get.

[Fostex]

So is the assessment at OAA a single day this year? Last year it was :-

Day 1 : Tour and computer based assessment

then if called back...

Day 2 : Group exercises and interview with current BA crew

[Home_Sweet_Holmes]

@LadyL2013 (http://www.pprune.org/members/413691-ladyl2013): Yes all the skill assessments have been crammed into one day at OAA this year, you're right.

@squird02 (http://www.pprune.org/members/403749-squird02): I've been called to OAA this Thursday, 5th..

[EZY_FR]

For those who have been through the process via FTE, when do FTE typically get back to you to inform you whether your application was successful or not? All this I am hearing about OAA and CTC already getting back to candidates is concerning me.

[G-F0RC3]

Mayday said: "Last time around the FTE assessment days were in January and the final assessments were in March."

I hope that's true again this time around. And if it is then us FTE candidates will probably be invited (or rejected) within the next week or two ahead of assessments scheduled for January. It's far more sensible - in my opinion - than rushing through the process and trying to get everyone assessed before Christmas.

[V_J]

I have only just come across this chat room so apologies for not contributing earlier. I have experienced a Oxford Assessment Day and thought I would share my experience (although I obviously can't go into detail about the day).

Basically I think its a complete farce. I was given an assessment day confirmation literally 3 hours after I completed my application form. Everyone I spoke to on the Assessment Centre also said they got confirmation within a few hours or a day or two at most. They initially put out 3 days, but now put on more days in December.

I feel its just a way to get you to pay up the £250 and for them to make some money.

In addition, the day itself was not at all worth the money. (They didn't even provide us with lunch!)

The interviewers themselves were quite rude to me. Obviously you expect a grilling and I have been in very tough interviews before, but these people were actually rude and made very personal comments.

I haven't yet heard from them so please don't take my experience as prejudiced, but to be honest I've been a little put off after it. Its just a way for them to make money of us.

I will be complaining to BA over the dismal assessment day Oxford managed to pull.

I'm sorry you had a bad day at OAA. It was different to my experience.

I feel I should probably contribute (although I did promise myself to walk away from prune for various reasons), for those who are now concerned about how awful their day at OAA will be.

I had the opposite day to the above description. I also haven't heard yet, so again I am impartial.

The day started with a brief after which a lovely chap came in and introduced himself. The main point of him coming in to speak to us was to explain that we could all go and chat to him during the day to give feedback to him about how the selection had been run. I'd suggest talking to him rather than BA? He did seem genuine about trying to make the day useful and even asked for feedback on the maps and information given to us.

I don't feel like it was a waste of time or money. £250 is a lot of money for everyone, but I really don't feel that I have been conned. The other candidates there were all very good and I would have struggled to cut even 20% let alone what OAA will be doing. I certainly don't think any of them were brought along simply to increase the OAA bank balance.

The OAA were never rude to me. I got a slight grilling in the group stage but that was because an error had been made and we deserved it. Grilling is not the same as being rude.

I've had some pretty horrendous interviews in my time, all of which were successful, and I've also done a fair share of recruitment. I don't feel that the staff were rude to me or anyone else at any time.

Any problems throughout the day were sorted immediately by the staff.

So thats my view on OAA. Hopefully no one else will have the experience described previously and your day will go as smoothly as mine did. If my dream job hadn't been on the line, I'd go as far as to say I'd enjoyed myself.

[squird02]

It looks like there are mixed views regarding the interviews at OAA... I guess that it really is luck of the draw!

What sort of time did everything start and finish at the assessment day? Also, did the interviews tend to last for 45 mins or did they over-run?

[carltoncole]

Applied to CTC 4 days after the applications opened, still not heard anything :bored:

[flygirlhopeful]

Anyone for CTC this Wednesday?

[Hismail]

Hi, I made my application to CTC around 20th November, still have not heard anything. Out of interest when did you apply?

[Home_Sweet_Holmes]

Hi Hismail,

I haven't applied to CTC but to OAA. However, to give you an idea, I applied on a Wednesday afternoon and got a reply in the morning the day after.

[hass_]

guys with assessment days with ctc, when did they contact you.
i've applied about 21st. not heard a word. good luck to all!

[Chelmo]

It says on the FPP website that year 1 salary consists of £22k basic salary, £8-10k allowances and £12k per year security bond repayment.

I think I read somewhere that the security bond is repaid tax free, is anyone sure of this?

