RAAF Flight Screening Programme
Join Date: May 2009
Location: East Sale
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Our group were lucky enough to have the Tamworth Country Music Festival in full swing during our allotted course. In fact, heading in to town on the Friday was encouraged by the staff!
I can't say I'm a massive fan of country music, but the group did bond. The togetherness of our course was noticed by the instructors and OSB, and I attribute that to the time spent away from the base as much as in it.
I agree spacemantan, there was only so much chair flying my brain could take in one day! Very tiring stuff... I believe it was just as important to increase the group dynamic, as it was to sit in your room by yourself for hours on end (a mixture of the two is needed 
).
I can't say I'm a massive fan of country music, but the group did bond. The togetherness of our course was noticed by the instructors and OSB, and I attribute that to the time spent away from the base as much as in it.
How much study can one candidate do whilst on Flight Screening? Once you know everything, you know everything... Once you're prepped for the OSB, you're prepped for the OSB... Apart from chair flying there isn't much else you can do.
).
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Sydney, Australia
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FSP
I've just been invited to Flight Screening and will be attending the final program before the easter break - 26th March. Will anybody else be attending this program? Byron
Join Date: Mar 2009
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Lesnak, don't forget J.P from ADFA afterburn as well 
I do agree that going out and getting smashed is a bad idea, however the course Lesnak and I were on relished the opportunity to chat with some tremendously experienced aviators from WWII up until present. That said every weekend is not the 60th annual flyers reunion!
I felt that doing something with the FSP and BFTS course people on that middle weekend didn't hinder me or my course mates at all, however, none of us drunk all that much and we were back well before mid-night. We all came back feeling like we knew each other a bit better seeing people outside of the FSP environment, and really built on our already positive group dynamic which much like BlackBird, was commented on during our board activities.
Sitting by the pool in the late afternoon light discussing the past weeks flying while Squadron Leader Tony Blair put on an aerobatic display wasn't half bad either.
I don't want to give the wrong impression though. Work hard, the course certainly demands it! Take a few hours over the space of the fortnight to console your thoughts and rest your mind would be my advice.
I do agree that going out and getting smashed is a bad idea, however the course Lesnak and I were on relished the opportunity to chat with some tremendously experienced aviators from WWII up until present. That said every weekend is not the 60th annual flyers reunion!
I felt that doing something with the FSP and BFTS course people on that middle weekend didn't hinder me or my course mates at all, however, none of us drunk all that much and we were back well before mid-night. We all came back feeling like we knew each other a bit better seeing people outside of the FSP environment, and really built on our already positive group dynamic which much like BlackBird, was commented on during our board activities.
Sitting by the pool in the late afternoon light discussing the past weeks flying while Squadron Leader Tony Blair put on an aerobatic display wasn't half bad either.
I don't want to give the wrong impression though. Work hard, the course certainly demands it! Take a few hours over the space of the fortnight to console your thoughts and rest your mind would be my advice.
Last edited by NicKM91; 3rd Mar 2011 at 02:08.
Join Date: Oct 2010
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Hey just a quick question to those of you who have recived invitations to the FSP... What's the usual time frame between when you receive your invitation, and when you start FSP?
Replies much appreciated!
Oh, and a few posts back about the chook conversion, I've read a couple of times it's done at US Army base Fort Rucker, in Alabama. But that might have been outdated!??
Replies much appreciated!
Oh, and a few posts back about the chook conversion, I've read a couple of times it's done at US Army base Fort Rucker, in Alabama. But that might have been outdated!??
Join Date: Jul 2010
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TR, seems to be between 2 and 4 weeks given what people have posted up here in the last few years.
Brilliant nato, I'm heading up from Adelaide as well so might run into you before we get there...
Brilliant nato, I'm heading up from Adelaide as well so might run into you before we get there...
Join Date: Mar 2011
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hey guys,
I have a quick question regarding Assessment Day for pilot Direct Entry.
One thing I think will be asked is "do I understand the role of an Pilot Officer in the RAAF?"
I've been doing a lot of research and am struggling to find a straight answer. I know there would be administrative work and such, but is there a definition of the role?
Thank a lot!
I have a quick question regarding Assessment Day for pilot Direct Entry.
One thing I think will be asked is "do I understand the role of an Pilot Officer in the RAAF?"
I've been doing a lot of research and am struggling to find a straight answer. I know there would be administrative work and such, but is there a definition of the role?
Thank a lot!
Join Date: Mar 2006
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Gezzil,
Ring your local base and arrange an interview with a pilot... When I joined, we were asked to do this by DFR before Assessment Day. Prepare as many questions as you can!
I am not sure if this is still required, but you will at least appear motivated. It will beat any information you can get on this forum, hands down.
Good Luck,
B
Ring your local base and arrange an interview with a pilot... When I joined, we were asked to do this by DFR before Assessment Day. Prepare as many questions as you can!
I am not sure if this is still required, but you will at least appear motivated. It will beat any information you can get on this forum, hands down.
