2nd language when looking for that elusive first job?
 

I know the whole "that elusive first job" and "what can I do to set myself out from the crowd" thing has been done to death on here, and I have no intention of starting one of these all over again, but I was rather curious as to whether there are any advantages (if any) for a pilot setting out looking for a new job if they knew a second (or third) language, especially languages like German, Chinese or Japanese seeing that they would make a decent portion of tourists in Australia.

Obviously I'm talking about being fluent in a language, not just a matter of getting an 'A' in year 10 because you could count to 20 and know how to introduce yourself and ask where the toilet is. :p

It's usually something that's not mentioned in the "going up north" threads, so had me wondering.

WBB

May I suggest the Miriwoong, Walmajarri or Gajirrawoong dialects if considering going north.

More seriously - most of the Euros speak very good English, so possibly an Asian language would make more sense if you are determined to go down that route (of course they tend to be the more difficult languages to learn), but I doubt if it would make much difference to employment prospects except in a very, very small number of instances .

In 43 years in the Industry and being fluent in 2 additional languages other than english I can tell you that appart from a novelty value on the odd occassion the only language you need is English.

Level 6 certification is considered essential in RPT International Operations..but it is fun sometimes to evesdrop on foreign tourists conversations.

I worked as a Japanese - English translator for 6 years before getting into flying. The language has not helped my aviation career at all, but employers sometimes do like people with a bit of life experience.

Considered essential by whom?

A large percentage of pilots in Asia would be grounded if that was the case.

Ahh yes Whatsit, I agree they ought, however, I am equally sure that their Senior Check Captains have signed several hundred of their closest mates out as at least Level 7 or 8!! ( . . . and yes I know 6 is as high as it goes).:}

Being able to understand and translate all the Bull S%#t that many aviation peolpe are fluent in will help heaps.

Its unnecessary. Ask any flying school and they will tell you you will be snapped up by a host of operators all competing for your skills with lucrative pay offers before the ink drys on your new CPL licence. All due to the unending pilot shortage.;)