The £22K will be taxed, and I'm assuming the flight allowances as well? Does anyone know how likely it is for you to get these allowances?

Also does anyone have any idea by how much the salary goes up each year particularly once the ATPL license becomes unfrozen? I think a salary forecast for the first few years is important to know to calculate how quickly a loan can be repaid for the security bond. I certainly wouldn't want to take 7 years to pay off the whole loan considering the accumulation of interest.

[thealf]

Just been told that they will notify all of us (invited and rejected) at the end of this week early next at the most.

[alvinsimcy]

same here...applied 4 days later haven't heard anything :(

[surrey95]

Hi Guys,

When do we have the Class 1 medical? Do we have to organise it ourselves?

Got accepted into OAA and got selection on the 12th, excited but nervous!

Cheers.

[G-F0RC3]

thealf; interesting information - thanks. But where did you hear it from and are they a reliable source? Any other info on when the assessment days will take place? :)

[thealf]

G-FORC3, I got the info from their facebook user, no info on the assessments though...

[LadyL2013]

Surrey,

As far as I am aware those lucky enough to be offered a place have the medical done at BA HQ after they have been given an offer of training. Again feel free to correct me if I am wrong.

[JDA2012]

Initial Class 1 Medicals can only be conducted with the CAA at Gatwick or by NATS; renewals can be done by any AME with the appropriate certification (speaking as someone that already holds and has renewed a Class 1).

Edit: Initial Class 1s can also be done at NATS since December 2012. Well, they weren't there when I did my initial. Good spot MtG, thank you.

Trip report on my (rather more expensive) CAA Class 1 Medical here for those wondering what it entails:

http://www.pprune.org/medical-health/488260-class-1-medical-passed-bonus-eye-lung-tests-trip-report.html

[MissTheGround]

You can actually do your class 1 initial with NATS at Swanwick nowadays, costs around £285 and is an extremely fast and pleasant experience.

[MaydayMaydayMayday]

Nicely streamlined experience at NATS and seems to take a lot less time than Gatwick, although obviously if you're in the area then just head to Gatwick.

Surrey, class 1 only needs done in good time for all the paperwork prior to course start dates. Suppose if you get it done earlier then there are no nasty surprises, although you may find you end up having to pay for the renewal yourself if it's due before a course start date, if successful.

LadyL2013, the medical you're referring to is a separate thing, not the class 1.

[flytheskies]

Hello All,Has anyone heard from (accepted or rejected) from CTC yet? I sent my application off waaaaay before the deadline and have heard nothing to date.

[A-380]

It looks like the FTE invitations are going out - I've just received mine :)

[Goldy37]

The same here, I applied to CTC way before the deadline and yet to recieve a responce. Time is going by very slowly... Fingers crossed though:ok:

[Scrookie]

I received an invite for the FTE assessment. I have already completed the assessment at FTE recently so I don't need to re-take it. What should I do?
I'm aware that I still need to go to the interview and the group exercise.

[EZY_FR]

When did you guys receive your invites? I haven't received anything yet :( .

[Wizz219]

I also received my invitation to FTE this morning. After a quick calculation it seems they will make about £33,000 out of the assessment days before expenditure but fair play to them, got to make money somehow. Good luck to everyone involved.

[bluesky77]

Yep, I've just received my invite for my assessment at FTE too! Exciting times ahead!!

[EZY_FR]

Hope FTE send out their verdicts in batches.

[JDA2012]

Hope FTE send out their verdicts in batches.

Ditto OAA!

[Jamesyd]

Just received a rejection from CTC.

[hass_]

Sad... Got my rejection from ctc.
Might apply for ctc wings but not sure if I can afford it.

Hopefully something will come along. Good luck to the others!

[Triflyer]

Bad day for us! I have also just had rejection from CTC. Did anyone who applied late on get an invite for CTC ???

[EZY_FR]

Is anyone here who applied to FTE still waiting on their outcome?

[BigOllyG]

Hope you guys still waiting hear something soon.

Good luck!

Anyone here going to the Oxford interview day on the 10/12/2013?

[PakThor]

I've received a rejection email from CTC as well. Not quite sure what went wrong with my application.

[squird02]

Today looks like the key day for application outcomes from CTC and FTE. Good luck to all of those who applied :ok:.

Is anybody on here booked in for their assessment on 9th Dec at OAA?

[Lord V]

I applied about 2 weeks ago and received and invite to FTE today.

A colleague applied at the last minute to CTC and received a rejection today. However, he was much better qualified and wrote much better answers in the application than I did (compared notes after submitting).

