Expert: D. Norkus - 4/2/2004

Question
Hi Dottie.

I am currently undertaking the Private Pilots Licence in Britain and would hopefully be looking at potential employment as a pilot. After taking the PPL and then moving onto Commercial Licence, would an ailine consider me for employment from just these qualifications and my age currently at 38. I am in good health, eyesight etc. I just need to know if airlines would consider a pilot from private training as if not then it would not be worth me moving forward and laying out the costs.

Many thanks
Tim  

Answer
Tim

Considering you live in the UK , I can't comment on careers/qualifications flying in Europe as I live and fly in the USA. The training environment and airline hiring outside the U.S. is markedly different! Here training is much more affordable, so airlines expect pilots to apply with very high flight time qualifications. This is in contrast to many European airlines 'cadet' programs where they take very low or no flight time applicants and train them to fly as airline pilots.

You need to visit this predominantly British & European pilot message forum for an anwser to your question:


The Professional Pilots Rumour Network-
www.pprune.org

You can get anwsers there from pilots in the business in your area of the world. Their message boards are also searchable and I am sure you will find inquiries similar to your own already posted there. There are many forums on the boards. Perhaps the 'wannabes' section will be a good place to start.

Good Luck
Dot