Chief Pilot Interview
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Chief Pilot Interview
Hi everyone,
I have an impending CP interview and am comfortably familiar with the information and criteria listed on the CASA website and in the Chief Pilots Handbook but am after any other advice from those with recent experience of what to expect with the CASA interview. I'm obviously aware that the focus will be on the Regs and the intricacies of the Ops Manual as expected and am prepared for that, but did anyone encounter any CASA surprises worth noting?
Thanks in advance,
Pilotette
I have an impending CP interview and am comfortably familiar with the information and criteria listed on the CASA website and in the Chief Pilots Handbook but am after any other advice from those with recent experience of what to expect with the CASA interview. I'm obviously aware that the focus will be on the Regs and the intricacies of the Ops Manual as expected and am prepared for that, but did anyone encounter any CASA surprises worth noting?
Thanks in advance,
Pilotette
Pilotette,
If it's anywhere near YSBK, make certain your answers are word for word from the Act, Regulations,Orders etc.,verbatim quotes, it seem that an "understanding" doesn't cut the mustard any longer.
Reputedly, one poor sod went up for a CP interview several months ago, came out reduced to an SPL.
Tootle pip!!
If it's anywhere near YSBK, make certain your answers are word for word from the Act, Regulations,Orders etc.,verbatim quotes, it seem that an "understanding" doesn't cut the mustard any longer.
Reputedly, one poor sod went up for a CP interview several months ago, came out reduced to an SPL.
Tootle pip!!
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You will have to do a flight plan involving the most sophisticated aircraft on the AOC. You could either get a simple flight from a-b-c or if he doesn't like what he sees or hears you may get A-B-C...... all the way to Z. Manifests, fuel loads, W+B each destination. WX, notams (don't forget HO notams).
If you're capable and competent and safe and have taken a genuine interest in the Regs......you'll do fine. If you don't know an answer let him know, don't guess.
Good luck
If you're capable and competent and safe and have taken a genuine interest in the Regs......you'll do fine. If you don't know an answer let him know, don't guess.
Good luck
When i did mine it was not enough to know the reg, but you had to be able to quote the number as well. It was a fun day, six hours of questions before they looked at my log book and said insufficient experience (this was for CFI). I wouldnt have minded but they had all my hour two weeks before.
Expect some what if questions. Such as Pilot X commits offence Y, what do you do etc.
Good luck
Expect some what if questions. Such as Pilot X commits offence Y, what do you do etc.
Good luck
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Pilottete,
mate!! before you even look at accepting a CP position have a good hard THINK!!!.
I suggest you have a good read of the criminal code, then have a good look at the penalties for "STRICT LIABILITY"and what it actually means. Then consider that most of the supposed experts who will be your judges couldnt hold a job in the industry for longer than five minutes, but are now the elite, the self appointed experts on everything aviation.
They will never have to take responsibility for any of their decisions ever again, they and their ego's are protected species.
You as chief pilot however, are always liable,regardless, with a potential prison sentence in it if you screw up, or are perceived to have screwed up, or any of your staff screw up.
Consider... there is ample evidence that these so called experts will LIE under oath in court...manufacture evidence to fit you up if they dont like you..etc etc...Do you really understand the Reg's???...not even they do!!..hence the vast volumes of advice etc produced to give them guidance on how to interpret them, and even then it still comes down to what an individual thinks!! and that could be one of them you had an issue with because what they were trying to impose on you was not safe...That leaves you as a chief pilot stumbling through a fog of indecision, with a potential jail sentence in it if you step into the spiders web of an FOI with a point to push.....Mate they cannot pay you enough money to accept that level of liability...
The title may sound nice, and look good on the CV, but its a poison chalice, believe an old digger.
mate!! before you even look at accepting a CP position have a good hard THINK!!!.
