Ryanair Direct Entry Captains

[gonsgogga]

I have been following the Ryanair recruitment page for DE Captains, and would appreciate some informed input about any flexibility on the requirement for 500 hours on B733-9 series.

I exceed all the other requirements by a decent margin. Sure, I suppose its still case of supply and demand (how many Excel pilots are still out of work?), but is it worth me giving it a try anyway?

Informed opinions appreciated.

[ltnmad]

Hello,

How many hours DO you have on the 737? I think a flexibility margin of - 70-100 hours is acceptable for most airlines.

Thanks,
Dave

[ItsAjob]

The only flexibility they are looking for is your flexible friend!

[gonsgogga]

Some people may remember something known as a 737 original (-200). Well I have flown that for about 850 hours (SP177 A/P, not that is really worth all that much)....

As far as my flexible friend goes, well thats personal. Shes still in bed.

[IrishJetdriver]

Don't really know but it must be worth a shot. Ryanair operated to-200 for years so they know where you're coming from. Of course they may well play exactly by the rules in this market but it's still worth a go. You can of course expect to pay for the conversion as you don't have it on your licence.

[gonsgogga]

Thanks for the replies guys. There is a link (https://frd.ie/pilot/pilot.html) on the Ryanair website and it refers to B737 classic, EFIS and NG but not to the “original”. I know it’s pretty much obsolete, but it did use to be known as the classic – irrelevant now it seems.

I will complete the form, but its unfortunate there is no provision for -200 experience and no space for comments either.

Like for so many nowadays, it’s really frustrating to be a reasonably experienced pilot (8500 hours), medium jet commands, sim instructor, TRI and just banging my head against a brick wall. (Note to self: buy Polyfiller today)

By the way, did I mention that I’m also in the prime of my life? Hmmm…

[ask26]

Slightly off thread but looking at F/O's, if you have 1000hours on the 737, 1500TT would you still have to do the type-rating again, as is seems anything other than a cadet is discounted.

[captjns]

I know it can be tough Gonsgogga. Hang in there... stay focused and don't give up. I understandt that FR is purchasing a large number of Boeings. Someone has to fly them.

As an alternative, there are DEC positions in Asia you can look at too.

[JimbosJet]

That accept B732 Captains on their shiny NGs? If you find some, please pm me!

[gonsgogga]

I echo Jimbo's sentiments - they all want 500hrs on type.

I was on the Job Centre website yesterday. I don't even qualify for some van driving positions:

"....previous multi-drop experience essential..."

[jb5000]

I'd say a 4 sector day counts as multi-drop experience??

[LAX]

White van man to white (blue and gold) plane man. Judging by white van mans driving OFDM is obviously not on board!!

Best thing to do with 200 time is apply and see what happens. Supply and demand. Right now, since unfreezing the uk (me thinks mainly for promotions) lots of command upgrades running through the system now. As normal, despite the need for captains, those that don't show signs of meeting the required std are quickly shown the axe! At the current rate those eligiable for promotion will soon run out, particularly with flight hours reducing in the winter.

Latest bases on offer appear to be brs, lpl, pik, mad and any god forsaken island in italy.

LOL