British Airways Future Pilot Programme.
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Hi Guys,
I was wondering if anybody on here is planning to reapply for this years intake? I was fortunate to make it through to the second stage at OAA last year. However, I attained very high marks in all areas of the compass assessment but mis-read the orientation component and so this let me down.
I'm planning to reapply this year but not too sure how to handle the application. Assuming that the questions will be the same (which of course they may not be), I was wondering if you would submit the same responses as one the previous application?. i.e. sections such as responsibilities, duties in past and current employment will be identical. Of course, I would be more than happy to submit an entirely new application if that would be advantageous but I was very happy with my responses and I could possibly use these and modify/add to them if required.
Any adivce would be much appreciated
I was wondering if anybody on here is planning to reapply for this years intake? I was fortunate to make it through to the second stage at OAA last year. However, I attained very high marks in all areas of the compass assessment but mis-read the orientation component and so this let me down.
I'm planning to reapply this year but not too sure how to handle the application. Assuming that the questions will be the same (which of course they may not be), I was wondering if you would submit the same responses as one the previous application?. i.e. sections such as responsibilities, duties in past and current employment will be identical. Of course, I would be more than happy to submit an entirely new application if that would be advantageous but I was very happy with my responses and I could possibly use these and modify/add to them if required.
Any adivce would be much appreciated
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For those of you have applied in the past; what kind of questions are asked within the application? Do we have to write a personal statement, for example?
Thanks in advance.
Thanks in advance.
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British Airways Future Pilot Programme.
Squird
I wouldn't use exactly the same answers. Show them how you have grown in the last year. That being said if you had an amazing example that is still the best you have, then no reason not to reuse but maybe edit slightly. If you got through to round 2 last year I'd be surprised if you didn't this year.
I wouldn't use exactly the same answers. Show them how you have grown in the last year. That being said if you had an amazing example that is still the best you have, then no reason not to reuse but maybe edit slightly. If you got through to round 2 last year I'd be surprised if you didn't this year.
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Jaair
Unfortunately I don't think that it would be fair for anybody to provide you with the questions on last years application prior to the application window opening... BA have strict rules that you shouldn't really discuss the specifics in detail as they want to ensure that the process is as fair as possible. However, I can say that they will probably ask for duties/responsibilities held in current and past employment and that there will be some essay based questions. Usually these will be related to aviation and your personal skills.
Straighten Up
Thanks for the info... that's what I was thinking. It's probably a good idea to add to the answers to show development, and possibly re-write some of the essay questions but I guess that ultimately the responses will be similar in a way. I just hope that I would get through the initial paper based application stage again... it would be strange and extremely disappointing if I didn't get past the first hurdle this time round. Are you planning on applying for this years intake? If so, which FTO are you considering?
Unfortunately I don't think that it would be fair for anybody to provide you with the questions on last years application prior to the application window opening... BA have strict rules that you shouldn't really discuss the specifics in detail as they want to ensure that the process is as fair as possible. However, I can say that they will probably ask for duties/responsibilities held in current and past employment and that there will be some essay based questions. Usually these will be related to aviation and your personal skills.
Straighten Up
Thanks for the info... that's what I was thinking. It's probably a good idea to add to the answers to show development, and possibly re-write some of the essay questions but I guess that ultimately the responses will be similar in a way. I just hope that I would get through the initial paper based application stage again... it would be strange and extremely disappointing if I didn't get past the first hurdle this time round. Are you planning on applying for this years intake? If so, which FTO are you considering?
Join Date: Oct 2013
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does anyone know if you have to pass the PILAPT tests to a really high standard and be better than a certain percentage of other applicants ? or is it just a matter of getting past the benchmark set by the FTO ?
Also for anyone with experience of them how hard/nerve wracking are they ?
Also for anyone with experience of them how hard/nerve wracking are they ?
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ben1
The pass mark for the PILAPT test is slightly higher during the BA FPP selection, but not by much. I think they will just select the best performing candidates since I couldn't see how they could it any other way.