Good Luck,
B
Join Date: Mar 2011
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I am going down the same patha s most of you but I have only begun.
I have completed the basic applitutde test as well as the basic maths at the start of this month. The same day I also complete the maths entry exam for ADFA.
In a few weeks from now I need to return the DFR to complete the next test as a part of the recruiting process.
I'd imagine that there would be more maths and physics involved in this test aswel as spacial awareness and even some basic intrument reading.
Is that pretty much it or are there also some more areas i should be looking into before my date with the DFR?
Cheers, Pete
I have completed the basic applitutde test as well as the basic maths at the start of this month. The same day I also complete the maths entry exam for ADFA.
In a few weeks from now I need to return the DFR to complete the next test as a part of the recruiting process.
I'd imagine that there would be more maths and physics involved in this test aswel as spacial awareness and even some basic intrument reading.
Is that pretty much it or are there also some more areas i should be looking into before my date with the DFR?
Cheers, Pete
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Melbourne
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Ive never considered ADFA, but simply out of curiosity, who is the ADFA targeted at? As in, does it cater specifically to those that have just completed schooling or do older people with prior qualifications take up these courses as well? And is a spot guaranteed upon qualification for the position applied for, such as a Pilot posting subsequent to graduating from an aviation degree?
PM's welcome. I am simply curious, as I already possess an undergraduate degree and have other financial commitments but if its a viable option I would like to have it as a contingency for the future.
Cheers
Sep
PM's welcome. I am simply curious, as I already possess an undergraduate degree and have other financial commitments but if its a viable option I would like to have it as a contingency for the future.
Cheers
Sep
Join Date: Mar 2011
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just a quick question for the guys who have already been to flight screening. wat did u wear on your flight to tamworth? should i be expected to arrive in a suit or what?
Join Date: Jul 2010
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raiderboy and nato.wp, check your PMs.
I'm guessing neat casual (i.e. shirt and slacks/dress jeans) is probably ok but I guess it's better to be overdressed than underdressed - I'd be interested to hear what others have to say as well.
I'm guessing neat casual (i.e. shirt and slacks/dress jeans) is probably ok but I guess it's better to be overdressed than underdressed - I'd be interested to hear what others have to say as well.
Join Date: Mar 2011
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I'd like to know whether this upcoming (12th-26th) FSP is considered to be in the Winter or Summer months 
I definitely don't have anything resembling thermal underwear, or flying gloves...hope it won't be too cold.
Also would be nice to see which schedule applies.
*Edit: BOM says shower or two, 17-31'C for Sat, and similar all week. I'll put that in the summer box.
Also, any prior candidates, what, if any physical training opportunities are there? The gym is off-limits, and by my understanding the IFT is at the end of the fortnight, so are we expected to just atrophy for the period prior a physical test, or...?
I definitely don't have anything resembling thermal underwear, or flying gloves...hope it won't be too cold.
Also would be nice to see which schedule applies.
*Edit: BOM says shower or two, 17-31'C for Sat, and similar all week. I'll put that in the summer box.
Also, any prior candidates, what, if any physical training opportunities are there? The gym is off-limits, and by my understanding the IFT is at the end of the fortnight, so are we expected to just atrophy for the period prior a physical test, or...?
Join Date: May 2005
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@ nato.wp
You're kidding aren't you ? You hope it won't be too cold !?
Are you 'Gen-Y' by chance !?
Have you considered what might happen if you actually do get selected for training as a PLT in the ADF ? Here's a tip: no matter what your position (Category/Mustering) - there's an expectation that crews and equipment will operate and deploy (for sustained periods) under wide ranging temperatures and weather conditions. Yes, that means you may get cold (and wet) and you will have to sort your own clothing needs, appropriate to the predicted climate ... all this by yourself !!
If your intention is to join RAAF, then I hope you enjoy Exercises' Labuan and Tarakan whilst at OTS. Especially during the less warmer months in Sale !!
If you're accepted for Army SSO, then it won't be so bad.
If you don't have anything resembling "thermal underwear" - maybe go and buy some ! Better still: use your initiative (and on-line resources) & perhaps consider checking out the long range weather forecasts for YSTW on the internet - that may give you idea if it's going to be cold or not !!?
Here's another tip: you're being assessed at FSP for 'Commissioning Potential' as well as an ability to learn at a certain rate in the air environment. The rest is up to you.
Good luck.
I definitely don't have anything resembling thermal underwear, or flying gloves...hope it won't be too cold.
Are you 'Gen-Y' by chance !?
Have you considered what might happen if you actually do get selected for training as a PLT in the ADF ? Here's a tip: no matter what your position (Category/Mustering) - there's an expectation that crews and equipment will operate and deploy (for sustained periods) under wide ranging temperatures and weather conditions. Yes, that means you may get cold (and wet) and you will have to sort your own clothing needs, appropriate to the predicted climate ... all this by yourself !!
