OASC 'CANDIDATES' and WANNABES, PLEASE READ THIS THREAD FIRST!
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Aircrew Measurements
Hi guys,
Just been browsing and thought I'd add my experience (or the shortened part!)
I was accepted aircrew in '03 being only millimetres inside the leg limits at OASC. The Doctor there said I might be marginal for FJ, but no worries for the rest, so off I went. Following EFT nothing was said about potential restrictions so off I went to Linton. Hoorah! The Tincan was a tight squeeze, and needed a cockpit check with the SMO before getting cleared to fly. This was flagged up at AMTW Henlow before starting at Linton. He then mentioned that the Hawk was smaller, and recommended a check prior to finishing. The subsequent check at Leeming did indeed show that I was too big for the Hawk, so I was suspended from BFJT and re-streamed multi's (turned rotary down). I am now at Brize and having a great time!
If you think you are marginal it is well worth getting an actual cockpit check done, and from what I have seen and heard, the Hawk cockpit is the limiting factor in the training system. That said, if I had done it sooner, I would have missed 100hrs of flying the Tincan screaming around at low level! Timing is everything! Hope this helps some people. Good luck guys!
DF
Just been browsing and thought I'd add my experience (or the shortened part!)
I was accepted aircrew in '03 being only millimetres inside the leg limits at OASC. The Doctor there said I might be marginal for FJ, but no worries for the rest, so off I went. Following EFT nothing was said about potential restrictions so off I went to Linton. Hoorah! The Tincan was a tight squeeze, and needed a cockpit check with the SMO before getting cleared to fly. This was flagged up at AMTW Henlow before starting at Linton. He then mentioned that the Hawk was smaller, and recommended a check prior to finishing. The subsequent check at Leeming did indeed show that I was too big for the Hawk, so I was suspended from BFJT and re-streamed multi's (turned rotary down). I am now at Brize and having a great time!
If you think you are marginal it is well worth getting an actual cockpit check done, and from what I have seen and heard, the Hawk cockpit is the limiting factor in the training system. That said, if I had done it sooner, I would have missed 100hrs of flying the Tincan screaming around at low level! Timing is everything! Hope this helps some people. Good luck guys!
DF
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Hi guys, I've got an asthma update:
I spoke with a Navy official today at a careers fair and asked him about asthma. He said that if you've ever been diagnosed (not just in the past four years) then it causes big problems. However, when I made the suggestion of getting a doctor's note to say that I've been mis-diagnosed he said that it would be helpful as they basically make a decision by hearing both sides of the argument (I'm guessing your medical evidence against theirs i.e. in my mind it seems that the more authoritative evidence you have [i.e. a senior GP or a specialist etc] the more notice they'll take of it.).
I spoke with a Navy official today at a careers fair and asked him about asthma. He said that if you've ever been diagnosed (not just in the past four years) then it causes big problems. However, when I made the suggestion of getting a doctor's note to say that I've been mis-diagnosed he said that it would be helpful as they basically make a decision by hearing both sides of the argument (I'm guessing your medical evidence against theirs i.e. in my mind it seems that the more authoritative evidence you have [i.e. a senior GP or a specialist etc] the more notice they'll take of it.).
I don't own this space under my name. I should have leased it while I still could
if you've ever been diagnosed (not just in the past four years) then it causes big problems.
a doctor's note to say . . . mis-diagnosed . . . helpful . . . more authoritative evidence . . . the more notice they'll take of it.).
What you are asking for is one healthcare professional to say another healthcare professional was wrong. This would challenge the whole basis of medical opinion. What do you reckon your chances now?
Last edited by Pontius Navigator; 7th Nov 2008 at 14:17.