I wonder how many people who applied at the last minute, particularly to CTC (which is apparently the most popular), actually received an invite?

[NotBoeing_NotGoing]

Got my acceptance today for FTE Jerez. :-) Booked interview for Jan 7th.

[EZY_FR]

Having not received anything by now is not a good sign and am feeling quite depressed about it all :( .

[Captain_Bolt]

Having not received anything by now is not a good sign and am feeling quite depressed about it all .


I wouldn't feel depressed or nervous.

Whatever happens will happen. It may not be today, it may not be tomorrow but it will happen.

Honestly, take it easy, you'll get something soon. And whatever it is, I am sure it will be for the best.

[ben1]

EZY FR

I'd try not to worry about it too much just yet (obviously easier said than done), I wouldn't say no news is bad news at this stage as FTE have only just started sending out invites this morning! All the best to anyone still waiting!

[heronmak]

got my invitation for FTE today as well

[shaz111]

Did people receive a phone call or an email?

I got a call from FTE inviting me to interview, however still waiting on getting more detailed information on the assessment day.

[EZY_FR]

When did you get the phone call?

[bluesky77]

NotBoeing_NotGoing - see you at the assessment on the 7th then! I've also booked my slot on that date.

EZY_FR - don't despair! This in my opinion gives an indication that they are actually going through the applications in some detail.

When did you submit your application? I think I submitted mine just 2 or 3 days after the they started to accept applications.

[Knoydart]

Hi folks,

Good luck to all those who have an assessment. Somehow my form passed the initial screening and I selected an assessment in January with CAE OAA.

Now the hard part begins, particularly since it's been 15 years for me since I did any formal education, but thought I'd give it a go, last chance to realise that dream.

Any advice from those who've been through the ringer already would be appreciated.

Many thanks,

[Dreamer380]

I am also waiting to hear from FTE. I applied quite late and had trouble submitting my application, if my memory serves me correctly EZY_FR you were in similar position as me and had trouble submitting your application.

I take it as though they going through application as and when they were submitted. In my opinion we have as much as anybody else who have applied lets and wait and see what they will say.

Let's keep on dreaming! :ok:

[Rich123]

Does anyone know roughly how many people get invited to FTE interview? I can see people have invites for January. Mine choice is between 16-18th Dec

[Knoydart]

Folks,

Good luck to all those with an assessment date, some how managed to get past initial screening and booked in for an assessment in January.

The easy part over, now with 20 years of various occupations I have taken the last chance at the dream.

Anyone any advice that's been through the assessment. Trying to brush up on a few things...too late to re-learn, if I ever actually learnt it in the first place.

All, reasonable advice welcome.

Cheers.

[Hannah222]

Anyone applied to OAA but not had an answer yet? I've heard loads of people have got a date but I haven't seen any definite No's. I don't know if that's reassuring or not. I'm still waiting for an answer of any kind and its been nearly three weeks :(

[JDA2012]

Knoydart - it's good to see that OAA are offering January dates; I was getting worried they would soon all be over and done with. Also great that us "oldies" are getting a look in - you must be in the same ballpark as me (32 in Jan)?

Hannah222 - I also applied to OAA, very last minute (actually after they re-opened it due to technical problems), and have heard not a peep so far. I am hoping that as a PPL with excellent exam results (though quite long ago now!) and a good career history I will at least make a selection day, though who truly knows the criteria used...

[Fostex]

Made it to final stage at BA HQ last year via OAA. Applied last minute this year with problems submitting form. I felt my answers were as good as last year.

Hold 1st class MEng EEE, PPL + IR(R), 165hrs ( 110 hrs PIC ).

Received rejection from OAA today, go figure!

Best of luck to all progressing to the next round. Make sure you know the company inside out for any interviews and have it straight in your own head your motivation and reasons for joining the scheme.

[G-F0RC3]

I received my invitation to the first assessment day with FTE today too. There wasn't an option to choose a January date so my selection day is in December. That was a bit surprising, but I'm not concerned about it.

Place now confirmed, along with flights, hotel and hire car.

Good luck all. :)

[Runway 37]

I also applied to Oxford and haven't heard anything yet. Good to see that others are in the same position, that helps to keep the spirit up.

[Laurapintas]

Hi there

For those who applied to FTE Jerez and have already received the invitation, are you receiving a "No slots available." message when trying to book the slot?

