Air Japan (AJX) B767
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Does anyone on the inside have any news. This was an extremely active fourum, now quiet. Seems the employment has also gone quiet. (perhaps related to electrical fire on B787 
)
)
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: 日本
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To be honest guys, nothing has changed. The cargo capts are gradually getting 'checked out' to fly pax and the cago & pax FOs are flying both. They are waiting until April, when the terms and conditions of both groups become the same, and then we'll see the pax capts flying cargo and more pax flying for the cargo guys. There will, no doubt, then be a mini-revolution. The cargo guys will probably continue to fly mostly cargo and the pax pilots will fly a fair bit of cargo. Without the extra day off (and the $500/month extra for capts), there is no incentive to fly the less attractive cargo schedule and I reckon people will then make their feelings known 
The commute, especially for the Americans, has become more difficult. With the 'office' insisting on ANA flights, when available, many of the US pilots are missing the early flight and having to travel on the first of their days off. Also, when connecting in the US, the Company will no longer buy business class domestic seats because they're sold as 'First Class' and that's not what the agreement says. Never mind that many domestic airlines don't have 'Business Class' or, when they do, it's the equivalent of economy in the rest of the World; because the business standard is called 'First' they are not buying the tickets.
The merger of the two offices has certainly had a negative effect on the job. The family atmosphere has gone and it is a less friendly environment, courtesy of one or two of the office managers. The pax flying has more midnight/early morning flying. They are trying to improve the scheduling of the cargo flights to best utilise the OKA turnrounds but it is having limited success. In all, though, the flying is still pretty good compared to many places around the globe.
Of course, the strong Yen is murdering the pay and, unless you live in Yankville, the crap US $ is also murdering the take-home pay and that has certainly been a consideration for some that were thinking of joining and haven't.
Recruitment, however, continues as before. They've had a few roadshows and had some positive feedback from those but I don't think they are holding their breath too much. With a bit of luck, people will vote with their feet and we can get the salary upped, the days off increased to 11 for ALL pilots and the commuting sorted out (to how it was before the merger). A couple of pilots have left and one or two are thinking about taking their place back in the States from furlough. This may well be the catalyst we need and that will be good for all potential pilots too.
Overall then, no real change for the screening or requirements to join. Once in, it's not as good as a year ago but there is potential for it to get better, especially with the profits that ANA are now raking in
The commute, especially for the Americans, has become more difficult. With the 'office' insisting on ANA flights, when available, many of the US pilots are missing the early flight and having to travel on the first of their days off. Also, when connecting in the US, the Company will no longer buy business class domestic seats because they're sold as 'First Class' and that's not what the agreement says. Never mind that many domestic airlines don't have 'Business Class' or, when they do, it's the equivalent of economy in the rest of the World; because the business standard is called 'First' they are not buying the tickets.
The merger of the two offices has certainly had a negative effect on the job. The family atmosphere has gone and it is a less friendly environment, courtesy of one or two of the office managers. The pax flying has more midnight/early morning flying. They are trying to improve the scheduling of the cargo flights to best utilise the OKA turnrounds but it is having limited success. In all, though, the flying is still pretty good compared to many places around the globe.
Of course, the strong Yen is murdering the pay and, unless you live in Yankville, the crap US $ is also murdering the take-home pay and that has certainly been a consideration for some that were thinking of joining and haven't.
Recruitment, however, continues as before. They've had a few roadshows and had some positive feedback from those but I don't think they are holding their breath too much. With a bit of luck, people will vote with their feet and we can get the salary upped, the days off increased to 11 for ALL pilots and the commuting sorted out (to how it was before the merger). A couple of pilots have left and one or two are thinking about taking their place back in the States from furlough. This may well be the catalyst we need and that will be good for all potential pilots too.
Overall then, no real change for the screening or requirements to join. Once in, it's not as good as a year ago but there is potential for it to get better, especially with the profits that ANA are now raking in
Join Date: Dec 2006
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Fratemate
Great update to say the least.
I admire your optimism that certain pressures may make ANA have to up the ante in some areas - however logic (and history) indicates that when the T&C's in the airline game go down....they don't bounce back.
The game in Nihongo-land has changed hugely in the last 12-18 months, it's not that the airlines here have got their sh*t together or anything like that - just that JAL finally acknowledging the bleeding obvious means finally a supply of experienced, qualified pilots (any questions of their professionalism, ability or "concept of a big picture" etc etc is a very separate topic altogether) has changed the gaijin landscape for all airlines in Japan.
To finish on a funny - Skymark and A380's ???
And some say the Japanese have no sense of humour!
Cheers
galdian
Great update to say the least.