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Roughly fifteen years without any symptoms since diagnosis (at a very young age) would be pretty good evidence of a mis-diagnosis in my opinion. Last time I went to see the GP (not my usual one) I asked him if he could re-test me 'or something' explaining how I think I was mis-diagnosed. He said that he'd give me a pump for the time being to see how it went. Next time I go back I'll say what was said time and ask for a re-test or re-evaluation - I'm sure if I explained why it is of importance they'd at least listen/consider it. If I could see a specialist it would be great as that type of evidence would be, in my opinion, difficult to ignore.
In regards to your comment about one healthcare professional going against another healthcare professional's opinion, people get second opinions quite frequently. Additionally, as the diagnosis was about fifteen years ago, I'm sure the doc wouldn't mind reviewing it.
So in answer to your question of how do I think my chances are now I'd say it depends on if I can get a re-diagnosis. If I had good evidence I'm sure I could use some of my lawyer skills to convince them that I don't have asthma
.
In regards to your comment about one healthcare professional going against another healthcare professional's opinion, people get second opinions quite frequently. Additionally, as the diagnosis was about fifteen years ago, I'm sure the doc wouldn't mind reviewing it.
So in answer to your question of how do I think my chances are now I'd say it depends on if I can get a re-diagnosis. If I had good evidence I'm sure I could use some of my lawyer skills to convince them that I don't have asthma
.
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El Supremo,
You seem to be going round and round in circles here. If you are so sure you are not asthmatic why did you accept a pump from the new doctor?Do you use preventative/reliever inhalers regularly? Accepting this sort of medication will not look good on your initial medical. However some good news:
I applied in 1989 so my experience is a little out of date. I was a diagnosed asthmatic from a young age but "grew out of it" when I entered my teens.I explained this to the careers officer who warned me that my chances of being successful with my application for RN aircrew was slim but agreed to put me forward as I was a "strong candidate". So with no real hope for the future I sat and passed FAT and AIB with good scores for both.
I had 7 medication free years before joining up and took my GPs notes and a handwritten letter to the PMO in charge of my medical board. The PMO was a four ring captain who specialised in aviation medicine and he explained that although I had an excellent level of fitness and GP evidence I still had to undergo additional testing in the form of an allergy test. The results came back that I was acceptable for Observor only and that is what I joined up as.
The lesson being that if you don't try you don't get, but make sure you give yourself every chance you can. Oh, and this forum cannot give you a medical waiver no matter how strong a case you put.
You seem to be going round and round in circles here. If you are so sure you are not asthmatic why did you accept a pump from the new doctor?Do you use preventative/reliever inhalers regularly? Accepting this sort of medication will not look good on your initial medical. However some good news:
I applied in 1989 so my experience is a little out of date. I was a diagnosed asthmatic from a young age but "grew out of it" when I entered my teens.I explained this to the careers officer who warned me that my chances of being successful with my application for RN aircrew was slim but agreed to put me forward as I was a "strong candidate". So with no real hope for the future I sat and passed FAT and AIB with good scores for both.
I had 7 medication free years before joining up and took my GPs notes and a handwritten letter to the PMO in charge of my medical board. The PMO was a four ring captain who specialised in aviation medicine and he explained that although I had an excellent level of fitness and GP evidence I still had to undergo additional testing in the form of an allergy test. The results came back that I was acceptable for Observor only and that is what I joined up as.
The lesson being that if you don't try you don't get, but make sure you give yourself every chance you can. Oh, and this forum cannot give you a medical waiver no matter how strong a case you put.
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Hey, thanks for the advice.
Although it seems like I'm going around in circles I'm only really gathering as much info as I can before I apply (after I graduate from the post-graduate course I'm on in August/September). In the meantime I'm going to try to gather as much evidence (hopefully a written note from my GP and maybe even a specialist if I'm lucky) as I can to present to the person(s) deciding my fate.
I regards to the pumps no I never use them as they are merely given to me every time the previous one has past its 'best-by date' which admittadly I should have refused (heinsight is a wonderful thing!).
Anyway, you seem to have been roughly in the same situation as I am so hopefully they'll be willing to give me a chance.