[heronmak]

i left it for a day to pick a date for the interview. checked again today and same message appeared! no slots available! :O

[cpostiglione]

Hey guys,
I also applied to FTE Jerez and have not yet received a reply. For those of you that have already been accepted, what are the available dates for assessment? Best of luck to all of you! This forum has been a great source of information throughout the experience.
Thanks,
Clinton

[G-F0RC3]

I'm not sure the available dates will still be available. But they were offering dates from mid-Dec to 7th Jan (and possibly even further into the future).

Hope it's helpful.

[G-F0RC3]

Fostex; that does seem bizarre. Surely everyone deserves a second bite at the cherry, especially since your first bite was such a big one. :uhoh:

[EZY_FR]

This no slots available message is surely bad news for those who haven't heard back...

[JDA2012]

OAA positive reply just now (08:54 Thursday 5th Dec) - hope for those still waiting, and for those with last-minute applications. Good luck!

Thank you for your application for the British Airways Future Pilot Programme. Having reviewed your application we are delighted to invite you forward to attend Stage 1 of the selection process at CAE Oxford Aviation Academy.

I have booked in for 10th Jan - there were 11 more OAA places available (on 7th, 9th and 10th Jan) when I made my booking, the last place in December (on 16th) having been snapped up between my logging on and my going to book.

BigOllyG - see you there

:ok:

[heronmak]

surely BA must have enough slots for those who they have invited for assessment....anyone else in the same position as me (invited for assessment but no available slots)?

[B737_p91]

I am in the same situation as you heronmak...was invited to attend the assessment day and when I went to book there were no more slots available.

[G-F0RC3]

It's not BA heronmak, it's the FTOs. But yes, I'm sure they'll make new places available. They aren't stupid; they know that if they invite 1000 candidates then they'll need to be prepared to offer 1000 assessment day slots. So don't worry about it. ;) My suggestion would be to email them to ask.

[Laurapintas]

Thank you for the responses. I'm still receiving the same message.
After posting last night, I sent an email to BA explaining the situation. I haven't heard nothing from them since then but it is still early. Let's wait... :rolleyes:

[Wizz219]

@Laurapintas I am in the same position as you

Applied through FTE and invited to the Assessment days but now receiving the message "no slots available". I have emailed both FTE and BA just now but I sincerely hope this is just an error. Inviting more people than slots available is just ridiculous if that is in fact what has happened, giving people the excitement of the acceptance email only to shoot them down days later when they didn't book an assessment day within the first 24 hours. People will say "You should have booked it sooner" but when you have to sort out work, hotels, travel e.t.c this can take longer than a day. Fingers crossed anyway.

[matt1627]

Hi all,

I got my invitation to OAA today (09:12) having applied nearly 2 weeks ago. Have booked for 10th Jan, so will see you there JDA2012 (Good to know there will be another Mancunian there also)

Best

Matt

[G-F0RC3]

I'd be very surprised if you guys didn't get a slot after being invited, as there's absolutely no logic in them turning you away for not responding within 24 hours.

The process is not supposed to be a first-come-first-serve lottery. They invited you because they want to meet you and see what you have to offer. Therefore, they'll make arrangements to accommodate your interest. Try not to worry.

[Runway 37]

I got my invite for OAA selection this morning as well :). Booked for the 7th of january, any dutchies going that day by chance?

[EZY_FR]

Good to hear that people who submitted late are getting invited, well done. Just waiting for FTE now, and hopefully with good news, but I am not expecting miracles.

[alvinsimcy]

sorry to hear about those rejected from CTC :( still haven't gotten anything back from them...anybody like me here? :(

[Hannah222]

So despite the sad face yesterday, got an offer from OAA this morning. Booked for Mon Jan 6th. :)

[JDA2012]

Looking like a busy day for OAA, and I see that they are offering additional dates as the existing ones fill up. Dates now posted are 9th, 13th and 14th Jan. Obviously I am assuming they don't want us to go posting the booking calendar link...

[Bungusbeefcake]

Hey guys, I'm still waiting on a reply from OAA, I'm in Ireland so I was wondering if any Irish people having applied to OAA have got any replies yet?? I know the post over here is crap!!

[G-F0RC3]

Post? :confused:

They send emails, not snail mail. Or have I misunderstood you Bungus? :p

[Bungusbeefcake]

They send email?? Oh, I assumed it was post!!

[Hannabelle]

Hello All,

I have my assessment day 20th December at OAA and was just wondering if anyone had already been and completed their assessment day - could they give us some helpful tips; I'm not looking to get answers on how to pass the tests just what to expect fom the Academy/people etc anything they would have done differently that they could share with us?

