Free flight training

[mission_aviation]

This only applies to U.S. residents only.

I'm trying to make some sense about those of you who are applying for this opportunity to live in the MIDDLE EAST for 8 YEARS and be OWNED by this company. Why would you fellas want to put yourselfs in this situation when you can just join military aviation. It seems that most of you all have no problem making a commitment for almost a DECADE to a foreign country when you can make the same commitment to the US Armed Forces for less and still get the same training, plus you get to live in the UNITED STATES.

Don't get me wrong, this is a good opportunity, but being obligated for 8 YEARS is an awful long time to give to a middle eastern nation most of you know nothing about. What if you fellas get yourselves into this situation and it dosen't pan out for you. I'm very sure that this company is just not going to let you go home after spending so much money in your training just because your home sick or have a problem adjusting to the culture.

I'm not judging anyone who is considering this, I just would like know why some of you would go overseas to pursue something that you could get here in the USA and get bonus money in the military. Obviously most of you have no problem making a long term commitment to doing something as exciting as aviation. I'm not a recruiter either!

[fly8slep]

Originally Posted by mission_aviation

This only applies to U.S. residents only.

I'm trying to make some sense about those of you who are applying for this opportunity to live in the MIDDLE EAST for 8 YEARS and be OWNED by this company. Why would you fellas want to put yourselfs in this situation when you can just join military aviation. It seems that most of you all have no problem making a commitment for almost a DECADE to a foreign country when you can make the same commitment to the US Armed Forces for less and still get the same training, plus you get to live in the UNITED STATES.

Don't get me wrong, this is a good opportunity, but being obligated for 8 YEARS is an awful long time to give to a middle eastern nation most of you know nothing about. What if you fellas get yourselves into this situation and it dosen't pan out for you. I'm very sure that this company is just not going to let you go home after spending so much money in your training just because your home sick or have a problem adjusting to the culture.

I'm not judging anyone who is considering this, I just would like know why some of you would go overseas to pursue something that you could get here in the USA and get bonus money in the military. Obviously most of you have no problem making a long term commitment to doing something as exciting as aviation. I'm not a recruiter either!

I doubt they'll get many from the U.S because flight training is a lot cheaper here. Other parts of the world this may be the only way they can get their foot in the door of a major airline. Still it's all smoke and mirrors, I've heard that Etihad is definitely one of the worst airlines right now as far as work rules and employee/company relations. And yes 8 years even 5 years is a long time to be "stuck" at a company you don't want to fly in if it eventually doesn't appeal to you anymore.

[mission_aviation]

I agree. I lived in Germany, for over two years and did some training out there. Holy smokes is it expensive to fly. Luckly, I was stationed there and I was with a flying club. But living in another country was far from easy. The culture alone was tough adjust to. I knew alot of young guys who couldn't adjust to living overseas and ended up getting kicked out of the military because of it. I wonder though, What if guys can't adjust to living overseas for 8 years and want to break the commitment. What will this airline do then, hold them hostage or let people go home? I know that in the military, if you left without consent, you would be AWOL and could end up in prison. Do people really want to put themselves in this situation because they don't want to make an investment in a flight education. They want to be cheap and instead but be owned by a middle eastern airline? Thats brings up another question. In most middle eastern countries, women are beneath men. So where does that leave women for this opportunity?

Yes, training is expensive, but loans will be paid off and eventually you will move up in your flight career. 8 years is a very very long time and alot can change in that time. Hell, I was in the military for almost 4 and alot changed within that time. Do yourselves a favor and really thing about what you want to get yourselves into before considering this.

Just my two cents.

[stuckingfk]

Originally Posted by mission_aviation

This only applies to U.S. residents only.

I'm trying to make some sense about those of you who are applying for this opportunity to live in the MIDDLE EAST for 8 YEARS and be OWNED by this company. Why would you fellas want to put yourselfs in this situation when you can just join military aviation. It seems that most of you all have no problem making a commitment for almost a DECADE to a foreign country when you can make the same commitment to the US Armed Forces for less and still get the same training, plus you get to live in the UNITED STATES.

Don't get me wrong, this is a good opportunity, but being obligated for 8 YEARS is an awful long time to give to a middle eastern nation most of you know nothing about. What if you fellas get yourselves into this situation and it dosen't pan out for you. I'm very sure that this company is just not going to let you go home after spending so much money in your training just because your home sick or have a problem adjusting to the culture.

I'm not judging anyone who is considering this, I just would like know why some of you would go overseas to pursue something that you could get here in the USA and get bonus money in the military. Obviously most of you have no problem making a long term commitment to doing something as exciting as aviation. I'm not a recruiter either!

Last time I checked, it wasn't "that easy" to join the military and then get selected for a pilot slot.

[Ian J]

Originally Posted by mission_aviation

This only applies to U.S. residents only.