The pass mark for the PILAPT test is slightly higher during the BA FPP selection, but not by much. I think they will just select the best performing candidates since I couldn't see how they could it any other way.
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Ben, I'd think that they're going to look at marks across the board (pilapt, maths, physics, verbal and numerical reasoning, group exercises and interview). There's probably no need for a quantifiable pass mark as they'll likely have a fixed number of places for final assessments (based on available slots over the allocated number of final assessment days). Realistically, everyone who gets to the final assessment will have performed very strongly in every individual area. It's then down to who can make themselves stand out from a very strong crowd.
This could vary depending on the chosen FTO/ATO; I think I'm right in saying that the CTC and OAA assessments were split over two days/sessions, whereas FTE was all done at the same sitting. Please correct me if I'm wrong, though!
The tests are tough, but actually enjoyable! You can prepare for almost all of it in advance. Doesn't make it less nerve wracking, but you're more likely to do yourself justice. It struck me that there were a high percentage of seemingly excellent candidates last year. So much of it must have come down to very marginal differences, certainly in the latter stages.
Many of those who didn't get to the final stage were offered places at the flight schools (self-sponsored) and a number who fell at either the final or penultimate hurdle then went on to land cadetships through other airlines (personally, I know of four). Possibly a good indication of the quality of many of those who were in the mix. Not that everyone would necessarily be able to finance the other options, but still.
This could vary depending on the chosen FTO/ATO; I think I'm right in saying that the CTC and OAA assessments were split over two days/sessions, whereas FTE was all done at the same sitting. Please correct me if I'm wrong, though!
The tests are tough, but actually enjoyable! You can prepare for almost all of it in advance. Doesn't make it less nerve wracking, but you're more likely to do yourself justice. It struck me that there were a high percentage of seemingly excellent candidates last year. So much of it must have come down to very marginal differences, certainly in the latter stages.
Many of those who didn't get to the final stage were offered places at the flight schools (self-sponsored) and a number who fell at either the final or penultimate hurdle then went on to land cadetships through other airlines (personally, I know of four). Possibly a good indication of the quality of many of those who were in the mix. Not that everyone would necessarily be able to finance the other options, but still.
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Thanks for your answers!
On a similar note I've seen people mention that they look for improving scores rather than consistently high ones does anyone know if this is the case ? I guess ill just give it my best shot (if I get to the second stage!!) but I would like to know if lots of practice could be shooting myself in the foot somewhat.
Also which FTOs are people choosing and why ?
Cheers!
On a similar note I've seen people mention that they look for improving scores rather than consistently high ones does anyone know if this is the case ? I guess ill just give it my best shot (if I get to the second stage!!) but I would like to know if lots of practice could be shooting myself in the foot somewhat.
Also which FTOs are people choosing and why ?
Cheers!
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I have to say I'm slightly worried that some posters are getting on peoples backs for their concerns over salary.
If successful you're going to be based in one of the most expensive areas of the UK to live in. Not so much a problem if you've still got your bedroom at Mum & Dads house to live in while you save. Surprisingly though, not everyone is from London & The SE.
While this is a decent deal for guys wanting in to the industry you surely can't forgot that this is a job you're applying for? A job that (lets face it) you're going to be in for a while. A job that has to pay for you down there and other aspects of life (travelling to see loved ones? Kids?). I'd be worried if people weren't making sure this job could be sustainable before applying.
Don't treat such behaviour as a 'lack of commitment towards flying'. Treat it as being realistic.
Good luck to all applying including quite a few of my chums.
If successful you're going to be based in one of the most expensive areas of the UK to live in. Not so much a problem if you've still got your bedroom at Mum & Dads house to live in while you save. Surprisingly though, not everyone is from London & The SE.