I admire your optimism that certain pressures may make ANA have to up the ante in some areas - however logic (and history) indicates that when the T&C's in the airline game go down....they don't bounce back.
The game in Nihongo-land has changed hugely in the last 12-18 months, it's not that the airlines here have got their sh*t together or anything like that - just that JAL finally acknowledging the bleeding obvious means finally a supply of experienced, qualified pilots (any questions of their professionalism, ability or "concept of a big picture" etc etc is a very separate topic altogether) has changed the gaijin landscape for all airlines in Japan.
To finish on a funny - Skymark and A380's ???
And some say the Japanese have no sense of humour!
Cheers
galdian
Latest Info From Inside?
Join Date: Nov 2008
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Hello,
I’m also closely considering Air Japan. After reading most of the ANA thread, I believe this could be one of the best contract jobs available. Seems like a great company, and an exciting place to live (even if only for a few days each month).
Fratemate, Dominican, you guys have been major contributors of good, seemingly first-hand, information and I was hoping you would be able to answer a few more questions.
1/ Given the current dynamics of aviation in Japan, JAL’s collapse and the surplus of experienced local pilots, etc., Do you think that ANA will soon be able to fulfil its recruitment needs domestically, eliminating the need for contract expats?
2/ Has ANA renewed any contracts after completion, if so, is it performance based or merely a matter of staffing requirements at the time?
3/ What is the general attitude towards the expat pilot group, I mean, is there a sense of belonging “part of the family,” or are foreign pilot’s reminded that they are temporary help?
4/ Parc states that first officers may have the chance to upgrade within the first five years. Is this the reality, and is there a company preference, or drive to promote locals ahead of foreigners?
That’s it for now. Any help you guys can give is truly appreciated. I know the interview, and training would require a full effort, so I’m trying to get all the facts first,
Again, much thanks in advance.
CF-34
I’m also closely considering Air Japan. After reading most of the ANA thread, I believe this could be one of the best contract jobs available. Seems like a great company, and an exciting place to live (even if only for a few days each month).
Fratemate, Dominican, you guys have been major contributors of good, seemingly first-hand, information and I was hoping you would be able to answer a few more questions.
1/ Given the current dynamics of aviation in Japan, JAL’s collapse and the surplus of experienced local pilots, etc., Do you think that ANA will soon be able to fulfil its recruitment needs domestically, eliminating the need for contract expats?
2/ Has ANA renewed any contracts after completion, if so, is it performance based or merely a matter of staffing requirements at the time?
3/ What is the general attitude towards the expat pilot group, I mean, is there a sense of belonging “part of the family,” or are foreign pilot’s reminded that they are temporary help?
4/ Parc states that first officers may have the chance to upgrade within the first five years. Is this the reality, and is there a company preference, or drive to promote locals ahead of foreigners?
That’s it for now. Any help you guys can give is truly appreciated. I know the interview, and training would require a full effort, so I’m trying to get all the facts first,
Again, much thanks in advance.
CF-34
1. My PERSONAL opinion is that contract pilots will be required in AJX (and others) in the future. We've already seen evidence that ANA have neither been forced by the Government to take JAL pilots, nor have the ANA unions welcomed the JAL guys with open arms. There is expansion in Japan, despite the woes of JAL. Skymark have absorbed some of the JAL pilots and the new LCCs will employ both ex-JAL and non-Japanese contract pilots. Add in the fact that we're slowly returning to an aviation world of ops-normal, where Japan does not have enough pilots to crew its aircraft, plus the retirement bulge that is starting to burst, I reckon contact pilots are here to stay. (Cue the bs of Devine Wind).
2. Yes, contracts have been renewed and, I'm reliably informed, they will continue to be so. Clearly staff numbers will be a big consideration but, seeing as they're constantly recruiting, that doesn't seem to be significant. They save 6-7 months of training a new guy by keeping an existing one and that equals money, experience in their operation and a trained bum on the line (no, I don't mean that using the American vernacular). Not all contracts have been renewed but they are few and far between and seem to have been more down to non-flying reasons, rather than merit or performance on the line.
