View Full Version : How do I get an FISO license?
Courtman
17th Jun 2002, 20:51
I am interested in becoming a FISO so I can work at a local aerodrome and help out etc. The idea is it will pass some time and keep me in aviation once I'm made redundant next year. I have a PPL with 650hrs, IMC etc., and have worked in an airline Ops department specialising in ATC and slot management for 8 years. I have a Class One medical, although I'm not sure if that is a requirement for a FISO.
What do I need to do to get the license? Is it difficult? Is it costly (probably if the CAA are involved)?
Any pointers would be greatly appreciated!
:) :cool: :p :cool: :)
Spitoon
17th Jun 2002, 21:00
Take a look at CAP 427 (http://www.caa.co.uk/docs/33/CAP427.pdf).
niknak
18th Jun 2002, 22:19
Why not go for the full atco licence?
It's hard work, and expensive if you're funding it yourself, but worth it.:)
Tahuna
19th Jun 2002, 06:12
Why not write to the three ATC Colleges, there's probably a course out there somewhere!
WX Man
19th Jun 2002, 07:30
Do people do that? Has anyone ever paid for their own ATC licence?
(He says, formulating 'Plan B' in case 'Plan A' goes tits up)
Chilli Monster
19th Jun 2002, 07:48
Wx Man
Yes :)
Used to be quite common in the days when you could self study. However, since the introduction of RGAT back in 95 I know of 3 people who have paid for their own Tower courses (me included).
Back then it cost me £12K, I think now it's nearer £18/19K. Bear in mind though that there's no guarantee you'll pass the course, in which case you've blown the cash. Then if you do get through there's no guarantee of a job. There are a lot of ADC only ATCO's out there, the shortage is for APP and APR qualified people. (I was lucky enough to get someone else to pay for those ;))
It's a big gamble, but it can pay off.
CM
The best bet is to go down to your local aerodrome and speak to the FISO's there, the requirement is to pass two ground exams, air law and procedures i think it is, this is general RT and responsibilities of a FISO etc.. the second you shouldnt have to do because of your PPL it being Met. After that you need to do 40 hours on the job training with a qualified FISO, once this is complete and your ready, you will do a validation, ie proving to a local CAA examiner that you can do the job. The two ground exams you can self study for, i think the books required can be downloaded from the caa website, however as said before your gonna have to approach your local unit for advise and training.
hope this helps :)
ginj