Although it seems like I'm going around in circles I'm only really gathering as much info as I can before I apply (after I graduate from the post-graduate course I'm on in August/September). In the meantime I'm going to try to gather as much evidence (hopefully a written note from my GP and maybe even a specialist if I'm lucky) as I can to present to the person(s) deciding my fate.
I regards to the pumps no I never use them as they are merely given to me every time the previous one has past its 'best-by date' which admittadly I should have refused (heinsight is a wonderful thing!).
Anyway, you seem to have been roughly in the same situation as I am so hopefully they'll be willing to give me a chance.
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Asthma: experiences of selection issues...
I thought this warranted its own thread so that people could find it easily and get advice.
After speaking with people on here and with officials, I have come to the conclusion that if you were once diagnosed with asthma (however long ago) then you are barred from being a pilot unless you can convince them otherise (i.e. that you were mis-diagnosed etc). I was diagnosed at 5 or 6 and I'm convinced I was mis-diagnosed as I've never had any problems throughout my life (now 21). I hope to get a note from my GP and/or specialist (after testing) to say that I was mis-diagnosed all of those years ago as evidence.
Is there anyone out there that has either applied to the RAF or Navy as a fast jet pilot but run into issues over asthma? What did you do to conince them that asthma wasn't an issue? Did you not succeed?
PS - thanks CleartoFire for the advice given in the other thread.
After speaking with people on here and with officials, I have come to the conclusion that if you were once diagnosed with asthma (however long ago) then you are barred from being a pilot unless you can convince them otherise (i.e. that you were mis-diagnosed etc). I was diagnosed at 5 or 6 and I'm convinced I was mis-diagnosed as I've never had any problems throughout my life (now 21). I hope to get a note from my GP and/or specialist (after testing) to say that I was mis-diagnosed all of those years ago as evidence.
Is there anyone out there that has either applied to the RAF or Navy as a fast jet pilot but run into issues over asthma? What did you do to conince them that asthma wasn't an issue? Did you not succeed?
PS - thanks CleartoFire for the advice given in the other thread.
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Is there anyone out there that has either applied to the RAF or Navy as a fast jet pilot
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I should have added that the official I spoke to (I think he said he was a recruiter/interviewer) seemed quite up-beat about the whole situation. He was very keen for me to start the ball rolling by signing up there and then and explained how there are ways around the asthma issue.
I don't own this space under my name. I should have leased it while I still could
I should have added that the official I spoke to (I think he said he was a recruiter/interviewer) seemed quite up-beat about the whole situation. He was very keen for me to start the ball rolling by signing up there and then and explained how there are ways around the asthma issue.
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just need a few things clearing up please
hiya everyone i am about to book my filter interview i was just wondering if any one has got any tips for me?? or any pointers? ive applied for WSOp. any advise would be grateful....also i need to clarify the PJFT at OASC is it only a bleep test and swim test? or does it include press ups and sit ups aswell? not that there is a problem with press up and sits ups i just like to know what i gotta do before i gotta do it lol!!!
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SORRY
thanks for ur reply.... in responce to the private messages... i was not aware this was an english examination and prefect english must be used on a thread!!.... i would just like to say to these people 'get a life and stop being so pedantic' i appreciate the advise but was there and need in suggesting i was stupid and to look into a different branch. dont you think i would have checked that i met the criteria before even going to the AFCO...
I don't own this space under my name. I should have leased it while I still could
barnsleygal, not many things rile me but your illiterate, ignorant and ill informed reaction in public forum to advice offered in a private message leads me to only one conclusion; you have an inability to accept criticism and advice which demonstrates your unsuitablity for service in the Royal Air Force, let alone being a Senior Non-Commissioned member of aircrew.
I suggest you think long and hard before you consider going to an AFCO.
I suggest you think long and hard before you consider going to an AFCO.