I'm trying to make some sense about those of you who are applying for this opportunity to live in the MIDDLE EAST for 8 YEARS and be OWNED by this company. Why would you fellas want to put yourselfs in this situation when you can just join military aviation. It seems that most of you all have no problem making a commitment for almost a DECADE to a foreign country when you can make the same commitment to the US Armed Forces for less and still get the same training, plus you get to live in the UNITED STATES.

Been in the military lately? You might have a US address but you're also gonna have an APO address most of the time, too. Either route, you're going to spend a lot of time in the middle east. Now, do you want to live in a trailer in a combat zone, or in a modern city?

I'm not judging anyone who is considering this, I just would like know why some of you would go overseas to pursue something that you could get here in the USA and get bonus money in the military. Obviously most of you have no problem making a long term commitment to doing something as exciting as aviation. I'm not a recruiter either!

Not that I think military service is a bad thing, but you know it's not that easy, right? Not just ANYONE can be a military aviator. The entry requirements are pretty stiff.

This is statement is kind of a broken record around here, but it is still true: DO NOT join the military just to fly.

[fly8slep]

Originally Posted by stuckingfk

Last time I checked, it wasn't "that easy" to join the military and then get selected for a pilot slot.

This topic has nothing to do with joining the military. Joining a Etihad vs. the military is totally different....

[Ian J]

Originally Posted by fly8slep

This topic has nothing to do with joining the military. Joining a Etihad vs. the military is totally different....

Agreed, but "mission_aviation" brought it up.

[stuckingfk]

Originally Posted by fly8slep

This topic has nothing to do with joining the military. Joining a Etihad vs. the military is totally different....

I have a novel idea; how about we read before we write!!!

[mission_aviation]

Originally Posted by stuckingfk

Last time I checked, it wasn't "that easy" to join the military and then get selected for a pilot slot.

Its not easy. I never said it was. But does success comes from hardwork and determination. If someone is going to spend alot of time jumping through hoops to get this opportunity, because I'm sure that there is tons of paperwork to do changes such as citizenships on both sides of the pond, then why not just spend the same if not less to time to TRY the military route first. Either way both can say "You can't fly for us."

By the way, I know a few people that have gotten selected to fly. It just depends what branch you get into.

[mission_aviation]

Originally Posted by Ian J

Been in the military lately? You might have a US address but you're also gonna have an APO address most of the time, too. Either route, you're going to spend a lot of time in the middle east. Now, do you want to live in a trailer in a combat zone, or in a modern city?

I'm currently active duty. I had an APO address and lived OCONUS too. The difference is yeah you will get deployed, but it will only be one year at a time.

Not that I think military service is a bad thing, but you know it's not that easy, right? Not just ANYONE can be a military aviator. The entry requirements are pretty stiff.

Totally agree. Again I know its not easy. Everybody can't be a pilot period. Do you think Eithiad's requirements are going to be less stiff?

This is statement is kind of a broken record around here, but it is still true: DO NOT join the military just to fly.

[mission_aviation]

Originally Posted by fly8slep

This topic has nothing to do with joining the military. Joining a Etihad vs. the military is totally different....

[fly8slep]

Originally Posted by stuckingfk

I have a novel idea; how about we read before we write!!!

That's the idea;

[typhoonpilot]

Originally Posted by fly8slep

typhoonpilot, how is that 737/A320 EK backed operation coming along in Dubai? Have they decided on the fleet and the airline theme yet? That could be a great alternative if living in Dubai would be more preferable.

No news yet.

I've heard that Etihad is definitely one of the worst airlines right now as far as work rules and employee/company relations. And yes 8 years even 5 years is a long time to be "stuck" at a company you don't want to fly in if it eventually doesn't appeal to you anymore.

Stop reading PPrune. It isn't as well run as EK and is having growing pains, but it isn't that bad. One really needs to compare the situation at EY with some carriers in the USA. A growing airline with deep pockets versus shrinking airlines about to go into liquidation.

There is some merit to the idea of going into the military versus joining a cadet program. That said, no guarantee that you'll get into the military or get a flying position.


Typhoonpilot

[adsgofast]

Originally Posted by typhoonpilot

No news yet.



Stop reading PPrune. It isn't as well run as EK and is having growing pains, but it isn't that bad. One really needs to compare the situation at EY with some carriers in the USA. A growing airline with deep pockets versus shrinking airlines about to go into liquidation.

There is some merit to the idea of going into the military versus joining a cadet program. That said, no guarantee that you'll get into the military or get a flying position.


Typhoonpilot

Thanks for that reply, I have applied to the Etihad scheme and have been reading PPrune, a few posts on there about how bad it is, but I think that's just people trying to get less folks to apply!


As already stated, this is a good offer, ok 8 years of your life, but in that 8 years you get an ATPL, maybe captain, a great tax free salary, free housing, travel the world, get free business class tickets with Etihad, learn a whole new culture and quite possible pick up some Arabic, you get to meet new people from all over the world, and most importantly, you get to fly!!