I am staying in a hotel the night before not that far away is it clearly sign post as to get to the academy?

Thanks, and good luck to all those going on assessment days.

[EZY_FR]

More info regarding FTE:
I contacted FTE about what was going on and apparently they haven't looked at everyone's applications yet and they are planning to have selection days up until the 24th January. So its just a case of being patient now. I would take this with the side of caution however as the woman's first language wasn't english.

[EB747]

@Hannabelle The centre's in the airport. You shouldn't have any trouble finding that. Then when you get to security, they'll tell you where to go.

[beng123]

May I remind you all, this is a COMPETITIVE process and disclosing "things you would have done differently" surely gives an advantage to someone who is yet to have their assessment, and is unfair on everyone else who have already sat their assessments. This was mentioned on more than one occasion, with specific reference to pprune at a recent assessment day.

[Flutter speed]

Hi, I am invited by FTE. However since the invite came in yesterday and there were only very few slots available, I have less then 2 weeks to prepare. One of the requests is to bring statements of equivalency for your grades to the assessment day. I informed with NARIC but they cannot guarantee even the fast track service to be on time for my assessment.

Does anybody know what the real requirements are? My masters and bachelor grades are all in English anyway. Only my education before that is all in my own language.

I guess they expect me to bring this paperwork regardless :ooh: any of you experience with this?

Thanks!

[W1ll93]

Applied to CTC a few days before the initial closing date and still haven't heard anything back just yet. I'm not too surprised it's taking some time, plenty of applications to go through. So don't worry, you aren't the only one @alvinsimcy.
It doesn't look like they are going through applications based on where you applied from though... It was one of my original thoughts.

[Hannabelle]

@EB747 Thanks very much for that.

@beng123 I am like i said "not looking to get answers on how to pass the tests" and when i say "things you would have done differently I mean" anything from going a different way to the airport because of roadworks, taking some food with you because lunch isnt until later than you think and the tests are draining, or staying in a certain hotel because other applicants seemed to stay their and so it´s a could opportunity to meet some people the evening before. We are all adults here we do realise it is a competition you dont have to give the game away to be helpful.

[All at sea]

Hey all

I've been monitoring the forum for a while and figured its about time to join in. Just wanted to say a big congrats to all those invited to assessment and good luck! I've applied to CTC and haven't heard anything yet...first time applying after finishing my 5 year contract with my last job. Excited about this possible opportunity to say the least!!

Hope to chat to you all soon and maybe see some of you at an assessment day! :)

[am59fly]

I have also applied to CTC, not heard anything yet though. Seems that no news is good news so far, as I believe applicants that were rejected have been informed.

Fingers crossed !

[skylark89]

got my CTC Rejection. Spent a good 2 hours writing in the answers. Wonder what went wrong.. OH WELL. Good luck to all those who haven't heard from CTC!

[JDA2012]

I spent about six hours on the two essay questions (and who knows how long for the full application), plus a substantial time attempting to trim the resulting walls of text into something meeting the 500-word restrictions (the fields actually being limited to a rather longer - unless you showed sesquipedalian loquaciousness ;) - 4000 characters, but I thought it best to adhere to the stated specification as well as the technical limit).

[LadyL2013]

I think how long you spent on the application is a bit redundant really. You could spend half an hour and produce the same result as spending 4 days. Of course something so important you want to take the time to get right, don't get me wrong.

But time spent on application doesn't neccessarily equal how good your answers will be. I'm willing to bet people who spent both hours and minutes on their applications got both rejections and acceptances.

[G-F0RC3]

Completely disagree with the above two posts. In some exceptional circumstances someone may be able to produce the best possible result they could have hoped to achieve by spending a very short time on it. But that would be more of a reflection on their weak English skills than anything else. In the vast majority of cases I think you'll find the quality of the answer is (to a large degree) directly proportional to the amount of time spent conceiving it. By your philosophy, at my more than 100 word per minute typing speed I could write a novel in a day. But do you think it would be a good one? ;)

And it's moot to suggest that the quality of your answers is irrelevant so long as it gets you to the initial assessment. Do you really think the initial screening process is the first and last time anyone will look at your answers? :)

[LadyL2013]

But that's not what I've said at all. I clearly have said that you should thoroughly consider your answers and put a lot of thought into them - it is the dream after all.