3. With very few exceptions, the Japanese pilots that are seconded to AJX, from ANA, are great guys, enjoy working with us round-eyes and are a pleasure to fly with. I have always been shown great respect by them and I get the feeling they are grateful to me for being there and helping their company. I certainly do not get the feeling of being an outsider and it is truly a shame that AJV have been merged because our Boss there made it known (especially during his sake speeches) that we were his "AJV family". Away from the office and in town we have a good time..........I think I'll leave it there
4. There are no locals to promote ahead of foreigners. With the exception of the seconded ANA pilots (all of whom are captains), the drivers of AJX's aircraft are contract pilots and, therefore, all foreigners, even the Japanese ones that are on contract
What Parc says has certainly been true in the past. At around the 3 year point, FOs start to get assessed and around 3.5 years they do their upgrade training/checking. Things have changed a bit, as a result of the merger, and there is certainly a state of flux at the moment. It will all get sorted out pretty soon but, as you can imagine, we've merged lists and now have some pilots that are still pax or cargo only, plus those who can do both, plus the cargo terms & conditions exist as they are until April, so pax captains aren't flying cargo but they are the other way round etc etc etc. The most significant part of this is trying to sort out the merging of the FOs list. There is no seniority as such, so dates of joining, ages in the class etc must be considered so it's fair to all. Once the dust has settled they'll better be able to see what they need in terms of upgrades and things will smooth out again. All this having been said, my personal opinion is that upgrades may not happen in the first contract in the future. I say this for three reasons, in no particular order: (a)we are top heavy and this is not good for the Company salary bill, in a company that is trying to make savings (nor is it that much fun when you're seat swapping all the time....but that's not a significant reason) (b)by virtue of the shear number of FOs that have yet to upgrade and the length of the training process, I reckon if you joined now and had to wait your turn, by the time the current incumbents had finished training you'd almost be into your second contract, if not already on it (c)the Company are not so desperate for pilots at the moment, as they were a couple of years ago. With US pilots still flipping burgers etc, the Company has more choice and doesn't have to promise instant commands or commands in the near future in order to entice prospective candidates. This will, or course, change and in a good way for the future AJX FOs. The yanks will start taking back furloughed pilots, pilots will realise they'd rather get paid less flying in their home countries than commuting back and forth to Japan and AJX (and others) will have to 'up their game' again to get pilots in the aircraft. So, short answer, yes; that is the reality at the moment, so Parc aren't telling porkies BUT I think there will be a few years where the reality gets distorted and there will be a few FOs who don't get capt in their first contract.Well, that's you well and truly bored, so I'm off to colour some charts and write notes on my Jepps.......nah, just kidding
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Fratemate,
Thanks for opening the flood gates sharing all of that, great information and much appreciated! I’m just trying to determine if the position is stable, aside from occasional earthquakes, and if a career could be spent working for this company (although probably the wrong mindset for the vagabond contract pilot).
From your comments, and others on here, I gather most of you there are quite content with the conditions, company culture and QOL, which is really good to hear.
I’m going to start the online process with Parc tomorrow.
One last quick question, what is the combined fleet size now since the merger?
Cheers
Thanks for opening the flood gates sharing all of that, great information and much appreciated! I’m just trying to determine if the position is stable, aside from occasional earthquakes, and if a career could be spent working for this company (although probably the wrong mindset for the vagabond contract pilot).
From your comments, and others on here, I gather most of you there are quite content with the conditions, company culture and QOL, which is really good to hear.
I’m going to start the online process with Parc tomorrow.
One last quick question, what is the combined fleet size now since the merger?
Cheers
cf
you say "From your comments, and others on here, I gather most of you there are quite content with the conditions, company culture and QOL, which is really good to hear.
I would be hesitant to say that.
The weak USD has caused a lot of concern/pain with budgets. Our costs in Japan have risen dramatically and, those non US residents are also feeling the pain.
The merger of the operations and the future schedules are a cause for concern as far as fatigue management goes.
Good luck with your decision
you say "From your comments, and others on here, I gather most of you there are quite content with the conditions, company culture and QOL, which is really good to hear.
I would be hesitant to say that.
The weak USD has caused a lot of concern/pain with budgets. Our costs in Japan have risen dramatically and, those non US residents are also feeling the pain.
The merger of the operations and the future schedules are a cause for concern as far as fatigue management goes.
Good luck with your decision
Give or take 8 to 10 months for the training, depending on type rating held and position (Cap/F/O)
During that time, expect to be able to return home once for around 3 weeks. Some have had more trips home during this time but that depends on circumstances so don't count on it.
During that time, expect to be able to return home once for around 3 weeks. Some have had more trips home during this time but that depends on circumstances so don't count on it.
Join Date: Jan 2006
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I am taking my final check flight tonight to Hong Kong. I started on March 15th so it has been just over 8 months. I am an F/O who was non type rated. I was in Tokyo from March until September and went home for 3 weeks at that time. Been here in Narita since October 6th and go home November 28th. It has been a long, drawn out process.
I hope this info helps.
I hope this info helps.
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Day to Day Stuff
If any of you guys who are currently on contract to Air Japan has the time to answer a couple of questions I have about your working life there, I'd be grateful...