I suggest you have a good read of the criminal code, then have a good look at the penalties for "STRICT LIABILITY"and what it actually means. Then consider that most of the supposed experts who will be your judges couldnt hold a job in the industry for longer than five minutes, but are now the elite, the self appointed experts on everything aviation.
They will never have to take responsibility for any of their decisions ever again, they and their ego's are protected species.
You as chief pilot however, are always liable,regardless, with a potential prison sentence in it if you screw up, or are perceived to have screwed up, or any of your staff screw up.
Consider... there is ample evidence that these so called experts will LIE under oath in court...manufacture evidence to fit you up if they dont like you..etc etc...Do you really understand the Reg's???...not even they do!!..hence the vast volumes of advice etc produced to give them guidance on how to interpret them, and even then it still comes down to what an individual thinks!! and that could be one of them you had an issue with because what they were trying to impose on you was not safe...That leaves you as a chief pilot stumbling through a fog of indecision, with a potential jail sentence in it if you step into the spiders web of an FOI with a point to push.....Mate they cannot pay you enough money to accept that level of liability...
The title may sound nice, and look good on the CV, but its a poison chalice, believe an old digger.
thorn bird
That is rubbish! Please quote 3 of the instances of people being fitted up that you know to be a fact. I'll bet that I wont hear from you again. Yes there is always some risk involved in any job ( take LAME"S ) for instance, but if everybody was to take your negative attitude, where would we be?
Dont worry about that negative rubbish Pilottete, You just go for it and do your best.
That is all anybody can ask.
Dont worry about that negative rubbish Pilottete, You just go for it and do your best.
That is all anybody can ask.
I'm going to echo Arnold's sentiments. The predictions of fire and brimstone here are a bit dire, if you have a good practical knowledge of regs and your own delegations and responsibilities I'm sure you will be fine.
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Thanks for all the contribution so far. The concerns are noted but I'm already fully aware of my responsibilities and the consequences of issues that may arise. Liability is something I do take very seriously but can only endeavour to do my best in the position and guide the pilots under me to be just as responsible. At the end of the day, every pilot is also somewhat liable for their own actions as well, even though the CP takes the heaviest fall.
I appreciate the advice, help and concerns so far...keep them coming!
I appreciate the advice, help and concerns so far...keep them coming!
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Lighten up Thorn Bird
Geez mate what are you on? Here is a genuine plea for advice. Please treat it as such. If we took your advice we wouldn't get out of bed each day. To Pilotette just treat it like any other job. Know the rules and be a good manager of people and risk. I am sure you will do well.
Groggy
Groggy
1.know your ops manual.
2.know your ops manual.
3.etc etc.
The very nice man who did my CP interview, wondered why anyone would put themselves in such a position in this day and age.
good luck.
2.know your ops manual.
3.etc etc.
The very nice man who did my CP interview, wondered why anyone would put themselves in such a position in this day and age.
good luck.
CASA do not appear to have any standard CP interview process. At entry level GA they may make a big deal out of a flight planning and loading exam - I dunno because I never had to do a formal exam with them. Maybe they assumed I knew that stuff already, HA HA. Seems a bit pointless if you have recently done all your ATPL theory.
They will want you to know something of the Civil Aviation Act, particularly Section 28 where it bangs on about duty of care, provision of facilities etc. A good working knowledge of CAO 48, or if your employer runs the 'standard' exemption, that too. IFR recency, maybe a practical exercise with a MEL etc. CAO 82.3 from start to end.
A lot depends on what sort of reputation your employer has with them. If they are a bit dodgy on maintenance, expect a grilling in that area, if dodgy on performance, in that area etc.
The 'wotif' could be anything from how to deal with the boss's favorite son/daughter who wants to fly but is useless, to an irate customer demanding that you press on into bad weather, to financial implications if you were to jack up on an issue and lose your job. The answer to all of the above will vary according to how they set the scenario, but the common thread is that the CP holds the AOC and the boss may occasionally need to be reminded of this fact.
