PPRuNe Forums - Career opportunities with the combined FAA/JAA CPL

Hi everyone,

Forewords: I'm an aerospace engineer (29 yo) currently working for a leading aerospace corporation. I'm not experienced on what it is required to be on the other side of cockpit though.

I'm evaluating the possibility to integrate my engineering background with this CPL course at the Bristow academy, paying of my own money (if I don't find a sponsorship).

Combined FAA/JAA - Bristow Academy Inc - Helicopter Flight Training

My questions are:

1) what do I need IN ADDITION to this CPL to be able to work in Europe on twin-turbine class helicopters? (ie. AW-139)

2) I realize there is a crisis going on out there. what are the realistic chances to fing a job as a pilot in the current job market after the CPL license? In this case, what is a "pay-back" period to recover the CPL investment?

3) are you guys aware of other similar programs, beside the Bristow one?

Cheers!