Resigned from BA to fly the BBJ !!!
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Having been pichforked out of the carriers, the line folded, and into exec, I had mouths to feed I was an unwilling participant in that route. It had after all taken a long hard slog to get where I was.That said it's been extremely interesting and never dull. I have kept up with peers, now all over the world with various airlines. Do I regret that I am not flying a 340/744, yes! Have I had fun, yes!
It's certainly been a great experience and I've probably seen more of the world than I would have with my old airline, and we had a pretty good route structure, though not as good as BA.
One is definitely not as hand held and mollycodled as the line pilots. You are out there doing your stuff in a different place every day, and taking care of quite a lot more in the way of general duties. Catering cleaning buying mags, toiletries filing flt plans coping with luggage, handling agents fuel, toilets etc, etc not to mention some pretty pampered people in the back who think, indeed are, pretty special. Your routes depend on the boss. Most of them though get the big iron to travel around long distances in comfort and like new exciting destinations. For you that means exotic,ie not too travelled and that's extra work. Exec in the light jets don't tend to go as far afield as the BAC's 72's GV's Globals, tend to be a tad more on the grunt work/ lower pay side of things, been there and got that T shirt too.. The BBG crowd however are at the top end of the table near the scones and cream puffs so you've definitely moved to the right side of the tracks.
It can be great if you've got good folks with you, it's a small family and can be cosy or it can be hell. Good girls in the back make life a lot easier and always remember they bring you your food. I've gone pretty pale at some of the stories I have been told by the ladies in the back, and a lot of them are ex-airline too.
It will be interesting, and if it's a good outfit and a nice boss you will never regret the day. I wish you all the best.
P.S Got a son whose trying for BA he's been applying since he was at school he still reckons that where the Grail resides. Who know for him it might. he's through exec and on to charter and still hoping.
It's certainly been a great experience and I've probably seen more of the world than I would have with my old airline, and we had a pretty good route structure, though not as good as BA.
One is definitely not as hand held and mollycodled as the line pilots. You are out there doing your stuff in a different place every day, and taking care of quite a lot more in the way of general duties. Catering cleaning buying mags, toiletries filing flt plans coping with luggage, handling agents fuel, toilets etc, etc not to mention some pretty pampered people in the back who think, indeed are, pretty special. Your routes depend on the boss. Most of them though get the big iron to travel around long distances in comfort and like new exciting destinations. For you that means exotic,ie not too travelled and that's extra work. Exec in the light jets don't tend to go as far afield as the BAC's 72's GV's Globals, tend to be a tad more on the grunt work/ lower pay side of things, been there and got that T shirt too.. The BBG crowd however are at the top end of the table near the scones and cream puffs so you've definitely moved to the right side of the tracks.
It can be great if you've got good folks with you, it's a small family and can be cosy or it can be hell. Good girls in the back make life a lot easier and always remember they bring you your food. I've gone pretty pale at some of the stories I have been told by the ladies in the back, and a lot of them are ex-airline too.
It will be interesting, and if it's a good outfit and a nice boss you will never regret the day. I wish you all the best.
P.S Got a son whose trying for BA he's been applying since he was at school he still reckons that where the Grail resides. Who know for him it might. he's through exec and on to charter and still hoping.
Guest
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On the other hand, if you're flying Fordair's new BBJs I suspect that there isn't that much diversity in your destinations. Or am I wrong in thinking this?
By the way I saw Fox Echo make its first appearance at our local airport (MST) last Monday. Although many of you already have, may I remind others that you're always welcome to visit "Maastricht Control". Simply call 3661234 and ask for the Ops Room Centre Supervisor. Then during our break you can take us for a quick spin in your new toy
By the way I saw Fox Echo make its first appearance at our local airport (MST) last Monday. Although many of you already have, may I remind others that you're always welcome to visit "Maastricht Control". Simply call 3661234 and ask for the Ops Room Centre Supervisor. Then during our break you can take us for a quick spin in your new toy
Guest
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Good luck to you Bobby and yes, as others have asked, please keep us informed of your progress etc.
One other thing: For those of us still in the airline rat race who might at some stage want to do the same thing, can you offer any tips on how you found the job? Did you carpet-bomb the operators you wanted to work for with CV's, did you have contacts, or what?
Sorry, yet another thing: how do the pay and benefits compare?
All the best.
Joe
One other thing: For those of us still in the airline rat race who might at some stage want to do the same thing, can you offer any tips on how you found the job? Did you carpet-bomb the operators you wanted to work for with CV's, did you have contacts, or what?
Sorry, yet another thing: how do the pay and benefits compare?
All the best.
Joe
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Sorry for late response but have been away flying my A.. off. Congratulations Bobby, I am sure you will enjoy the new world of Corporate Aviation. Thanks Crashdive, I don't know if I can offer any more advise I think all the posts have pretty much covered
it. Bobby give my regards to Trevor & Wes when you see them!! see I know!! GA is a small world. Have great fun.
it. Bobby give my regards to Trevor & Wes when you see them!! see I know!! GA is a small world. Have great fun.
