How do you go from flying small prop planes to flying a 777?

[Jono B]

Hi.
I'm new to this forum and I wasn't able to find anything else on this, so forgive me if this has already been posted before.
I want to become a pilot, and I am not sure how you go from flying charter planes etc. to flying in the regionals? How do you get turbine/jet time without paying for it?

[redsnail]

Jono, As you're in South Africa, have a look at the African forum.

I am not quite sure the paths open to you in South Africa, but it's not outside the realm to go from bush flying to twins to flying turbines and then go to the airlines. You just keep gaining experience appropriate for the next job.
Do some research on what you normally need for the jobs, eg if SAA need (for eg) 3,000 hours with 1,000 hours on turbines, then plan your moves.

See what the regionals want and work your way to a job you can get with the minimum experience.

[stevop21]

The pilot market in South Africa is very different to Europe. (My family is South African even though I live in the UK) I am also 16 and hope to fly in SAA some day!

As far as I see it the pilot market in South Africa only moves when SAA hire. As redsnail said it will be more useful in the African Aviation forum. Here is Europe it is not uncommon for guys fresh out of flight school to go and fly a jet. In Africa this simply does not exist, you must build experience. The only exception I can think of is when the SAA cadet scheme was running.

It may be worth checking out the SAX cadet programme but I guess they will only be looking for a 'certain type of applicant'...

Many people instruct, bush fly to build experience then may be taken on by Airlink or SAX for example. Then hope to move onto SAA, Emirates, comair or whatever. Many of the schools are very helpful and will happily chat to you via phone or even better go and visit. 43rd, SAFTA, flight training George etc...

Good luck and hope to see you on the SAA flightdeck one day!!

[eagleflier]

Here is Europe it is not uncommon for guys fresh out of flight school to go and fly a jet. In Africa this simply does not exist, you must build experience. The only exception I can think of is when the SAA cadet scheme was running.

The above statement is not entirely true. I know at least 30 Nigerians (me inclusive) who fly 737s today that came in straight from flight school. Nigerian Airlines hire locals and a few lucky expats straight from flight school. There are also 2 Serbians on the 737 in a Nigerian airline that came in straight from flight school.

Its entirely different in SA though, i got my CPL there and i know the drill. Gotta move up the ladder slowly.

It is not uncommon in West Africa to go straight to jets.

[stevop21]

eagleflier

Wow, I didn't know that was possible! I should have been a bit clearer and said in South Africa