Highland Airways Sponsorship Scheme open!
Join Date: Mar 1999
Location: Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
Posts: 1,691
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes
on
1 Post
CSN I wouldn't even open that can of worms if I was you. Cockpit drones like ourselves are unlikely ever to know the full story of whatever the boardroom shenanigans were that went on a few weeks ago. Besides, me and silverknapper are the two most well connected gossips in Highland and we'd know before anyone else 
What is undoubtedly true though, is
1) that Alan is now back in charge, and everyone is very happy about the fact, and
2) that undoubtedly the single greatest reason for the company's continued survival and success over the last couple of decades, has been his steady steering of the ship and the huge loyalty and respect he engenders from all his staff. Like all companies it has its share of personality clashes, but everyone looks to Alan for leadership and he delivers. AND he's a fantastically good pilot and instructor, who mucks into the hard physical work as well. There aren't that many airlines where you can say that about the management pilots.
Whoever gets the sponsorship this time - just like last time - is getting themselves into a great job with a great little company, who are undoubtedly going to work you like a dog for a number of years and get every penny of their money's worth out of the investment they make in you, as is their right. The payback for you guys is that the experience you'll gain in your flying career with Highland, is stuff that just can't be bought elsewhere for any money.
I have to echo silverknapper in dissuading people who don't meet the minimum requirements from applying, because you are wasting your own and the management's time and will only get yourself ignored from future intakes. Getting a PPL really isn't that much to ask, what it really shows that you at least have the initiative to take the first tiny little step down the very long and arduous road of pilot qualification. Or in other words, it cuts out most of the daydreamers from the half-serious ones. As such I'm sure they'll be sticking to those minimums.
Best of luck everyone.
What is undoubtedly true though, is
1) that Alan is now back in charge, and everyone is very happy about the fact, and
2) that undoubtedly the single greatest reason for the company's continued survival and success over the last couple of decades, has been his steady steering of the ship and the huge loyalty and respect he engenders from all his staff. Like all companies it has its share of personality clashes, but everyone looks to Alan for leadership and he delivers. AND he's a fantastically good pilot and instructor, who mucks into the hard physical work as well. There aren't that many airlines where you can say that about the management pilots.
Whoever gets the sponsorship this time - just like last time - is getting themselves into a great job with a great little company, who are undoubtedly going to work you like a dog for a number of years and get every penny of their money's worth out of the investment they make in you, as is their right. The payback for you guys is that the experience you'll gain in your flying career with Highland, is stuff that just can't be bought elsewhere for any money.
I have to echo silverknapper in dissuading people who don't meet the minimum requirements from applying, because you are wasting your own and the management's time and will only get yourself ignored from future intakes. Getting a PPL really isn't that much to ask, what it really shows that you at least have the initiative to take the first tiny little step down the very long and arduous road of pilot qualification. Or in other words, it cuts out most of the daydreamers from the half-serious ones. As such I'm sure they'll be sticking to those minimums.
Best of luck everyone.
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: BFS
Posts: 1,177
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Well put Luke, couldn't agree more.
CSN you clearly have no idea what you're talking about.
You sound as though you are criticising Highland for a bit of forward planning. Everyone moans that the industry isn't proactive enough in it's forward planning. Now that one is you are criticising it.
Highland do offer excellent Ts & Cs and everyone there is exceptionally happy. Your so called experience obviously doesn't stretch to airlines where people do move on in order to further their careers on bigger stuff. There are a few notable and honourable exceptions who enjoy the regional TP lifestyle too much to leave. But then I get the impression you would moan if no one moved on from a TP outfit thus creating fluidity in the job market.
CSN you clearly have no idea what you're talking about.
but in an industry where we are always told an airline might decide on Friday that it needs 10 pilots on Monday I cannot see how a 2 year plan fits in
I know from experince in large companies it does not take 2 years to do this, you offer a good working environment and adequate rewards and people soon fit in to the corporate ideals. If you offer this environment people tend to want to stay, rather than 'punishing them' to the tune of thousands of pounds for daring to leave.
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Daan Saaff
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by silverknapper
CSN you clearly have no idea what you're talking about.
You sound as though you are criticising Highland for a bit of forward planning. Everyone moans that the industry isn't proactive enough in it's forward planning. Now that one is you are criticising it.