Also, remember that as CASA's delegate, they need you there as much as you want to be there. Their main concern will be that you are strong enough to stand up to the demands and pressures of the job. It will only be a poison chalice if your employer is on the dark side.
If you build a good reputation with CASA and treat your troops fairly, you will never be unemployed. Good luck
They will want you to know something of the Civil Aviation Act, particularly Section 28 where it bangs on about duty of care, provision of facilities etc. A good working knowledge of CAO 48, or if your employer runs the 'standard' exemption, that too. IFR recency, maybe a practical exercise with a MEL etc. CAO 82.3 from start to end.
A lot depends on what sort of reputation your employer has with them. If they are a bit dodgy on maintenance, expect a grilling in that area, if dodgy on performance, in that area etc.
The 'wotif' could be anything from how to deal with the boss's favorite son/daughter who wants to fly but is useless, to an irate customer demanding that you press on into bad weather, to financial implications if you were to jack up on an issue and lose your job. The answer to all of the above will vary according to how they set the scenario, but the common thread is that the CP holds the AOC and the boss may occasionally need to be reminded of this fact.
Also, remember that as CASA's delegate, they need you there as much as you want to be there. Their main concern will be that you are strong enough to stand up to the demands and pressures of the job. It will only be a poison chalice if your employer is on the dark side.
If you build a good reputation with CASA and treat your troops fairly, you will never be unemployed. Good luck
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Thanks again to all those who have offered words of encouragement and also for the information of certain scenarios and questions to expect.
185Skywagon...That makes me feel a bit better, my revision has been making me feel like a walking-talking ops manual of late.
I'm glad its worth it!
Mach E Avelli...Thanks, I am lucky in that our operation has quite a healthy relationship with CASA and our boss in particular has a very good reputation in the industry. If that works in my favour, great, but I will still try to cover all my bases as far as preparation goes.
Thanks again everyone!
185Skywagon...That makes me feel a bit better, my revision has been making me feel like a walking-talking ops manual of late.
I'm glad its worth it!Mach E Avelli...Thanks, I am lucky in that our operation has quite a healthy relationship with CASA and our boss in particular has a very good reputation in the industry. If that works in my favour, great, but I will still try to cover all my bases as far as preparation goes.
Thanks again everyone!
The chap that did mine, has the initials GM in the north NSW area. A real gentleman.
I hope you get someone like him.
Basically covered the sort of ops we do, F&D, Maintenance, responsibilities etc. All in a conversational format.
Had lots of helpful suggestions as well.
Back home to meet the Warrego River tomorrow, before the next lot of rain.
I hope you get someone like him.
Basically covered the sort of ops we do, F&D, Maintenance, responsibilities etc. All in a conversational format.
Had lots of helpful suggestions as well.
Back home to meet the Warrego River tomorrow, before the next lot of rain.
Unless you're with a really decent operator, it's not the best job to have in aviation. You won't get any credit for doing things right but as soon as anything goes wrong it's your head on the block. Can look good on a resume though.
As listed above re points to pay attention to for the interview, also an opportunity for you to gain some inside knowledge on your employer. You may find CASA have concerns about their maintenance, you could also find out if bills are paid on time which may be relevant to you later on.
If successful, you will be watched for the first few months. Expect phone calls and possibly a visit if they have any concerns.
In some ways you are CASAs man in the company you will have the "get out clause" explained to you if you're approved. Any chief pilot knows what I'm talking about.
As listed above re points to pay attention to for the interview, also an opportunity for you to gain some inside knowledge on your employer. You may find CASA have concerns about their maintenance, you could also find out if bills are paid on time which may be relevant to you later on.
If successful, you will be watched for the first few months. Expect phone calls and possibly a visit if they have any concerns.
In some ways you are CASAs man in the company you will have the "get out clause" explained to you if you're approved. Any chief pilot knows what I'm talking about.
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Pilotette.
Firstly congratulations, your company thought highly of you, i asked the very same question 5 years ago.
