Cabair Elstree
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 182
Likes: 0
From: a fence in the sun
I did all my professional training with Cabair, and eventually ended up instructing with them for a while.
Yes, they are expensive. The aircraft are mostly very well kept and equipped. The degree of standardisation of the flying operation would put some airlines to shame.
Why do people 'bad-mouth' Cabair so much? Because they succeed where others fail. Remember, those few instructors who have little good to say are probably on airline-sponsored schemes and have ideas above their stations.
All my then colleagues from Cabair are now airline pilots flying jets for respectable operators. So, they can probably fly OK.
In contrast, some of the little flying schools I have experience of, make second-hand car dealers look like Saints.
Yes, they are expensive. The aircraft are mostly very well kept and equipped. The degree of standardisation of the flying operation would put some airlines to shame.
Why do people 'bad-mouth' Cabair so much? Because they succeed where others fail. Remember, those few instructors who have little good to say are probably on airline-sponsored schemes and have ideas above their stations.
All my then colleagues from Cabair are now airline pilots flying jets for respectable operators. So, they can probably fly OK.
In contrast, some of the little flying schools I have experience of, make second-hand car dealers look like Saints.
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 129
Likes: 0
From: EGHF
If first impressions count, I have to say that when I was looking for a PPL flying school in the south, Cabair gave the worst reception I received from any of the schools at Bournemouth or Southampton. Maybe it was just the chap behind the reception desk having a bad day.
The other schools were all keen to discus my training, Cabair just gave me a brouchure with no discussion offered.
Maybe they don't have to try too hard and are more geared up/interested in CPL training.
The other schools were all keen to discus my training, Cabair just gave me a brouchure with no discussion offered.
Maybe they don't have to try too hard and are more geared up/interested in CPL training.
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 41
Likes: 0
From: EGLD
Thumpango - I guess anyone can be having bad day, my experience was exactly the opposite. They sent me all the literature, a video etc. When I visited the school, they spent lot's of time with me evaluating my previous flying experience (helping choose the right training package) and even showed me round a spanking new Warrior. Couldn't fault the overall enthusiam for having me as a club member and getting me that PPL. Have to say tat wasn't Elstree though.
-S
-S
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 263
Likes: 0
From: UK
NorthernSky
If CabAir are so good why BA rejected a complete sponsored ATPL recruits and why CabAir were kicked out?
There is a lot to say for and against CabAir. I used to work for them, after 6 months I have left.
If CabAir are so good why BA rejected a complete sponsored ATPL recruits and why CabAir were kicked out?
There is a lot to say for and against CabAir. I used to work for them, after 6 months I have left.
Thread Starter
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: london
Hello again,
Firstly, thanks to all of you who have replied and given their advice about Cabair. The replies seem split about 50/50 with some praising them to the heavens and others erm... less impressed!
As I said, my looking at Elstree is because it's less than 5 minutes by car from where I live and being exceptionally lazy, it seemed like a good idea. If they're a little more expensive than many other places but give very good training then I think that's still a plus.
How about a different angle. What is the social scene like at Elstree? Is it all strictly business-like or is it a bit more laid-back?
Are there any recommendations for other schools within a reasonable distance of Elstree, say within 1/2 to 3/4 hours travelling?
Thanks again.
LPlate.
Firstly, thanks to all of you who have replied and given their advice about Cabair. The replies seem split about 50/50 with some praising them to the heavens and others erm... less impressed!
As I said, my looking at Elstree is because it's less than 5 minutes by car from where I live and being exceptionally lazy, it seemed like a good idea. If they're a little more expensive than many other places but give very good training then I think that's still a plus.
How about a different angle. What is the social scene like at Elstree? Is it all strictly business-like or is it a bit more laid-back?
Are there any recommendations for other schools within a reasonable distance of Elstree, say within 1/2 to 3/4 hours travelling?
Thanks again.
LPlate.
