Newbie & Flying Training Advice (Merged)
Join Date: Sep 2014
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Jetstar/Virgin Cadet ship 2020 intake
Hey guys
I'm currently an investment banker, looking to a career change and to follow my childhood dream of becoming a pilot. Does anyone know if Jetstar or Virgin is doing an intake for 2020 pilot cadetship?
I'm currently an investment banker, looking to a career change and to follow my childhood dream of becoming a pilot. Does anyone know if Jetstar or Virgin is doing an intake for 2020 pilot cadetship?
Check website links but think carefully before applying.
If they are recruiting there should be a link allowing you to apply on the website. Like Qantas mainline recruitment, the link disappears when they aren’t recruiting so you have to check occasionally. No need to check everyday, as recruitment for these sorts of jobs stays open for a while. If you follow this forum you will also see it mentioned in the threads about the respective airline.
I understand the flying dream etc, but you have a good career with massive earning potential particularly if you are willing to do the hard yards in London/New York (get minted). Flying has some serious downsides from a health point of view. These include cosmic radiation, constant inhalation of petrochemical fumes, long periods of sitting, circadian flips including highly irregular wake times, the list goes on and on.
I just don’t think in your shoes, the return is there when you are already in a good career. I personally enjoy my job but wouldn’t recommend it to my children and looking back if I had my time over would have probably gone for something different.
My best mate is an investment banker and while his job also has some significant downsides the rewards have been there for the effort. Wishing you the best in your endeavours.
I understand the flying dream etc, but you have a good career with massive earning potential particularly if you are willing to do the hard yards in London/New York (get minted). Flying has some serious downsides from a health point of view. These include cosmic radiation, constant inhalation of petrochemical fumes, long periods of sitting, circadian flips including highly irregular wake times, the list goes on and on.
I just don’t think in your shoes, the return is there when you are already in a good career. I personally enjoy my job but wouldn’t recommend it to my children and looking back if I had my time over would have probably gone for something different.
My best mate is an investment banker and while his job also has some significant downsides the rewards have been there for the effort. Wishing you the best in your endeavours.
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The Virgin cadetship last time round had 4000 people apply. 12 got in. From memory the majority were female, they use these courses to increase the low quota of female pilots. Jetstar has a similar quota of applicants and entry. The cadets all seem very young also late teens, early 20s.
If if you want to go down the GA to Regional to Airline Route the first few years you will be earning 40k a year, then a few more years of 50k, then as we approach the 10 year mark you might be at a regional on 70k. And that’s after a couple of years slogging away getting a self funded CPL which you are negative a hundred grand before the first job. Then comes the issue of funding the first job.
Option 2 is easier if single and flexible. The only way to really do it these days is a decade of 6 figure earning in another industry to set your life up then go into it. Otherwise financially miserable.
If if you want to go down the GA to Regional to Airline Route the first few years you will be earning 40k a year, then a few more years of 50k, then as we approach the 10 year mark you might be at a regional on 70k. And that’s after a couple of years slogging away getting a self funded CPL which you are negative a hundred grand before the first job. Then comes the issue of funding the first job.
Option 2 is easier if single and flexible. The only way to really do it these days is a decade of 6 figure earning in another industry to set your life up then go into it. Otherwise financially miserable.
Join Date: Oct 2018
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The Virgin cadetship last time round had 4000 people apply. 12 got in. From memory the majority were female, they use these courses to increase the low quota of female pilots. Jetstar has a similar quota of applicants and entry. The cadets all seem very young also late teens, early 20s.
If if you want to go down the GA to Regional to Airline Route the first few years you will be earning 40k a year, then a few more years of 50k, then as we approach the 10 year mark you might be at a regional on 70k. And that’s after a couple of years slogging away getting a self funded CPL which you are negative a hundred grand before the first job. Then comes the issue of funding the first job.
Option 2 is easier if single and flexible. The only way to really do it these days is a decade of 6 figure earning in another industry to set your life up then go into it. Otherwise financially miserable.
If if you want to go down the GA to Regional to Airline Route the first few years you will be earning 40k a year, then a few more years of 50k, then as we approach the 10 year mark you might be at a regional on 70k. And that’s after a couple of years slogging away getting a self funded CPL which you are negative a hundred grand before the first job. Then comes the issue of funding the first job.
Option 2 is easier if single and flexible. The only way to really do it these days is a decade of 6 figure earning in another industry to set your life up then go into it. Otherwise financially miserable.
Wheels, that whole attitude and focus on $$$ is what makes people miserable in the first place - no matter what their profession. Yeah you can earn way more in jobs such as investment banking, but having a $3m dollar mortgage and nice view does not correlate to happiness. The earlier poster, if you really are doing it for the right reasons, then who cares about a cadetship. That will probably lead you straight back to where you were as a banker. Do it for the adventure and do it because you're passionate about it. Don't do it because you think you'll be flying a big jet in a fancy looking uniform.