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i accept positive criticism, but i am new to this and that was my first post and to recieve pedantic messages riled me as i was under the impression that one of the core values was RESPECT and i feel that some messages did not demonstrate this. you have just shown no respect by calling me illiterate (again i was not aware i was in a exam) and you have no right to make judgement on my suitablity due to a post on a thread. i have been to an AFCO and it was there where i was told i should consider an NC aircrew position. i would like to apologise if i have appeared ignorant as that was not my intention and i would be thankful on any tips that a relevent to the filter interview not in the post language i use please. i only want to make sure i am fully prepeard in what could be asked in this filter interview.
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The importance of correct grammar, spelling and punctuation.
Barnsleygal,
Just to put it in a different light - there is no harm in getting into good habits now. You will be expected to write correctly at all times during basic and NCAIT - in essays, defence writing etc. What the [old and] bold are doing is giving you a polite hint and perhaps trying to help you out in the long run. You are lucky they were kind enough to PM you about it, most would be hung, drawn and quartered in public!
Instead of getting all gobby about it, take it on the chin and get on with it. Learning this practise will also stand you in good stead for all the bull you will have to put up with during your training. Sometimes just letting it all ride over and taking heed the advice is the best thing you can do.
This may ONLY be Pprune but I can safely say, the more you do to make a good impression on here, the more willing people will be to help you. Same goes on thestudentroom.co.uk; if you haven't already been over for a look. Couple of guys and girls currently applying for WSOp over there.
Just to put it in a different light - there is no harm in getting into good habits now. You will be expected to write correctly at all times during basic and NCAIT - in essays, defence writing etc. What the [old and] bold are doing is giving you a polite hint and perhaps trying to help you out in the long run. You are lucky they were kind enough to PM you about it, most would be hung, drawn and quartered in public!
Instead of getting all gobby about it, take it on the chin and get on with it. Learning this practise will also stand you in good stead for all the bull you will have to put up with during your training. Sometimes just letting it all ride over and taking heed the advice is the best thing you can do.
This may ONLY be Pprune but I can safely say, the more you do to make a good impression on here, the more willing people will be to help you. Same goes on thestudentroom.co.uk; if you haven't already been over for a look. Couple of guys and girls currently applying for WSOp over there.
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I wanna be a pilot!
I want to be a pilot for the Royal Air Force and simply want to know more about the whole application process.
Well, I've read what I can on the RAF website and have just discovered this website and e-goat.
I'm particularly interested in getting some advice directly from the pilots themselves - so if you're a pilot reading this, please answer!
I think I have a good general understanding of how things go at the OASC, but there's one thing that's been bugging me... all you pilots out there who passed at the OASC, did you go in there as complete aviation enthusiasts who had wanted to be a pilot since you were born, or did any of you go in like me - 20 years old and thinking, "you know what, I've not considered it before but I really would like to be a pilot with the RAF,"???
I've got 11 gcses, 2 A-levels and an AS in physics, and I understand that I'd have to do a lot of reading up on the RAF, it's history, current affairs etc etc etc. Do the people at the OASC make preference towards the die-hard life long pilot wannabes, or is it totally down to how well you perform in all the stages and what they think of you as an individual, regardless of how long you've wanted to do it for.
...basically I've managed to convince myself I would be the only one there who hadn't been in air cadets, UAC, boy scouts, etc etc etc...
Thanks for the help!
Well, I've read what I can on the RAF website and have just discovered this website and e-goat.
I'm particularly interested in getting some advice directly from the pilots themselves - so if you're a pilot reading this, please answer!
I think I have a good general understanding of how things go at the OASC, but there's one thing that's been bugging me... all you pilots out there who passed at the OASC, did you go in there as complete aviation enthusiasts who had wanted to be a pilot since you were born, or did any of you go in like me - 20 years old and thinking, "you know what, I've not considered it before but I really would like to be a pilot with the RAF,"???
I've got 11 gcses, 2 A-levels and an AS in physics, and I understand that I'd have to do a lot of reading up on the RAF, it's history, current affairs etc etc etc. Do the people at the OASC make preference towards the die-hard life long pilot wannabes, or is it totally down to how well you perform in all the stages and what they think of you as an individual, regardless of how long you've wanted to do it for.