Ultimatly it depends which company you work for, ie what environment are you working in.? Do you employ junior pilots, are you in a check and training role.? What area are you based. There is a difference between Melbourne wet season and Darwin. Expect alot of phone calls. Your life isn,t your own, not a bad thing. Document everything. Cover all bases.
Thats down the track. As previously noted know your regs inside and out. Know the difference between a class B maintaince release and a class A.
Why the hell i was asked that ? let some pen pusher in Darwin decide.
I don,t envy you one bit, Casa types spend weeks and months drolling over padantic pathetic bits and pieces that in a commercial reality don,t exist. Your dealing with pilots. Some self rightses, little spoilt up starts, and some who deserve to be there. Always remember where you started please. Choose your staff carefully, you will be the hire and firer.
I hope ultimately like our CP, you have a sense of calm, humour, and authourity, with respect.
Regards
Multi
Firstly congratulations, your company thought highly of you, i asked the very same question 5 years ago.
Ultimatly it depends which company you work for, ie what environment are you working in.? Do you employ junior pilots, are you in a check and training role.? What area are you based. There is a difference between Melbourne wet season and Darwin. Expect alot of phone calls. Your life isn,t your own, not a bad thing. Document everything. Cover all bases.
Thats down the track. As previously noted know your regs inside and out. Know the difference between a class B maintaince release and a class A.
Why the hell i was asked that ? let some pen pusher in Darwin decide.
I don,t envy you one bit, Casa types spend weeks and months drolling over padantic pathetic bits and pieces that in a commercial reality don,t exist. Your dealing with pilots. Some self rightses, little spoilt up starts, and some who deserve to be there. Always remember where you started please. Choose your staff carefully, you will be the hire and firer.
I hope ultimately like our CP, you have a sense of calm, humour, and authourity, with respect.
Regards
Multi
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As others have said -
Know regs and ops manual
know ur aircraft
contact foi who is conducting it sometimes they give you a study guide sheet with references to know...
Think practical as well as they will through scenarios at you and expect a practical application and understanding of your role...
Just remember your not their alone - contact the cp your replacing as some fois and different ops will have their own intricacies.
Overall study hard, be confident and relax. The last thing you want to be is a blabbering idiot.
My first one was very straight forward. The second cp job I had was after the previous candidates failed numerous times making mr Casa overly cautious and ridiculousy thorough. In the written be sure to write references and break down 3 sections to your answer - the reg the answer and how it affects u. The oral just think before opening your mouth... Be confident, and if your unsure indicate how you would overcome this I.e call foi or reference etc. For the flight just take your time and ensure you do everything by the book... This includes all checks briefs checklists etc. I.e use your checklists and operate to your ops manual exactly not just there or thereabouts. Check weather and notams carefully as with mels.
About all I can think of... Oh understand legal perspectives of your role... Check things like due diligance and negligence. management methods, Risk assessment, threat and error management, safety systems etc.
Check 82 48 and know them to death...
Any queries pm me if you like it wasn't long ago I did a recent assessment...
Cheers
Rob
Know regs and ops manual
know ur aircraft
contact foi who is conducting it sometimes they give you a study guide sheet with references to know...
Think practical as well as they will through scenarios at you and expect a practical application and understanding of your role...
Just remember your not their alone - contact the cp your replacing as some fois and different ops will have their own intricacies.
Overall study hard, be confident and relax. The last thing you want to be is a blabbering idiot.
My first one was very straight forward. The second cp job I had was after the previous candidates failed numerous times making mr Casa overly cautious and ridiculousy thorough. In the written be sure to write references and break down 3 sections to your answer - the reg the answer and how it affects u. The oral just think before opening your mouth... Be confident, and if your unsure indicate how you would overcome this I.e call foi or reference etc. For the flight just take your time and ensure you do everything by the book... This includes all checks briefs checklists etc. I.e use your checklists and operate to your ops manual exactly not just there or thereabouts. Check weather and notams carefully as with mels.