Join Date: Mar 2015
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Pilot career evenings in Auckland and Christchurch
Something for the guys and girls in NZ who are interested and would like to be able to speak to people in person and ask questions etc...
Auckland, Tuesday August 27th... note that there are TWO sessions:
Session 1: https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/air-n...ts-67660477309
Session 2: https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/air-n...9305?aff=ebapi
There is also a Christchurch event on Thursday September 5th listed here: https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/air-n...7417?aff=ebapi
Auckland, Tuesday August 27th... note that there are TWO sessions:
Session 1: https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/air-n...ts-67660477309
Session 2: https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/air-n...9305?aff=ebapi
There is also a Christchurch event on Thursday September 5th listed here: https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/air-n...7417?aff=ebapi
Join Date: May 2019
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
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Thank you sir, was going but couldn't find the website from which I could 'purchase' the tickets from. Real lifesaver. By the way, do you happen to be an Air New Zealand pilot?
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Singapore
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Good and reliable flying clubs in Brisbane
Hi gentleman,
Any good flying clubs in Brisbane for doing CPL training with Multi Engine and Instrument Rating? I will need to do CSU/RU endorsement as well.
Currently I have a CASA PPL with 160 Hours - Pilot In Command + P2 hours.
Cheers
Any good flying clubs in Brisbane for doing CPL training with Multi Engine and Instrument Rating? I will need to do CSU/RU endorsement as well.
Currently I have a CASA PPL with 160 Hours - Pilot In Command + P2 hours.
Cheers
Join Date: Sep 2019
Location: Victoria
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Flight Schools Moorabin - Diploma of Aviation
Hi all,
Just seeking some advice about some reputable flight schools in Moorabin which offer VET-FEE Help to complete a diploma of Aviation.
I've tried a TIF and will be booking in another one shortly, but just wanted to gain some insight on schools if were to pursue it.
If anyone is also able to provide clarification around the general pathway for jobs upon completion of the diploma. Do the flight schools assist with the transition/provide networking or is it generally just do your own thing upon completion?
Thanks in advance.
Just seeking some advice about some reputable flight schools in Moorabin which offer VET-FEE Help to complete a diploma of Aviation.
I've tried a TIF and will be booking in another one shortly, but just wanted to gain some insight on schools if were to pursue it.
If anyone is also able to provide clarification around the general pathway for jobs upon completion of the diploma. Do the flight schools assist with the transition/provide networking or is it generally just do your own thing upon completion?
Thanks in advance.

Join Date: Dec 2018
Location: Sydney
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G'day!
In a few months I will be finishing Year 12 and I am wondering what I should do next, whether I should go to University or a flight school.
In University of New South Wales, a Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) degree costs 133k AUD.
Whereas, some flight schools offer the same course for 75-85k.
So, what's up with that? Is there any reason to pay an additional 48-58 thousand dollars? I understand that the University provides a degree, but just how useful is it?
P.S. I'm pretty sure I'm not the first person who asked this question, but I wasn't able to find any concrete information.
In a few months I will be finishing Year 12 and I am wondering what I should do next, whether I should go to University or a flight school.
In University of New South Wales, a Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) degree costs 133k AUD.
For 2019 commencement students, it is $133,500 for the basic course, which results in a Commercial Pilot Licence and Instrument Rating – Multi Engine Aeroplane.
So, what's up with that? Is there any reason to pay an additional 48-58 thousand dollars? I understand that the University provides a degree, but just how useful is it?
P.S. I'm pretty sure I'm not the first person who asked this question, but I wasn't able to find any concrete information.
Join Date: Aug 2019
Location: Cranbourne, Melbourne
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ADAPT test
Hi just wondering if i start the Jetstar cadetship i will need to go through the CAE ADAPT test. Just wondering what it tests you on and how i can practice? thanks
cost comparison
Check out the fine print to see what you get.
I am fairly sure that you get CPL, all ATPL theory, instrument rating, with all theory exams and flight tests included at UNSW. You also get all your theory manuals, and an initial set of CASA documents. In other words all costs unless you overfly or fail tests or exams. I am not sure about Multi Crew training. Best to ask them. Also they have a top cohort of full time theory and flight instructors. The UNSW reputation is very high, and the aircraft and simulators in great shape.
There is an Open Day at UNSW flight Ops Bankstown Airport on 21 Sept 1000 to 1200.
The cheap prices usually do not cover anything other than a very limited amount of flying, and are done with casual flying instructors who only earn a set amount per flight. If you need to spend more time discussing issues with them they don't get paid. Also there can be a huge difference in approach from different instructors as they are often not standardised across the School. You will find there are always extra costs, such as theory classes, exams and tests, landing fees, reference materials and charts, CASR, AIP etc.
