China Commuting job.

[ceightoz]

Hello Fellow Pilots.

I need someone’s help on commuting roster.

Situation is getting worse on my current company and I guess I should change my ship before too late.
I’m thinking about……applying china job ( Guangzhou or Shanghai ).
Many agencies are advertizing pilot can apply for foreign base on US or Europe.

If there is anybody in China, please give me some light on life of commuting job.

I wonder what it looks like on roster.
How many days can you stay with your family in average?
Is the roster looks same as plain roster as you got working on home base except company base is substituted by your foreign local base?
Is there any restriction or tricky part like working permit or green card on foreign base country?

It may looks like trivial matter but….. I’m worrying about my young kids.

I’ll appreciate for your help and kind information on commuting contract.

With Best Regard.

From weird wicked wonderland on end of the world.

[volare_737]

There are many facts to consider, such as family, kids, age, employed or unemployed at the moment and so forth.
I have been doing the commuting thing for 4 years now and have to honestly say its not for me. Had to do it as there was no other option for me at the time. Going back home now for a normal job and must say I cant wait.
On the other hand I know many who are very happy in the contract world and really enjoy it !!!!!
So it really depends on you and your situation !!!!
I have realised that all the money and shiny aircraft does not make up to being with family, kids and friends.
Good luck !!!!!

[WYOMINGPILOT]

Quote"Situation is getting worse on my current company and I guess I should change my ship before too late.
I’m thinking about……applying china job ( Guangzhou or Shanghai ).
Many agencies are advertizing pilot can apply for foreign base on US or Europe.If there is anybody in China, please give me some light on life of commuting job.I wonder what it looks like on roster.
How many days can you stay with your family in average?
Is the roster looks same as plain roster as you got working on home base except company base is substituted by your foreign local base?
Is there any restriction or tricky part like working permit or green card on foreign base country"? Quote

I recommend you keep your current job unless it has no future as it is in your home country. These foreign bases currently being advertised are not truly foreign bases. The contracts are too new to offer any long term feedback. The jury is still out on them so don't accept one thinking you will be based for example in Amsterdam flying turns from AMS. Mostly pilots are flying Intra Asian trips and domestic China flying currently from Guanzhou. This could change but too many unknowns at this point. A typical A-320 or B-737 contract in China is 6 weeks on and 16 days off. While working it is typically 4 days on and 2 days off. Most guys who commute get burned out quickly with flying 900+ hours per year and traveling 8+ time zones every 6 weeks back and forth from home to work. If your willing to move your family here then life is much better. You will be home much more with family and enjoy life much better. It all depends on your personal family situation. There are both commuting and non-commuting contracts offered and many pilots remain in Asia and travel or just relax with family on the commuting contract for the extra days off. If you choose to make more money then the non-commuting contract might be an option. The company will take care of all required work permits and visas for you.

[ceightoz]

Thank you very much.

Thanks a lot, Volare 737 and WYOMINGPILOT.

Your kind advice will help me think a lot of other aspects for me and my family.
I appreciate for your advice.

Happy flight and happy landings.