I spoke to a chap who had been through the sponsorship programme from 2007. Apparently Bond are quite satisfied with the results and would not be averse to doing it again. However, he did say that as far as he knows there are currently no plans.

Needless to say, a terrific scheme and Bond should be commended for this. It would be great to see another run.

Indeed it would. Cheers B.A!

Since the arrival of EASA's new syllabi, OAA (OAT in days gone by) no longer offer Helicopter training.

I'm sure they'd train up a few of their ground instructors if someone like Bond were to come along and ask though.

It would be a brilliant opportunity for any aspiring pilot, I just can't imagine it happening right now though. With times being so tight for individuals and corporations alike, it will usually be the individuals who have to speculate the funds for their training.

Perhaps in a few years time (drifts off to a dreamy world where everyone gets what they want :zzz:).

Looks like it is down to our own pockets then. I had set a goal to get my CPL completed before I was 30. At the minute it isn't looking to likely now. Now 25, I had to go back to College last year. Studying Engineering so by the time I finish my Studies I will be 29 with a mountain of funding to pay back when I get a Job. A Helicopter Flying Career is looking slim at the minute.

SunderlandMatt, OAA's only involvement in the Bond Sponsorship was selection, training was carried out at the Bristow Academy (ATPL theory and CPL course) and Bond used their own training facility for the IR (using the EC135). Well over £100k worth of training I would imagine.

@ B.A.B,

Ah, didn't know that. OAA seem to run a tight ship with regard to their selection. I had heard of them offering it out to other fixed wing companies but thought they might had more of a hand in the training. Clearly not however.

The scheme as it was, sounds excellent. Bravo to those lucky few who joined the industry with a golden hello.

Green eyes.

Don't be too green.

Shiny, yes......golden, no.

They will almost certainly be on a specific contract that adjusts their T&Cs relative to their peers. Between their initial contribution and that adjustment, the end result is probably close to the same thing.

There ain't no such thing as a free lunch in life...

Highly commendable of Bond to do such a scheme, especially when it was done at a time when they weren't growing as fast as they seem to be now. It seems like an effective way of sourcing good people without one particular party being exposed to extremely high training costs. I would be happy to see all 3 majors adopt the same strategy as standard. The current method of forcing individuals to make a massive outlay, often followed by a long & stressful wait for a job is not healthy for employer or potential employee.

Plenty of free lunches on those offshore platforms though :p

...to perk you up. Did I say perk?