Training positions with Airbus

[Dr Esteban]

Hello all,

I am currently looking at training positions (SFI/SFE/TRI/TRE) with Airbus at their training facility in Toulouse.

I would really appreciate any info on T&Cs, rosters, lifestyle, amount of foreign travel, career progression, etc.

Many thanks.

Doc

[Quintic]

A bit out of date but for what it is worth. Going to France on holiday is very different from living there, particularly for family. Try it before you commit to a family move, some do not last. As a TRE you will spend at least half the year away, simulators or flying, on every continent. If you are offered an ‘office’ job then less but most UK TREs when I was there tried to spend as little time at Airbus in TLS as possible. Toulouse is a large city that has outgrown its infrastructure, so all the usual problems.
The flying is interesting and varied with every flight a training flight and can be rather demanding. You may feel like you are on single pilot ops. at times, and may even wish you were! You will see many nationalities and cultures but will often be on your own with little support. Hotels when away are the best and long haul flights business class. No allowances but everything is paid for whilst away.
Salary was equivalent to at least a senior TRE with a UK charter airline, with take- home slightly better. Benefits and pension much better and you used to get a company car of your choice. When in TLS be prepared to work a lot of weekends and unsocial hours in the simulator. Vacation, PHOL and days off for time away are generous. Roster can be very unstable both when in TLS and when away.
I would not have missed working for Airbus as it suited my temperament and some of the flying was truly an adventure. However, visit and talk to those doing the job today.
There are also contract positions where you could stay in UK and earn a years salary in six one month long detachments. Not so easy to find an opening though and of course no benefits.
Best of luck.

[wiggy]

Can't comment on the Airbus deal but I can back up a couple of Quintic's comments

Going to France on holiday is very different from living there, particularly for family

Very much this, particularly if you are a Brit thinking of making the move, especially with family in tow, and especially in view of probable events in the near future (think the B word and things like healthcare for family, etc) - much due diligence needed.

Toulouse is a large city that has outgrown its infrastructure, so all the usual problems.

Yep, something very much worth bearing in mind if you get as far as accommodation hunting. The Metro/Tram have improved things slightly in town itself over the last 5-10 years but access to Blagnac/Colomiers can still be a major PITA at peak hours unless you live to the west of the city.

Good Luck...