All I'm saying is that hours and hours spent on an application doesn't necessarily equal success. It might do, but it might not. You only have to look at this thread to see that some people who spent ages on their applications didn't get through and others did. It is not set in stone. I therefore thought it was unfair to essentially assume another poster hadn't had a response merely based on the amount of time they had spent answering.

[funkyt111]

G-force.

I could not agree more. I personally spent the full two weeks on my answers. I wanted to make sure that they absolutely reflected my desire to become a pilot and also reflected my suitability for the role/BA whilst making sure that it was written grammatically perfect and professional. I then had my older brother (being a doctor and highly literate) proof read it for me and make any adjustments he felt were necessary.
Spending just 1 hour on this application just doesn't seem entirely wise to me. This may or may not have been the reason why some people did not make it to the initial interview stage but either way, it makes more sense to spend as much time on the application as possible to give yourself the best possible chance.

Also, as G-force said, the initial application plays a big role in the whole assessment particularly at the final stages. For eg. If you were an interviewer and you had two applicants who performed equally as well in all aspects of the the assessment process and ticked all the boxes in the interview but they couldn't particularly remember your face etc. What do you think will be the deciding factor?

[funkyt111]

LadyL

I think how long you spent on the application is a bit redundant really. You could spend half an hour and produce the same result as spending 4 days.

Well in reality that's not really true is it?

Look at the following scenarios.

Let's say applicant A is equally as strong at writing as applicant B. Applicant A spends 7 days on his/her application. Applicant B spends 1 hour. Whose application answers are likely to be better?

Let's say applicant A is a STRONGER writer than applicant B and applicant A spends much longer on his/her answers then applicant A's answers are going to be more than likely much better.

Let's say applicant A is a WEAKER writer than applicant B but applicant A still spends 7 days compared to 1 hour on there application, whose application answers are likely to be stronger? Again, most likely applicant A. Applicant B could not have produced there absolute best work in 1 hour.

Give yourself the best chance folks and take your time. :ok:

[LadyL2013]

Have a read of my clarification at the top of the page.

I have said one should take their time and really put a lot of effort into their answers. I don't know how much more clearly I can say that. Don't rush your application at all. I am just saying that time spent on application isn't necessarily equal to the end result.

Some will have spent ages on their application and others less time, but BOTH will have received rejections and acceptances.

Personally, I spent a long time thinking about how I wanted to say what I wanted to say. It is the most meaningful application I have made. BUT I wouldn't presume that JUST BECAUSE I spent ages on it means that it is any better than anyone elses who may have spent more or less time than me.

[Chelmo]

Has anyone else received an invite to assessment/rejection from OAA today?

I am surprised that they instantly replied to a lot of candidates initially within a few hours of receiving their applications (which filled up a couple weeks worth of assessment dates) and yesterday they suddenly start inviting candidates who it appears they had not originally responded to for a long time (irrespective of if they applied in the first or last week of application window) and opened up a whole extra week of assessments for these candidates.

Just wondering if everyone who applied to OAA has now either been given an invite to assessment or rejection or are there still people waiting to hear back?

[G-F0RC3]

Voltozonic; :) the (exact) part that I disagree with is "...time is irrelevant." Clearly, this isn't a "fact". :ok: Time is absolutely relevant, and most people produce better results by investing more time on something. If I were a betting man I'd be willing to bet a large amount of money on there being a strong correlation between the time spent writing a response and the quality of that response.

And if you go back in time to page 72 of this topic you'll see a post by Lindsay Craig (Head of Pilot Recruitment at BA), which is highly indicative that he agrees with me. I quote:

...do take care not to rush your application unnecessarily - this process requires thought and care and success won't come from sending in the first words you can think of in the shortest possible amount of time.

LadyL; :) you said:

I think how long you spent on the application is a bit redundant really. You could spend half an hour and produce the same result as spending 4 days. Of course something so important you want to take the time to get right, don't get me wrong.

But time spent on application doesn't neccessarily equal how good your answers will be. I'm willing to bet people who spent both hours and minutes on their applications got both rejections and acceptances.

While it's possible to spend half an hour on an answer and get the same quality that you would have achieved had you spent 4 days on it, it's quite unlikely. But even if you did prepare what you initially thought was the best you could do in the first half hour, why wouldn't you sleep on it and look at it with a fresh pair of eyes the next day? And why wouldn't you get the opinions of people you value the opinions of to see if your answer could be improved? You might end up with exactly the same response that you produced in that first half hour, but at least you'd have used all the resources at your disposal to ensure that it really was the best you could do.