While this is a decent deal for guys wanting in to the industry you surely can't forgot that this is a job you're applying for? A job that (lets face it) you're going to be in for a while. A job that has to pay for you down there and other aspects of life (travelling to see loved ones? Kids?). I'd be worried if people weren't making sure this job could be sustainable before applying.
Don't treat such behaviour as a 'lack of commitment towards flying'. Treat it as being realistic.
Good luck to all applying including quite a few of my chums.
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Well GeorgEGNT the alternative is:
A - forgot about pursuing a career in aviation
B - pay for line training etc yourself
C - apply for a cadet scheme with a lower salary elsewhere.
I can't believe you'd actually be concerned about the salary (which is well above a living wage) given the state of the industry.
It's only for a few years and it's not that expensive to live outside of London.
Also employees who work within airports i.e. shops etc seem to get by just fine on much much lower wages - I know it's not the best comparison.
A - forgot about pursuing a career in aviation
B - pay for line training etc yourself
C - apply for a cadet scheme with a lower salary elsewhere.
I can't believe you'd actually be concerned about the salary (which is well above a living wage) given the state of the industry.
It's only for a few years and it's not that expensive to live outside of London.
Also employees who work within airports i.e. shops etc seem to get by just fine on much much lower wages - I know it's not the best comparison.
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I agree with irishoperator.
Whether or not the salary is good/bad/indifferent in comparison to the going rate in the South East, or vs what you can earn as flexicrew or even vs a regular graduate scheme is somewhat missing the point in my opinion.
The fact is that BA will guarantee your loan, repay the entire bond over 7 years including your type rating and offer you a permanent contract at the national airline.
Compare this to funding your own training with CTC/OAA/FTE, probably having to find even more for a type rating if you're lucky enough to be offered employment via flexicrew or something similar and STILL not being certain of permanent employment, and it becomes apparent that this is by far and away the best cadet scheme out there.
I of course understand that people will need to figure out the numbers etc when they are employed i.e. rent/mortgage, bills, food etc but the worst case will see you with a couple of years of 'pain' before security
Whether or not the salary is good/bad/indifferent in comparison to the going rate in the South East, or vs what you can earn as flexicrew or even vs a regular graduate scheme is somewhat missing the point in my opinion.
The fact is that BA will guarantee your loan, repay the entire bond over 7 years including your type rating and offer you a permanent contract at the national airline.
Compare this to funding your own training with CTC/OAA/FTE, probably having to find even more for a type rating if you're lucky enough to be offered employment via flexicrew or something similar and STILL not being certain of permanent employment, and it becomes apparent that this is by far and away the best cadet scheme out there.
I of course understand that people will need to figure out the numbers etc when they are employed i.e. rent/mortgage, bills, food etc but the worst case will see you with a couple of years of 'pain' before security
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For those of you who are concerned about the living costs in the South East there is some good news.
Firstly there are a lot of good house schemes advertised on the BA company notice board in the CRC in T5. These are like minded people sharing the cost of living in the South East.
Secondly, with the M25, M3 and M4 all within 5 minutes reach of T5, even on SH, there is opportunity to live outside of the SE sphere of expense and commute to work. BA 'recommend' you live within 2 hours but you don't have to if you don't mind the drive.
Also lots of FO's on T'Bus commute from abroad. It's all possible.
Anyhoo, you'll be away on your 5/6 day block trips so don't be too concerned, the hotels are nice (even if you only stay in them for 10-12 hours!!!
).
Firstly there are a lot of good house schemes advertised on the BA company notice board in the CRC in T5. These are like minded people sharing the cost of living in the South East.
Secondly, with the M25, M3 and M4 all within 5 minutes reach of T5, even on SH, there is opportunity to live outside of the SE sphere of expense and commute to work. BA 'recommend' you live within 2 hours but you don't have to if you don't mind the drive.
Also lots of FO's on T'Bus commute from abroad. It's all possible.
Anyhoo, you'll be away on your 5/6 day block trips so don't be too concerned, the hotels are nice (even if you only stay in them for 10-12 hours!!!