...basically I've managed to convince myself I would be the only one there who hadn't been in air cadets, UAC, boy scouts, etc etc etc...
Thanks for the help!
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..
It's not that it was a change of mind, I'd just never ever considered it before.
After doing a lot of research/reading on the RAF website and other various sources, I just get the feel that I'd really enjoy it.
I don't just want to go for it because of the perks (subsidised living, free training etc etc - which I get the impression a lot of people like the RAF because of that). I'm genuinely interested in the role of the Royal Air Force, at home and overseas.
When people say they love their job and things like that, I've never been able to picture myself being genuinely happy in any line of work - I always feel like I'd want more or want to achieve something else. In my opinion even the highest paid jobs can probably be just as monotonous and dull as any position.
After 'discovering' the RAF, reading up on it's vision, values, lifestyle, etc, I really think I've found one of those jobs where I'd be able to say I find it rewarding and feel that I'm helping others on the way. Already I have a better understanding of the role the RAF plays in security, peacekeeping, search and rescue, delivering aid, and more.
If the RAF proved to be everything I think it is, I'd gladly work a whole career without just thinking of the money!
...that a good enough answer for why I've 'suddenly' changed my mind?
After doing a lot of research/reading on the RAF website and other various sources, I just get the feel that I'd really enjoy it.
I don't just want to go for it because of the perks (subsidised living, free training etc etc - which I get the impression a lot of people like the RAF because of that). I'm genuinely interested in the role of the Royal Air Force, at home and overseas.
When people say they love their job and things like that, I've never been able to picture myself being genuinely happy in any line of work - I always feel like I'd want more or want to achieve something else. In my opinion even the highest paid jobs can probably be just as monotonous and dull as any position.
After 'discovering' the RAF, reading up on it's vision, values, lifestyle, etc, I really think I've found one of those jobs where I'd be able to say I find it rewarding and feel that I'm helping others on the way. Already I have a better understanding of the role the RAF plays in security, peacekeeping, search and rescue, delivering aid, and more.
If the RAF proved to be everything I think it is, I'd gladly work a whole career without just thinking of the money!
...that a good enough answer for why I've 'suddenly' changed my mind?
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Your depth and breadth as a person will be more important than any amount of 'spotting' knowledge.
Don't concern yourself with AC/UAS's etc, it provides no more help than showing you how to wear the uniform. "Die hard life long wannabes" usually remain wannabes for various reasons - some medical, some professional, some just to do with your face not fitting.
Granted, you'll be required to 'know your trade' but that goes for any job interview - you would not wander into anything else without having done some background reading.
Have the courage of your conviction, know why you want to be there and make sure you communicate this when asked; and for god's sake don't say anything about 'Queen and Country' - they'll see right through that.
Consider going to university, or at least talking to a Careers officer about it first. Remember you'll be up against many people who have, and while you're there (the careers office) also consider what you want to fly - every man jack goes straight for the fast jet option, so again think about the competition.
Good luck - read up on your career options, prepare mentally and get fit.
Don't concern yourself with AC/UAS's etc, it provides no more help than showing you how to wear the uniform. "Die hard life long wannabes" usually remain wannabes for various reasons - some medical, some professional, some just to do with your face not fitting.
Granted, you'll be required to 'know your trade' but that goes for any job interview - you would not wander into anything else without having done some background reading.
Have the courage of your conviction, know why you want to be there and make sure you communicate this when asked; and for god's sake don't say anything about 'Queen and Country' - they'll see right through that.
Consider going to university, or at least talking to a Careers officer about it first. Remember you'll be up against many people who have, and while you're there (the careers office) also consider what you want to fly - every man jack goes straight for the fast jet option, so again think about the competition.
Good luck - read up on your career options, prepare mentally and get fit.