If your intention is to join RAAF, then I hope you enjoy Exercises' Labuan and Tarakan whilst at OTS. Especially during the less warmer months in Sale !!
If you're accepted for Army SSO, then it won't be so bad.
If you don't have anything resembling "thermal underwear" - maybe go and buy some ! Better still: use your initiative (and on-line resources) & perhaps consider checking out the long range weather forecasts for YSTW on the internet - that may give you idea if it's going to be cold or not !!?
Here's another tip: you're being assessed at FSP for 'Commissioning Potential' as well as an ability to learn at a certain rate in the air environment. The rest is up to you.
Good luck.
Last edited by Aussie_Aviator; 8th Mar 2011 at 15:18. Reason: Non-formatting of paragraphs, as originally typed.
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@ Aussie_Aviator
All due respect, but I believe nato.wp is showing some form of Initiative by asking the question on here. Surely he isn't a local from Tamworth and isn't aware of its Climate this time of year. I think its a fair question and it shows he's obviously thought about it and hasn't been able to come up with an answer. RE Tarakan and Labuan... I believe the RAAF issue you with thermals, so if it is your choice to wear them whilst digging pits in the middle of the night then so be it.
@ nato.wp, raiderboy etc etc
Tamworth can be hot this time of year however it is beginning to cool down somewhat (weather gods will make a liar of me however). So ultimately I suggest a mix of clothing but leaning more towards the summer style. With that in mind, arrive in Tamworth wearing neat casual attire (collared shirt and slacks), and you won't find yourself over or under dressed. Whilst on FSP, I suggest you wear nothing less than collar and tie (suit would go well here).
With respect to gloves and thermals etc etc... Not necessary unless they are stipulated in any instructions you recieve. If you havn't recieved any don't hesitate to contact the staff there and ask for a copy (if they still exist) or get them to answer your questions. Either way I don't think you'll find it too cold in the aircraft and the flying suits provided should be sufficient. I also don't recall doing the IFT there (was done back with DFR) but in terms of fitness opportunities... Theres always a couple of laps to the civilian terminal, and/or pushups/situps in your room. If you are at a reasonable level of fitness now then 2 weeks of limited exercise will not hurt you. If not... get cracking because if you're expected to pass the IFT there... It will be hard.
Most importantly of all, good luck and enjoy the course.
All due respect, but I believe nato.wp is showing some form of Initiative by asking the question on here. Surely he isn't a local from Tamworth and isn't aware of its Climate this time of year. I think its a fair question and it shows he's obviously thought about it and hasn't been able to come up with an answer. RE Tarakan and Labuan... I believe the RAAF issue you with thermals, so if it is your choice to wear them whilst digging pits in the middle of the night then so be it.
@ nato.wp, raiderboy etc etc
Tamworth can be hot this time of year however it is beginning to cool down somewhat (weather gods will make a liar of me however). So ultimately I suggest a mix of clothing but leaning more towards the summer style. With that in mind, arrive in Tamworth wearing neat casual attire (collared shirt and slacks), and you won't find yourself over or under dressed. Whilst on FSP, I suggest you wear nothing less than collar and tie (suit would go well here).
With respect to gloves and thermals etc etc... Not necessary unless they are stipulated in any instructions you recieve. If you havn't recieved any don't hesitate to contact the staff there and ask for a copy (if they still exist) or get them to answer your questions. Either way I don't think you'll find it too cold in the aircraft and the flying suits provided should be sufficient. I also don't recall doing the IFT there (was done back with DFR) but in terms of fitness opportunities... Theres always a couple of laps to the civilian terminal, and/or pushups/situps in your room. If you are at a reasonable level of fitness now then 2 weeks of limited exercise will not hurt you. If not... get cracking because if you're expected to pass the IFT there... It will be hard.
Most importantly of all, good luck and enjoy the course.
Join Date: May 2005
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@ spacemantan
But of course, you're right. How ignorant of me.
I'm relieved he finally "came up with an answer."
(No, the RAAF don't issue thermals at OTS).
@ Aussie_Aviator
All due respect, but I believe nato.wp is showing some form of Initiative by asking the question on here. Surely he isn't a local from Tamworth and isn't aware of its Climate this time of year. I think its a fair question and it shows he's obviously thought about it and hasn't been able to come up with an answer. RE Tarakan and Labuan... I believe the RAAF issue you with thermals, so if it is your choice to wear them whilst digging pits in the middle of the night then so be it.
All due respect, but I believe nato.wp is showing some form of Initiative by asking the question on here. Surely he isn't a local from Tamworth and isn't aware of its Climate this time of year. I think its a fair question and it shows he's obviously thought about it and hasn't been able to come up with an answer. RE Tarakan and Labuan... I believe the RAAF issue you with thermals, so if it is your choice to wear them whilst digging pits in the middle of the night then so be it.
I'm relieved he finally "came up with an answer."
(No, the RAAF don't issue thermals at OTS).