Highland do offer excellent Ts & Cs and everyone there is exceptionally happy. Your so called experience obviously doesn't stretch to airlines where people do move on in order to further their careers on bigger stuff. There are a few notable and honourable exceptions who enjoy the regional TP lifestyle too much to leave. But then I get the impression you would moan if no one moved on from a TP outfit thus creating fluidity in the job market.
You sound as though you are criticising Highland for a bit of forward planning. Everyone moans that the industry isn't proactive enough in it's forward planning. Now that one is you are criticising it.
Highland do offer excellent Ts & Cs and everyone there is exceptionally happy. Your so called experience obviously doesn't stretch to airlines where people do move on in order to further their careers on bigger stuff. There are a few notable and honourable exceptions who enjoy the regional TP lifestyle too much to leave. But then I get the impression you would moan if no one moved on from a TP outfit thus creating fluidity in the job market.
Silver, late night last night was it??
I think you will find that it was 11g that posted the above quotes and not me.
And just for the record, I have every idea about what Im talking about!!
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: herts
Posts: 31
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by silverknapper
You sound as though you are criticising Highland for a bit of forward planning. Everyone moans that the industry isn't proactive enough in it's forward planning. Now that one is you are criticising it.
Highland do offer excellent Ts & Cs and everyone there is exceptionally happy.
Highland do offer excellent Ts & Cs and everyone there is exceptionally happy.
As for excellent T's and C's If you think a £75K bond is a good contract term then I can only suggest you have been well and truly 'moulded'.
As for knowledge of the airline industry, you are right, my experience was within another sector of industry, but just because the airlines are the odd one out does not make it correct!
If people do move onwards that is fine, there is no need to try and beat them with a £75K stick - there's plenty of competent people willing to take their place. I could give you the economic argument as to why they don't need to bond to this extent, but I think you would probably (a) be very bored, (b) disagree!
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: UK, mainly
Age: 39
Posts: 423
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
11g: true, the Atlantic/Highland profile wouldn't necessarily work for the vast majority of airlines, but it works extremely well for both Atlantic and Highland - partly because they know exactly what they're getting from the beginning, so (for example purely, I don't by any means know every individual case!) they do not need command assessments since ex-fuglies have already done several years "assessment" coping with varied conditions and treatment. AFAIConcerned, the fugly scheme is the best around for those of us who think there's more to aviation than big passenger jets. Even for those who are focused on jet time, it still produces a very good training experience and can't hurt at interviews later on. And no, I have no connection with them at all - didn't get on the fugly scheme thanks to messing up the sim test, so have no requirement to be nice about them (or about a certain Shed crew, but that's another story...).
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: between the books
Posts: 173
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I think, knowing the probability of wannabes getting a "free" CPL/IR is quite rare, this Highland Airways scheme is good news for those holding a PPL(A).
I have a PPL(A) but I don't have a driving licence yet and neither a Class One Medical... but I'm still going t apply (when I receive a reply from the HR mngr)
However, after reading the forums... are you saying that after taking this scheme, the chances of progressing to big jets is much less than if you just go, say to FTE or OAT and do the CPL/IR yourself?
Another question, is this scheme for UK/EI residents only?
Thanks!
I have a PPL(A) but I don't have a driving licence yet and neither a Class One Medical... but I'm still going t apply (when I receive a reply from the HR mngr)
However, after reading the forums... are you saying that after taking this scheme, the chances of progressing to big jets is much less than if you just go, say to FTE or OAT and do the CPL/IR yourself?
Another question, is this scheme for UK/EI residents only?
Thanks!
Last edited by PPL152; 26th Jul 2006 at 08:40.
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: herts
Posts: 31
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by PPL152
I think, knowing the probability of wannabes getting a "free" CPL/IR is quite rare, this Highland Airways scheme is good news for those holding a PPL(A).
However, after reading the forums... are you saying that after taking this scheme, the chances of progressing to big jets is much less than if you just go, say to FTE or OAT and do the CPL/IR yourself?
Another question, is this scheme for UK/EI residents only?
Thanks!
However, after reading the forums... are you saying that after taking this scheme, the chances of progressing to big jets is much less than if you just go, say to FTE or OAT and do the CPL/IR yourself?
Another question, is this scheme for UK/EI residents only?
Thanks!