I am 20 years old, a British citizen and a Police Officer, no kids, no Mrs, so this is a great opportunity for me

[adsgofast]

This might be of interest to people that have applied, the new housing block built by Etihad for it's staff, http://www.uaepropertytrends.com/ptr...ad?thread=2741

Sounds stunning, this deal gets better

[fly8slep]

Originally Posted by adsgofast

a few posts on there about how bad it is, but I think that's just people trying to get less folks to apply!

Yea that must be it... So they could have all of the 12 slots to themselves. And it also makes sense for understaffed pilots to turn away relief.

[aqeeliqb9@hotmail.co.uk]

Originally Posted by adsgofast

Thanks for that reply, I have applied to the Etihad scheme and have been reading PPrune, a few posts on there about how bad it is, but I think that's just people trying to get less folks to apply!


As already stated, this is a good offer, ok 8 years of your life, but in that 8 years you get an ATPL, maybe captain, a great tax free salary, free housing, travel the world, get free business class tickets with Etihad, learn a whole new culture and quite possible pick up some Arabic, you get to meet new people from all over the world, and most importantly, you get to fly!!

I am 20 years old, a British citizen and a Police Officer, no kids, no Mrs, so this is a great opportunity for me

yes mate ...i agree this is a fantastic oppurtunity ..first time there has been a airline offering this oppurtunity for so many people around the world who never got the oppurtunity to go for pilot.... i applying after my degree ....
to everyone out there who has applied ...good luck ...may u all succeed ...although there are only 12 places they offering ... i hope it more though

[Machiavelli]

Hey there!

Sorry, to bring it up again, but not to join the military discussion here... My opinion: If you do the program with Lufthansa they make you pay back 40.000 EUR, so nothing is for free... Just because its in the Middle East and they call it a scheme doesn't necessarily mean they re in it to rip you off...

Just trying to find out if anybody actually heard back from them or had an interview of some sort?
I'm curious if there is anyone who can tell me anything about the actual program? Or the time frame as far as application procedures, etc.

Once again, Thanks!

[PGT]

I'm not expecting a call or anything but I'll apply tonight.


edit:
just did some research and it looks like it was created to get some of the big names' family into the company. 3000 & up applicants. No word yet, doesn't look like it's organized very well. I'm thinking about filing an app. for the heck of it but don't really want my information out for nothing.

[fly8slep]

From another foreign pilot forum a few from EY who have friends working in management says not only are the 12 slots filled but as of right now only UAE nationals and friends/kids of employers get consideration for the cadet program. Someone said it's a hoax developed by bad management, go figure they should be giving out thanks but no thanks notices soon for others who applied.

[PGT]

I heard 2 classes, 1 for UAE nationals and 1 for everyone else. However, "everyone else" is for family of higher-ups and family of EK.

[mission_aviation]

Interesting to see that as soon as the reality sets in, nobody has nothing else to say. Look fellas, call it a hoax, call it high hopes, you shouldn't be depending on a Middle Eastern country to get you into the cockpit. Even if they call it free, theres always a price to pay. I've been offered lots of money to stay in the military. But to me, time is more precious than money. Everybody focuses too much on the possible good things and that ends up clouding judgement on the possible bad things.

What I would suggest is to make the investment in training. The airline is only growing and going to need alot of pilots in the near future. If you want to fly for them, get the mins. and then apply. You will be making good money to pay back your investment and you wont' be committed to anyone for so long. Goodluck to you all!

[aqeeliqb9@hotmail.co.uk]

Originally Posted by mission_aviation

Interesting to see that as soon as the reality sets in, nobody has nothing else to say. Look fellas, call it a hoax, call it high hopes, you shouldn't be depending on a Middle Eastern country to get you into the cockpit. Even if they call it free, theres always a price to pay. I've been offered lots of money to stay in the military. But to me, time is more precious than money. Everybody focuses too much on the possible good things and that ends up clouding judgement on the possible bad things.

What I would suggest is to make the investment in training. The airline is only growing and going to need alot of pilots in the near future. If you want to fly for them, get the mins. and then apply. You will be making good money to pay back your investment and you wont' be committed to anyone for so long. Goodluck to you all!

thanks for the advice mate !!! i just wanted to ask what u mean by ''get the mins''' ...because i am deciding to apply after two year when i get my degree..
once again thanks for the advice ...im sure u have already helped many wanna be pilots like me plan more prepared ahead

[bap327]

Oh well, maybe next time:

Applied date: 28/03/2008


Please be advised your application has been reviewed but has not been shortlisted on 29/5/2008. Please feel free to apply for other opportunities that are a suitable match with your skills and experience.

[fly8slep]

Originally Posted by aqeeliqb9@hotmail.co.uk

what u mean by ''get the mins''' ...because i am deciding to apply after two year when i get my degree..
d

Mins, as in minimum experience. Flight hours, lots and lots of flight hours, preferably captain time.