Do your research. What appears to be cheap may not be either cheap or good quality!
Seabreeze
I am fairly sure that you get CPL, all ATPL theory, instrument rating, with all theory exams and flight tests included at UNSW. You also get all your theory manuals, and an initial set of CASA documents. In other words all costs unless you overfly or fail tests or exams. I am not sure about Multi Crew training. Best to ask them. Also they have a top cohort of full time theory and flight instructors. The UNSW reputation is very high, and the aircraft and simulators in great shape.
There is an Open Day at UNSW flight Ops Bankstown Airport on 21 Sept 1000 to 1200.
The cheap prices usually do not cover anything other than a very limited amount of flying, and are done with casual flying instructors who only earn a set amount per flight. If you need to spend more time discussing issues with them they don't get paid. Also there can be a huge difference in approach from different instructors as they are often not standardised across the School. You will find there are always extra costs, such as theory classes, exams and tests, landing fees, reference materials and charts, CASR, AIP etc.
Do your research. What appears to be cheap may not be either cheap or good quality!
Seabreeze
Last edited by Seabreeze; 2nd Sep 2019 at 02:50.
megab22.
Your last post not long ago indicated: "I am currently in year 9 finishing year 10."
Fine to dream and plan but I think you should focused on Years 11 and 12 if you hope for an airline flying career?
Your last post not long ago indicated: "I am currently in year 9 finishing year 10."
Fine to dream and plan but I think you should focused on Years 11 and 12 if you hope for an airline flying career?
In University of New South Wales, a Bachelor of Aviation (Flying) degree costs 133k AUD. Whereas, some flight schools offer the same course for 75-85k.
So, what's up with that? Is there any reason to pay an additional 48-58 thousand dollars? I understand that the University provides a degree, but just how useful is it?
So, what's up with that? Is there any reason to pay an additional 48-58 thousand dollars? I understand that the University provides a degree, but just how useful is it?
QantasLink-UNSW Partnership
It in a way is sort of like a pseudo Cadetship. Of course a real Cadetship would be the preferred option. Like UNSW it would be at a greater cost, although not too dissimilar, you have to add the cost of an instrument rating and ATPL theory lessons to the apparently cheaper cost of a normal flying school.
The real advantage is you are fairly well placed to start employment directly into an airline, and be able to take advantage of higher relative seniority quicker. Eventually over the course of a career it’ll pay itself back in droves.
Air Fraser Jobs
Hi all,
Wondering if anyone could share any information about Air Fraser's hiring of pilots. Their fleet looks welcoming to green fingers (they even have a 172) but with the culture of being "GA READY" I'm wondering what the habits of the CP/Hiring Manager are. Do they want 206 time? Will they take 200 hour pilots? What's the chief pilot/Gerry like? Will they take an email with a resume?
Thanks
Wondering if anyone could share any information about Air Fraser's hiring of pilots. Their fleet looks welcoming to green fingers (they even have a 172) but with the culture of being "GA READY" I'm wondering what the habits of the CP/Hiring Manager are. Do they want 206 time? Will they take 200 hour pilots? What's the chief pilot/Gerry like? Will they take an email with a resume?
Thanks
Join Date: Apr 2019
Location: Australia
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Thats what I would respect as a business owner...

Join Date: Mar 2018
Location: Cairns
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MECIR locations for Mel and Adelaide
I have a PPL license and have recently passed my IREX exam. I wanted to travel to Melbourne or Adelaide and complete a MECIR and multi engine rating. I will be paying as I go. Would anyone be able to offer recommendations on places that offer a comprehensive IFR courses.
I have heard that FTA in Adelaide offer a very comprehensive course but I wasn't sure if doing it in a DA42 will be a disadvantage for flying twins after and going back to steam gauges.
I have heard that FTA in Adelaide offer a very comprehensive course but I wasn't sure if doing it in a DA42 will be a disadvantage for flying twins after and going back to steam gauges.
Join Date: Feb 2019
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I did my MECIR with FTA in Adelaide, can't recommend then highly enough, they are more airline focused with extensive focus on the SOP's and procedures. If you want to fly steam gauges in GA then look no further than Peter Bini flying school at YMMB. Probably the best MECIR provider at YMMB. At the end of the day it just depends on what you want, so why not chat to both and see what suits best for you!

Join Date: Mar 2018
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As I have no experience with real IFR to go from full glass back to steam does it face a disadvantage? Because I feel it would be similar cost to do it in a DA42 as apossed to a steam twin which are very common. But it would be easier to learn glass now and cheaper as not many full glass cockpits are around. Then when i need to do my review just do it in a steam gauge. But I'm worried about jumping in a barron after a DA42 and feeling overwhelmed or undertrained. Any suggestions or real life experience about these problems would be awesome?