You are right that the length of time spent on the application doesn't necessarily determine its quality. It just probably does in most cases. Therefore referring to it as "...a bit redundant" is - in my opinion - simply wrong in the vast majority of cases.

But anyway; I genuinely wish you both the best of luck with this process. I'm not here to argue; but a little heartfelt debate from time to time can never be a bad thing. :p

[LadyL2013]

G,

I think we're at cross purposes a bit. I COMPLETELY agree with everything you say, don't get me wrong. Redundant was the wrong word to use, which is why I clarified with further posts. Perhaps 'not a guarantee' would have been a better term to use.:)

I guess I just felt it was a bit unfair that a poster was jumped on because they spent 2 hours on an application and another poster was presuming this is the reason they hadn't heard anything, which in reality no one could know.

Good Luck to you too and hopefully we may meet on the flight deck one day:)

[Tomahawkgirl]

Sorry to interrupt!

Has anyone still not heard back from CTC?!

I'm starting to worry they haven't even received my application since I didn't get a confirmation email.

Wondering if it's worth giving someone a call.

[LadyL2013]

Have you checked your junk folder? I know some people who got their confirmatiuon and responses sent there instead of their inbox.

I think it absolutely can't hurt to give them a call if you can't find a response.

Good luck!:)

[Tomahawkgirl]

Yes I have. I've also been checking the email section of my application regularly.

Thanks. Not quite sure who to call though!

[squird02]

@Tomahawkgirl

I would definitely give CTC a call. When I spoke to OAA before the application window opened they confirmed that any online applications were sent directly to the FTOs for assessment, not BA.

[am59fly]

@Tomahawkgirl

I applied for CTC and have not heard anything yet either, I'll let it go until Monday I think, but if I've not heard by then I'll probably give them a call.

[RMC]

Just done the OAA assessment with some strong competition (based on group ex and background). Told that we were unlikely to hear before Christmas.AFAIK none of the OAA attendees over the last few weeks have had a rejection. That they are only just inviting candidates, whom they originally considered submitted weaker applications, suggests that there have not been enough overall performances that ticked all the boxes. OAA are competing with FTE and CTC and if at Waterside their candidates perform better then OAA will lose out.

[All at sea]

I'm in the same boat.

I haven't heard a peep from CTC...getting just a little but worried. Looking at the forum though, it doesn't seem like many people have heard anything from CTC. Either they're taking their time or they're just inviting unbelievably amazing candidates.

I hope they're just taking a little longer than OAA or I'm just waiting patiently for a rejection email which will put a severe dampener on my mood.

[Jask99]

I have my OAA interview in just over a week and was wondering if anyone knew of any good sites for samples of the compass tests and practise to help me along in my prep? Thanks

[Lord V]

I spent ages deciding what to say on my application, but then I haven't filled this sort of application before.

A work colleague, who is extremely well qualified, worked hard on his application, and wrote excellent answers, was rejected by CTC having applied at the last minute. He has it on 'good authority' that CTC simply mass guillotined late applications without considering them, as there were so many.

Whether or not this is the case, I strongly suspect that if I had applied to CTC then mine would have been rejected too, and this factored in to my decision to apply to FTE (where I am going for assessment next month).

While I realise that there are many variables in play, and one can really only speculate, I feel that there is a very strong case for the invitations to assessment to be carried out by BA rather than the FTOs, as there cannot possibly be equivalence in selection outcomes.

I feel better going forward as I believe that, in the forthcoming stages, my fate is much more in my own hands.

[alvinsimcy]

still waiting for a reply from CTC here too. My friend went for their assessment day last wednesday and he said the staff there are still going through applications so i guess we're gonna have to give it some time before we hear anything :ok:

[Bungusbeefcake]

Just got an email from OAA 2 hours ago for an invite, strange time to receive it but very welcome!! Can't wait to go!!

[W1ll93]

I really don't think it's anything to worry about. I also still haven't received an invite or rejection from CTC. There seems to be quite a number of people in the same situation. I suspect we will be hearing back in the first few days of this week coming.
If you never received a confirmation email, I would probably give them a call tomorrow morning, won't do any harm. What does it say on your BA application page? Is the status of your application *Submitted*?

Good luck to all.