I've asked what you do to keep a JAR licence current. The answer was 'That's your own business..." So are you able to line-up a trainer & simulator to do an LPC without too much hassle (I'm UK based by the way).
What is the cost of accommodation in Japan? Given that AJX do not pay for accommodation costs unless you're on a trip and that you're not there half the time, is it practical or affordable to rent a flat / studio / room?
I am a candidate for screening next month & would appreciate any advice.
Thanks a lot.
I've asked what you do to keep a JAR licence current. The answer was 'That's your own business..." So are you able to line-up a trainer & simulator to do an LPC without too much hassle (I'm UK based by the way).
What is the cost of accommodation in Japan? Given that AJX do not pay for accommodation costs unless you're on a trip and that you're not there half the time, is it practical or affordable to rent a flat / studio / room?
I am a candidate for screening next month & would appreciate any advice.
Thanks a lot.
Join Date: Nov 2008
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I've asked what you do to keep a JAR licence current. The answer was 'That's your own business..." So are you able to line-up a trainer & simulator to do an LPC without too much hassle (I'm UK based by the way).
What is the cost of accommodation in Japan? Given that AJX do not pay for accommodation costs unless you're on a trip and that you're not there half the time, is it practical or affordable to rent a flat / studio / room?
Horses for courses but it can and is done.
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For vision, I use glasses, and have them on my medical class 1.
I did the ANA medical in london, and passed... The ophamology is about 90 mins in itself, and they didn't seem to have a problem with glasses.
I did the ANA medical in london, and passed... The ophamology is about 90 mins in itself, and they didn't seem to have a problem with glasses.
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Thanks a lot Frate Mate. There's a lot to take into consideration when weighing-up the deal on offer & trying to decide whether you're going to be better off moving or sticking... As you say 'horses for courses'. I'm in a bit of a 'Flat Earth Society' position right now, which doesn't inspire me that much in itself. I hope that a move to Asia will help me fulfill my plans for global domination somewhat quicker.
If you're around Tokyo in late January when I'm supposed to be there for screening perhaps I can buy an Asahi & two straws (maybe not - depends on the exchange rate) & introduce myself...
If you're around Tokyo in late January when I'm supposed to be there for screening perhaps I can buy an Asahi & two straws (maybe not - depends on the exchange rate) & introduce myself...
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I'm in a bit of a 'Flat Earth Society' position right now
will help me fulfill my plans for global domination somewhat quicker.
perhaps I can buy an Asahi & two straws
Classics!!!
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Jumper on the Rooftop!
I don't really know if it's the 'done thing' on this forum, but I really need to talk to someone who's doing this job already & is preferably UK based.
I came out to Tokyo at the end of January for the selection. At that time the ANA people found out a lot about me, but I didn't really have the chance to ask very much myself. I'm now waiting to hear in the next three weeks whether I've passed the medical check, before I know if a job offer is on its way.
The impression I formed is that AJX is a happy ship generally, where the company & colleagues treat each other with respect. The flying is interesting & varied. The fleet is young, well equipped, maintained & training standards high. So working life sounds satisfying. That's how you want to be thinking before you join a new company I suppose. There are still outstanding queries for me, e.g. commuting, medical checks, ground training, manuals, administration, flying hours, duty & rest periods, staff travel discounts, right-hand seat flying for captains, etc.
If there's anyone out there who is prepared to counsel a potential joiner about the life, perks & pitfalls of contracting for AJX, I'd really appreciate a chat right now. If a job offer arrives I'll obviously need to make my mind up quickly so am trying to think about it from all angles before that happens.
If you can help, please send me a private message here & I'll get back to you.
Cheers.
I came out to Tokyo at the end of January for the selection. At that time the ANA people found out a lot about me, but I didn't really have the chance to ask very much myself. I'm now waiting to hear in the next three weeks whether I've passed the medical check, before I know if a job offer is on its way.
The impression I formed is that AJX is a happy ship generally, where the company & colleagues treat each other with respect. The flying is interesting & varied. The fleet is young, well equipped, maintained & training standards high. So working life sounds satisfying. That's how you want to be thinking before you join a new company I suppose. There are still outstanding queries for me, e.g. commuting, medical checks, ground training, manuals, administration, flying hours, duty & rest periods, staff travel discounts, right-hand seat flying for captains, etc.
If there's anyone out there who is prepared to counsel a potential joiner about the life, perks & pitfalls of contracting for AJX, I'd really appreciate a chat right now. If a job offer arrives I'll obviously need to make my mind up quickly so am trying to think about it from all angles before that happens.
If you can help, please send me a private message here & I'll get back to you.
Cheers.