Take a break???

[RowleyUK]

I have just passed the 14 ATPLs and am now pondering whether to take a break and take advantage of the 3 year time period I have in which to get the CPL/IR. This would be a good idea financially and I have no problem with waiting to get that cherished job. On the other hand, will this be frowned upon by airlines?

I believe there are so few jobs out there at the moment that is the only real option!! Not only that, I have just turned 23 and so IMHO I have time on my side. I will still be flying but I won’t be making any expensive commitments until I know the job market is on the up!

I have put quite alot of thought into this and believe i am doing the right thing in the long term!

What do you think?

Has anybody else taken a break like this?

[Token Bird]

You could consider getting your CPL and an instructor rating (finances permitting) and instructing in the interim, hence when the market does an upturn, you will be current and will have some experience. You can then do your IR, which will not be as challenging with all your instruction experience and then you will be more attractive to the airlines.

I believe you are right to wait a while. There are very few jobs out there and lots of pilots looking, many of whom will be a lot more experienced than you,

TB

[Wee Weasley Welshman]

A pause will do you no harm in terms of employability. I think it might well be a wise move.

It would be worth doing your CPL and IR close together as the former warms you up for the latter. Do them preferably at the same airfield with the same school thereby gaining local area knowledge for the IRT.

Good luck,

WWW