The website says that you need the right to live and work in the EU. I assume this means you must have European Citizenship, or be able to obtain the right, but I'll let the airline's HR confirm that (good luck getting an answer from an airline HR dept).
Join Date: Mar 1999
Location: Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
Posts: 1,691
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes
on
1 Post
Well first of all at the risk of stating the bleedin obvious, should you get called for initial interview DON'T be too keen to point out the fact that your long term aspirations lie with BA as opposed to spending your life in the Highlands. Yes you know it and they know you know it, but they don't appreciate being told it to their faces if you get my drift!
Just to set your mind at rest, Highland pilots have no trouble moving on when the time comes, mainly because once you've spent several winters with the company and operating in that rather harsh Hebridean environment, then you can't help but know your basic sh!t when it comes to flying. The chief pilot of Highland, Linton Chilcott, and the woman in charge of training standards for the Atlantic group as a whole, Kath Burnham, are two of the most formidable and highly talented pilots you could ever hope to meet, who in my mind leave no stone unturned when it comes to training standards. In my case, I am the most recent leaver from Highland just a few weeks ago, (since pretty much the whole company knows who I am anyway, I don't mind admitting it)! I spent a couple of years in the left seat of the Jetstream before I decided it was time to check out the job market earlier this year, and within a couple of weeks of sending out some CVs I got called for interview pretty much simultaneously with Cathay Pacific, Easyjet, Air China, Air Mauritius, Netjets, and a direct entry command on a privately operated Citation Excel. That's not a bad haul by anyone's standards if you're worried about employability. And no I'm not going to tell you which job I took!
However it's really the least thing that a PPL holder should be worrying about. If you end up getting the sponsorship then you are one of the luckiest human beings on earth, and what you should be focusing on is doing a good job, getting those hours, progressing through the ranks at Highland and enjoying every minute of your time first and foremost. I love Inverness and the lifestyle around that area, it's the UK's last great undiscovered secret for sure, I am going to miss it greatly.
Just to set your mind at rest, Highland pilots have no trouble moving on when the time comes, mainly because once you've spent several winters with the company and operating in that rather harsh Hebridean environment, then you can't help but know your basic sh!t when it comes to flying. The chief pilot of Highland, Linton Chilcott, and the woman in charge of training standards for the Atlantic group as a whole, Kath Burnham, are two of the most formidable and highly talented pilots you could ever hope to meet, who in my mind leave no stone unturned when it comes to training standards. In my case, I am the most recent leaver from Highland just a few weeks ago, (since pretty much the whole company knows who I am anyway, I don't mind admitting it)! I spent a couple of years in the left seat of the Jetstream before I decided it was time to check out the job market earlier this year, and within a couple of weeks of sending out some CVs I got called for interview pretty much simultaneously with Cathay Pacific, Easyjet, Air China, Air Mauritius, Netjets, and a direct entry command on a privately operated Citation Excel. That's not a bad haul by anyone's standards if you're worried about employability. And no I'm not going to tell you which job I took!
However it's really the least thing that a PPL holder should be worrying about. If you end up getting the sponsorship then you are one of the luckiest human beings on earth, and what you should be focusing on is doing a good job, getting those hours, progressing through the ranks at Highland and enjoying every minute of your time first and foremost. I love Inverness and the lifestyle around that area, it's the UK's last great undiscovered secret for sure, I am going to miss it greatly.
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: patagonia
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by captainflash
I have flown in the area for a bit and know that it can be both challenging and amazing.
(provided your blood sweat and tears don't cost you!)
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: BFS
Posts: 1,177
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Can only agree whole heartedly with Luke. Highland pilots have all moved on to pretty damn good jobs and with great success. I was talking to someone last week about some advanced handling course somewhere which they have to pass to get their job in a jet. They were worried about having to hand fly a few raw data procedures. Given that's what Highland do on a daily basis you can see why their drivers have no problem moving on. Add the fact that we get a lot of positioning sectors which with the trainers can be turned into practice engine failures etc and you get one well rounded individual.
11g
You seem to have a bee in your bonnet about this. I'm curious to know what you think is a suitable bond for the following:
Accomodation whilst training plus £300/month training allowance.
100 hours SEP hour building
ATPL Groundschool
Night rating
IMC rating
Multi rating
CPL
Instrument rating
F406 Type rating
J31/32 Type rating
ATR42/72 Type rating
Command training as required.