About all I can think of... Oh understand legal perspectives of your role... Check things like due diligance and negligence. management methods, Risk assessment, threat and error management, safety systems etc.
Check 82 48 and know them to death...
Any queries pm me if you like it wasn't long ago I did a recent assessment...
Cheers
Rob
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Thanks for all the contribution so far. The concerns are noted but I'm already fully aware of my responsibilities and the consequences of issues that may arise. Liability is something I do take very seriously but can only endeavour to do my best in the position and guide the pilots under me to be just as responsible. At the end of the day, every pilot is also somewhat liable for their own actions as well, even though the CP takes the heaviest fall.
I appreciate the advice, help and concerns so far...keep them coming!
I appreciate the advice, help and concerns so far...keep them coming!
Never scrouge on training and ensuring compliance... Of course there is some elastic in the rope but definately don't give to much or it will be a noose.
Replace some words from above and you'll get the idea...
Thanks for all the contribution so far. The concerns are noted but I'm already fully aware of my responsibilities and the consequences of issues that may arise. Liability is something I do take very serious and I will endeavour to direct my pilots to be just as responsible. At the end of the day, every pilot is responsible for their own actions, even though I as the CP bear the full responsibilty that everyone understands their duties and fufills them.
Remember "your pilots" are a team for which you are the captain, coach, umpire and cheer squad. Boone is "under" you, and although everyone bears some responsibilty YOUR in charge and bear the full responsibilty and liabilty for your operation.
Have fun - good luck
cheers
Rob
Great answer Xcel
I found the CASA guys are really helpful AS LONG AS you are open and play with a straight bat.
When something (or someone) f
ks up, be pro-active and ring your FOI. Tell them that xyz has happened and you propose to do abc about it - does that sound ok? Great, thanks, tick.
I seem to have survived 3 CP jobs - I have never been a perfect CP, there have been plenty of "learning experiences" along the way - but I have generally always been open with the "smiling assasins" and I have never been shut down, suspended, prosecuted or otherwise terrorised as thorn bird suggests I might.
Good luck
I found the CASA guys are really helpful AS LONG AS you are open and play with a straight bat.
When something (or someone) f
ks up, be pro-active and ring your FOI. Tell them that xyz has happened and you propose to do abc about it - does that sound ok? Great, thanks, tick.I seem to have survived 3 CP jobs - I have never been a perfect CP, there have been plenty of "learning experiences" along the way - but I have generally always been open with the "smiling assasins" and I have never been shut down, suspended, prosecuted or otherwise terrorised as thorn bird suggests I might.
Good luck
One last word of advice, but not particular to passing the CASA interview. However, it is certainly a question I asked more than once in a former life and I believe is one that CASA should always examine in some depth.
Before you accepted the gig, did you get information on how well your company is funded, whether it is profitable in its own right (as opposed to some tax write-off) and the bossman's attitude to spending a buck on training and support services? Will you have any budgetary control? Even if he is the nicest guy on the planet, if he is stripping it of profits, or making a loss, or if you have to grovel and beg to get minor support services in order to meet compliance, then you really do need to think about how badly you want the job.
Before you accepted the gig, did you get information on how well your company is funded, whether it is profitable in its own right (as opposed to some tax write-off) and the bossman's attitude to spending a buck on training and support services? Will you have any budgetary control? Even if he is the nicest guy on the planet, if he is stripping it of profits, or making a loss, or if you have to grovel and beg to get minor support services in order to meet compliance, then you really do need to think about how badly you want the job.
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did you get information on how well your company is funded, whether it is profitable in its own right (as opposed to some tax write-off) and the bossman's attitude to spending a buck on training and support services? Will you have any budgetary control? Even if he is the nicest guy on the planet, if he is stripping it of profits, or making a loss, or if you have to grovel and beg to get minor support services in order to meet compliance