[Callan]

Having read through previous posts, it seems no one has heard from CTC? I submitted my application on the final day, heard back a week later and have completed my assessment. Keep waiting everyone! They are sending positive ones out too :)

[Bungusbeefcake]

Hey guys, for any of you going or having gone to OAA, where did you stay the night before?? Also if you have any idea how much it was and what the cost of travel from there to the academy was would be a great help!

Thanks!!

[Yobier]

I submitted my application on the 22nd of November and haven't heard anything yet. However, last week I e-mailed BA if they can confirm receiving my application. They responded the same day that my application is received and CTC is reviewing the applications.

Said that, it was a week ago and I still haven't heard anything.

[Jask99]

Bungusbeefcake

I have my accommodation booked at the OAA halls for the night before. You ring the number given on the PDF attached to your email saying you have been chosen to go to selection stage one about accommodation. I think it was £33, but don't quote me on that, and there's no food included

[Martijn123]

Got an email from OAA saying that all applications for the BAFPP at OAA have been screened and answered. OAA seems to be the quickest of the 3 FTOs screening applications.

Otherwise if you haven't received anything at all, check "your emails" when you login at ba.com/careers. When there is nothing as well send an email to OAA.

[Airsick1]

CTC seems to be notoriously bad at getting back to FPP applicants -after all, this is the third year running for BAFPP and it seems they still haven't got their act together. I have been reading posts such as yours for 3 years now. I think their attitude towards applicants is pretty appalling to be honest - the customer experience with this company is certainly unique - they simply don't seem to care. At least FTE and OAA both have the right customer service approach.

In short, the fact that you haven't yet heard means nothing ...and to CTC you are nothing. All they are interested in is your money if you are successful. Glad I dont' have to go through this process ...but if I did, I would not be spending my money with them. Awful.

[timbuck2]

CTC guys, check your junk mail!! My email was buried in there (successful, happily!), but I'd have been properly gutted if I'd missed it. It doesn't look very official mind you, just a plain text email with a couple of links - not quite the 'ta-da!' I was expecting!

[planedrive]

@airsick

Why would you say that CTC responding slowest means they don't care? Perhaps they would rather take the time to select the right candidates rather than sending everyone for assessment (and making more money out of people who have no chance?)

Personally, I would be much less happy if, after spending hours and hours on my application, I got an email inviting me for assessment within hours. That would imply to me that they had not even been given a cursory glance and were just inviting everyone who applied to line their pockets with the selection fees!

[Yobier]

@ timbuck2

You got yours in the junk at the 9th or received it earlier?

[EZY_FR]

Just received the rejected email from FTE... :( Can't say I'm not disappointed, but I do wish the best of luck to everyone.

[PlaneVanilla]

I went to OAA for my assessment yesterday. Since it's essentially a competition, I shan't give anything away, so please don't PM me asking for inside tips :). I actually enjoyed the day. I was given the chance to show what I am capable of; there were no trick questions. So, to those of you perhaps dreading the day in light of certain comments on this board - don't. Prepare well and you'll do well.

[G-F0RC3]

EZY_FR; sorry to hear it. But keep your chin up, you'll get other opportunities (at FPP etc) in future.

[Joesimpson]

EZY FR

Sorry to hear that, did you meet the minimum academic requirements ? as it seems that OAA and CTC are allot more keen to asses anyone who meets the minimum requirements. whereas FTE seem as if they have taken time to review the applications and therefore are assessing less applicants ?

[am59fly]

Just got an email, passed phase 1, selection centre is booked next week.

[carltoncole]

The dreaded but not entirely unexpected rejection email has arrived from CTC.

Good luck to all of you!

[aviator-P]

Hey PlaneVanilla,

Was your interview at OAA conducted by both OAA and BA staff or just the OAA recruitment team ?

[timbuck2]

@Yobier I got it on the 6th, but as my iPhone doesn't sync my junk for some reason it wasn't until I checked on a desktop that I saw it! Plus, the only available date was the 16th December - I've got a week to prepare! ARGHH! :eek:

[Dreamer380]

@ EZY_FR

I am in the same boat as you received my rejection e-mail too from FTE today:confused: I remember we had trouble submitting our application on the deadline, I hope this did not play against us!

Nevertheless lets keep our heads high and keep on trying.

Best of luck to all of those who are still in game!

[timbuck2]

@am59fly the 16th? If so then see you there! :ok:

[am59fly]

@timbuck2 It is the 16th. 0900. Pretty short notice :eek:
Have you arranged accommodation etc. ?

[All at sea]

So got my rejection email from CTC today...fairly gutted. Good luck to everyone with interviews!!