I personally can't be bothered adding it up - it's a cracking day in INV and the beach is calling. Also once on line one of the best salaries in the sector. Companies can't give this away for free. The very nature of this business is that most people want to move up to something shinier and bigger. If the lucky person does this within 5 years of being on line he/she will pay a proportion of the massive amount Highland invested in them. What's wrong with that?
152 If you don't have a licence by interview then don't bother mate. Fuglies do a bit of driving about. The next guy will have one so why take the chance? You may fail and where does that leave you?
11g
As for excellent T's and C's If you think a £75K bond is a good contract term then I can only suggest you have been well and truly 'moulded'
Accomodation whilst training plus £300/month training allowance.
100 hours SEP hour building
ATPL Groundschool
Night rating
IMC rating
Multi rating
CPL
Instrument rating
F406 Type rating
J31/32 Type rating
ATR42/72 Type rating
Command training as required.
I personally can't be bothered adding it up - it's a cracking day in INV and the beach is calling. Also once on line one of the best salaries in the sector. Companies can't give this away for free. The very nature of this business is that most people want to move up to something shinier and bigger. If the lucky person does this within 5 years of being on line he/she will pay a proportion of the massive amount Highland invested in them. What's wrong with that?
152 If you don't have a licence by interview then don't bother mate. Fuglies do a bit of driving about. The next guy will have one so why take the chance? You may fail and where does that leave you?
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: brisbane
Age: 64
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hi Silverknapper,
would be interesting to see the figures but perhaps not too transparent to achieve in detail.
I reckon accom, food, allowance and all the training to boot would be around 50 to 60 thousand so 75 perhaps a bit steep, however i am guessing.
A great opportunity for a fresh PPL to get a guaranteed job, some fantastic experience and living in that part of the world would take a bit of beating.
Get applying folks and enjoy the experience if lucky enough to be accepted.
would be interesting to see the figures but perhaps not too transparent to achieve in detail.
I reckon accom, food, allowance and all the training to boot would be around 50 to 60 thousand so 75 perhaps a bit steep, however i am guessing.
A great opportunity for a fresh PPL to get a guaranteed job, some fantastic experience and living in that part of the world would take a bit of beating.
Get applying folks and enjoy the experience if lucky enough to be accepted.
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: between the books
Posts: 173
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by silverknapper
152 If you don't have a licence by interview then don't bother mate. Fuglies do a bit of driving about. The next guy will have one so why take the chance? You may fail and where does that leave you?
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: patagonia
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by PPL152
What do you mean?
PPL152,
Is there really no way of you getting your driving licence quicker? It's not like it’s a very difficult thing to obtain. The closing date is the 21st August so I’m sure you could pass your test by then. Otherwise, you'll have to wait until next time. The requirements are written as equals and so you will have to assume that each requirement is as essential as the next.
Alby Mangel
I have seen the contract and it lists all the costs of the cadets training with a price next to each course, with a sum total at the bottom of the page. It includes more courses than silvernapper explains; FI rating is one I can think of off the top of my head. From where I was standing it is certainly a big number but a fair contract.
Finally, I'd much rather a 75K bond and being paid with a guaranteed job flying a public transport type around some very demanding areas, Than owing the bank manager up to a similar amount (I have friends who are on integrated courses, owing that to the bank!) with no job! But hey! Maybe it’s a sellers market. I'll let you take that risk.
Just read your post ppl152, good on yer,best of luck.
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Sussex, UK
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Greetings All,
A bit off topic (well, I'm not going to join the 'Is it a good scheme or not?' debate!...)
Just wondered if anyone who has previously been for the Highland selection day/days could shed some light on what to expect if we're lucky enough to be invited!
One more thing, there is no mention of acedemic qualiications on the 'Requirements' list... Does that mean that people with A-Levels other that Maths and Physics stand a good chance of getting selected?
Thanks for your help!
Jake
A bit off topic (well, I'm not going to join the 'Is it a good scheme or not?' debate!...)
Just wondered if anyone who has previously been for the Highland selection day/days could shed some light on what to expect if we're lucky enough to be invited!
One more thing, there is no mention of acedemic qualiications on the 'Requirements' list... Does that mean that people with A-Levels other that Maths and Physics stand a good chance of getting selected?
Thanks for your help!
Jake