Visual Job Market UK.
 

Hi All,

I’m interested in opinions on the visual ops job market in England. I’ve not flown for nearly 5 years but I’d like to return to flying I’m just not sure if it’s worth taking a punt and renewing a type rating.

Experience wise I’ve flown 8.5k hours PIC 1/2 of which is twin time. Gas pipeline, powerline, filming, USL and hoisting operations.

I was instrumental rated but I’m not really interested in renewing my IR if I’m honest.

Thanks in advance, TTTE.

If you renewed the IR, offshore are recruiting. With your previous, there might even be a deal to done with them renewing it.

Very good point - a chat last week with a good friend at another offshore operator leads me to believe there are good deals to be done (at his company at least) for anyone with a bit of experience. Good luck whatever you go for :)

Whereabouts are you based, TTTE, and would you be willing to move for work?

PDG and GB Helicopters are 2 operators who spring to mind who deal with a lot of utility work. However, for flexibility, I imagine that they would both prefer an IR’d pilot, rather than a purely VFR one.

Hi I’m in Worcestershire but I’d relocate most places in England.

I don’t really want to head back up to Scotland, I actually lived there for 10 years which was good I also flew for PDG in the past.

My reason for not wanting to renew the IR is cost v risk if I don’t get work at the end of it.

Thanks guys, I intend to do my research and not rush into anything yet, I also intend to call some old contacts but I’m interested in hearing other opinions here 👍

Also Skyhook Helicopters in Scotland. Don’t know if they are hiring but may be worth a try.
R.

I suspect that you will be more likely to get work WITH an IR, than without.

Thanks Bravo.