Guest
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Hi folks,
Finished two days in the sim at crack of sparrows then flew to Northern Africa then to Agadir the next day then back to STN. Following Tuesday went to Wichita to get the Winglets put on and just got back.
Off again in the morning.
Its deffinately different to BA. The operating procedures are very different and sitting in the right hand seat and reading Jepps blew my mind on my first 15min Sector.
Oh well I'll #### happens.
I didnt have my logon details for prune with me so I'll take them with me next time.
Regards
Bobby J
Finished two days in the sim at crack of sparrows then flew to Northern Africa then to Agadir the next day then back to STN. Following Tuesday went to Wichita to get the Winglets put on and just got back.
Off again in the morning.
Its deffinately different to BA. The operating procedures are very different and sitting in the right hand seat and reading Jepps blew my mind on my first 15min Sector.
Oh well I'll #### happens.
I didnt have my logon details for prune with me so I'll take them with me next time.
Regards
Bobby J
Guest
Posts: n/a
Hi folks,
Finished two days in the sim at crack of sparrows then flew to Northern Africa then to Agadir the next day then back to STN. Following Tuesday went to Wichita to get the Winglets put on and just got back.
Off again in the morning.
Its deffinately different to BA. The operating procedures are very different and sitting in the right hand seat and reading Jepps blew my mind on my first 15min Sector.
Oh well I'll #### happens.
I didnt have my logon details for prune with me so I'll take them with me next time.
Regards
Bobby J
Finished two days in the sim at crack of sparrows then flew to Northern Africa then to Agadir the next day then back to STN. Following Tuesday went to Wichita to get the Winglets put on and just got back.
Off again in the morning.
Its deffinately different to BA. The operating procedures are very different and sitting in the right hand seat and reading Jepps blew my mind on my first 15min Sector.
Oh well I'll #### happens.
I didnt have my logon details for prune with me so I'll take them with me next time.
Regards
Bobby J
Guest
Posts: n/a
BJ,
Sounds like an interesting transition. A couple of questions for you:
1. How was the transition to the NG cockpit - full EFIS screens? How do you like the BBJ versus your previous 737-200/400?
2. How do you like the long-distance flying versus your previous short hops?
3. How far afield do you expect to fly in the BBJ? Asia? North America? Most frequent likely destinations?
Sounds like really interesting flying - I still think you made the right decision. Keep us posted.
Envious...
[This message has been edited by LAVDUMPER (edited 29 January 2001).]
Sounds like an interesting transition. A couple of questions for you:
1. How was the transition to the NG cockpit - full EFIS screens? How do you like the BBJ versus your previous 737-200/400?
2. How do you like the long-distance flying versus your previous short hops?
3. How far afield do you expect to fly in the BBJ? Asia? North America? Most frequent likely destinations?
Sounds like really interesting flying - I still think you made the right decision. Keep us posted.
Envious...
[This message has been edited by LAVDUMPER (edited 29 January 2001).]
Guest
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BJ,
Was that you this morning at STN? I arrived in one of our BBJ's just before you set off for Agadir, your plane looks better with winglets! Ours have them fitted as well, how do you find descending and slowing down at the same time compared with the other 737's youve flown?
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'Keep the stress down'
Was that you this morning at STN? I arrived in one of our BBJ's just before you set off for Agadir, your plane looks better with winglets! Ours have them fitted as well, how do you find descending and slowing down at the same time compared with the other 737's youve flown?
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'Keep the stress down'
Guest
Posts: n/a
BJ,
Was that you this morning at STN? I arrived in one of our BBJ's just before you set off for Agadir, your plane looks better with winglets! Ours have them fitted as well, how do you find descending and slowing down at the same time compared with the other 737's youve flown?
------------------
'Keep the stress down'
Was that you this morning at STN? I arrived in one of our BBJ's just before you set off for Agadir, your plane looks better with winglets! Ours have them fitted as well, how do you find descending and slowing down at the same time compared with the other 737's youve flown?
------------------
'Keep the stress down'
Guest
Posts: n/a
Evening Shanny,
Glad to see youre still around, I had a bit of finger trouble with my posting. Echo? Is this some sort of northern humour that us Essex lads dont get?
Whats the latest? Any developments? Surely you dont want to still get back to this side of the fence.
Regards.
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'Keep the stress down'
Glad to see youre still around, I had a bit of finger trouble with my posting. Echo? Is this some sort of northern humour that us Essex lads dont get?
Whats the latest? Any developments? Surely you dont want to still get back to this side of the fence.
Regards.
------------------
'Keep the stress down'
Guest
Posts: n/a
Good Evening Sir,
Echo.....Echo..... get it?
Anyway, no developments to speak of other than possible industrial action at VS.
Security's fairly good and I enjoy the time off but that's about it.
Given the right job with the right company I'll be off.
Enjoying the BBJ then?
Must go now. JFK tomorrow.
Brgds
Shanny
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hhhiiisssssccrrrraaaacckkkllesssshhhhhh
Echo.....Echo..... get it?