).
Last edited by Wirbelsturm; 3rd Nov 2013 at 16:58.
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Fair point guys.
I still don't see what the problem is about considering the wage you're going to be on before applying.
I hadn't considered the house share etc.
I'm not denying the fact that its a good deal. I was more interested in peoples reactions to other posters considering their financial security before applying rather than the figure itself.
Problem is I've heard a very low figure and I've heard a very reasonable figure. Both would result in very different quality of life for the person.
I still don't see what the problem is about considering the wage you're going to be on before applying.
I hadn't considered the house share etc.
I'm not denying the fact that its a good deal. I was more interested in peoples reactions to other posters considering their financial security before applying rather than the figure itself.
Problem is I've heard a very low figure and I've heard a very reasonable figure. Both would result in very different quality of life for the person.
Last edited by GeorgEGNT; 3rd Nov 2013 at 17:15.
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My point isn't regarding the figure itself. The salaries I have heard are listed on this thread.
My point is that there isn't a reliable figure listed so it's difficult to see how much you could end up living off upon completion of training.
Just to reiterate, I am not complaining about the salary itself. I am complaining about people being so surprised that posters are considering the salary before applying.
My point is that there isn't a reliable figure listed so it's difficult to see how much you could end up living off upon completion of training.
Just to reiterate, I am not complaining about the salary itself. I am complaining about people being so surprised that posters are considering the salary before applying.
Last edited by GeorgEGNT; 7th Mar 2015 at 10:02.
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Hi All,
I can see quite a passionate discussion about salary already!
I had just a quick question regarding FTO selection (I am specifically interested in CTC)
When are they likely to commence second round selection? I.e. selection centre with numeracy tests etc.
I can see quite a passionate discussion about salary already!
I had just a quick question regarding FTO selection (I am specifically interested in CTC)
When are they likely to commence second round selection? I.e. selection centre with numeracy tests etc.
Last edited by Captain_Bolt; 3rd Nov 2013 at 20:32.
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British Airways Future Pilot Programme.
Squird
For a couple of reasons I won't be applying this year. I went with OAA last year and thought the set up there was good. I also went to the CTC presentation but NZ for 9 months wasn't for me. I would probably go with the same again if I was applying purely from the point of feeling a tiny bit more comfortable with the set up on the assessment days.
Best of luck.
For a couple of reasons I won't be applying this year. I went with OAA last year and thought the set up there was good. I also went to the CTC presentation but NZ for 9 months wasn't for me. I would probably go with the same again if I was applying purely from the point of feeling a tiny bit more comfortable with the set up on the assessment days.
Best of luck.
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Hi all,
A few questions to which I couldn't find an answer (still deciding on FTO):
1) The BA FAQs state that no tattoos should be visible and specifically notes tattoos on necks and forearms. I have a tattoo on my forearm which is not visible with long sleeve shirts - would this be an issue? I can stretch without the shirt sleeve riding up so it remains non-visible.
2) Are there any issues in not living in the provided accommodation. The only real way I can do this is by moving house to be closer to the FTO which will reduce the mortgage and free up equity.
3) Has anybody taken family with them to Arizona/New Zealand/Jerez? Can anyone foresee issues with this. I would envisage renting the house in the UK to fund accommodation overseas.
A few questions to which I couldn't find an answer (still deciding on FTO):
1) The BA FAQs state that no tattoos should be visible and specifically notes tattoos on necks and forearms. I have a tattoo on my forearm which is not visible with long sleeve shirts - would this be an issue? I can stretch without the shirt sleeve riding up so it remains non-visible.
2) Are there any issues in not living in the provided accommodation. The only real way I can do this is by moving house to be closer to the FTO which will reduce the mortgage and free up equity.
3) Has anybody taken family with them to Arizona/New Zealand/Jerez? Can anyone foresee issues with this. I would envisage renting the house in the UK to fund accommodation overseas.