Anyway, no developments to speak of other than possible industrial action at VS.
Security's fairly good and I enjoy the time off but that's about it.
Given the right job with the right company I'll be off.
Enjoying the BBJ then?
Must go now. JFK tomorrow.
Brgds
Shanny
------------------
hhhiiisssssccrrrraaaacckkkllesssshhhhhh
Guest
Posts: n/a
Hi Guys,
Yes you were right stress free it was me at STN on our way to Agadir, then Jeddah, it sounds like you cant F**t without someone knowing what you are doing in the corp world. In BA you could just hide in the shadows.Better be carefull what I say.
Well to give you guys an idea of how it is going. Overall it is great, operationally it is taking a bit of getting used to, there is a great divide between the way an airline operates a 737 and the way corporate do it, I'll just have to get used to it. Fortunately the flying of the aircraft is the same its just the procedures. I suppose in BA there are lots of people concentrating on SOP's. Boeing seem to have some glaring omissions in their checklists and SOP's, but that another story.
With regard to lifestyle, its pretty good, the only thing I'm having to get used to is the fact I dont know when I'm going to get a day off in the two months Im working. I work two months on and one month off.
I have in the past done alot of web site design and am thinking about doing a site purely fpr Corporate Pilots, with a forum, with categories for each corp aircraft, a facility that will enable you to pick up your email from any Internet browser, so you can logon at any hotel, a bit like hotmail, but using your own POP accounts.
Its probably a bit selfish but its a way of finding out more about the aircraft Im flying. What do you all think and what would you like to see on it if I did.
Well thats it for a while.
The boss likes to keep everything reasonably low key so I cant go into any specifics, ie whats the cabin like etc, so you will forgive me if I cant anwser all your questions. However if you hear me airborne in VP-BRM say hello to Bobby!!
Yes you were right stress free it was me at STN on our way to Agadir, then Jeddah, it sounds like you cant F**t without someone knowing what you are doing in the corp world. In BA you could just hide in the shadows.Better be carefull what I say.
Well to give you guys an idea of how it is going. Overall it is great, operationally it is taking a bit of getting used to, there is a great divide between the way an airline operates a 737 and the way corporate do it, I'll just have to get used to it. Fortunately the flying of the aircraft is the same its just the procedures. I suppose in BA there are lots of people concentrating on SOP's. Boeing seem to have some glaring omissions in their checklists and SOP's, but that another story.
With regard to lifestyle, its pretty good, the only thing I'm having to get used to is the fact I dont know when I'm going to get a day off in the two months Im working. I work two months on and one month off.
I have in the past done alot of web site design and am thinking about doing a site purely fpr Corporate Pilots, with a forum, with categories for each corp aircraft, a facility that will enable you to pick up your email from any Internet browser, so you can logon at any hotel, a bit like hotmail, but using your own POP accounts.
Its probably a bit selfish but its a way of finding out more about the aircraft Im flying. What do you all think and what would you like to see on it if I did.
Well thats it for a while.
The boss likes to keep everything reasonably low key so I cant go into any specifics, ie whats the cabin like etc, so you will forgive me if I cant anwser all your questions. However if you hear me airborne in VP-BRM say hello to Bobby!!
Guest
Posts: n/a
I can't let this thread die! It's just TOO interesting!!!!!!!!!!
Quick question. Bobby, I noted your aircraft's registration/tail number. If it starts with "VP", does that denote a UK registration or does "G" do that? For some reason, I thought "VP" was French?
Appreciate any clarification!
Cheers
Quick question. Bobby, I noted your aircraft's registration/tail number. If it starts with "VP", does that denote a UK registration or does "G" do that? For some reason, I thought "VP" was French?
Appreciate any clarification!
Cheers
Guest
Posts: n/a
Bobby,
That aircraft appears to spend a lot of time in JED, is this your actual base?
The aircraft doesnt have winglets, how does the performance compare with the winglet equipped machines?
Are you using the Boeing Laptop tool for takeoff performance?
Lavdumper,
VP-B means that the aircraft is registered in the Carribean, Bermuda, i think.
Mutt
That aircraft appears to spend a lot of time in JED, is this your actual base?
The aircraft doesnt have winglets, how does the performance compare with the winglet equipped machines?
Are you using the Boeing Laptop tool for takeoff performance?
Lavdumper,
VP-B means that the aircraft is registered in the Carribean, Bermuda, i think.
Mutt
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VP-B = Bermuda
VP-C = Cayman Islands
"VP" is only French if it's got "RS" in front of it I think...!
Bobby, I'd still like to know (and I'm sure your boss wouldn't think this was giving too much away) how you found out about this job; no names or anything, just whether it was ever advertised anywhere or if you had contacts in the corporate field.
VP-C = Cayman Islands
"VP" is only French if it's got "RS" in front of it I think...!
Bobby, I'd still like to know (and I'm sure your boss wouldn't think this was giving too much away) how you found out about this job; no names or anything, just whether it was ever advertised anywhere or if you had contacts in the corporate field.