Hi everyone, have been following the pilot training industry developments for the past 20 years.
My passion is to support pilots and aspiring pilots
If anyone has any questions. Happy to answer them
Hi James, not sure if you’re still available for questions.
I’ve had the dream of being a pilot since 16 (now 32) but had previously put the dream aside due to lack of money and a rather risk averse family strongly against the idea of any significant loans.
As an adult, I’ve found stability and a career in music distribution, fully remote, living and working in my own flat.
Earlier this year I saw that BA have launched their Speedbird programme and this has reignited my passion and I have been preparing for next years application, refreshing maths, practicing interviews and conducting research to help my application. Despite this, I’m very aware that the odds of securing a place on a funded programme are stacked against me, even if this is my priority for now, I’m considering what my options would be if I cannot make it into this route. I believe I’ve got what it takes - I love learning about it, am an avid flight simmer and pass the mock aptitude tests online (I have a subscription to PilotAptitudeTest.com)
I know in my heart that this is what I want to do. With my secure job, I’ve been considering the modular route as an alternative option, which I could pursue whilst continuing in my current work. I know the ‘shortage’ is set to peak around 2030 and so know that the window is closing to make the most of this opportunity. I have also read that the shortage is mostly in experienced captains and that this is not necessarily yet filtering down to cadets and low hour, recently qualified pilots.
It’s such a big investment, I’m finding it hard to quantify the risks and build a realistic understanding of my chances in successfully achieving a job during, or after, training. I have some savings, with a schedule for how I can secure the rest of the money I’d need through my earnings and potentially moving home whilst I train, in order to rent out my flat. This leaves room to borrow any remaining funds if I need to expedite particular modules or need help getting over the line.
Can you provide any advice or information on how long it takes for newly qualified modular cadets to get their first pilot job? I know there are many factors that have an impact, but I believe in my abilities to be successful and pass with good grades. Im worried about putting my family and fiancée through the burden of supporting me, delaying marriage and potential children, if the chances are still stacked against me. I can’t find any concrete statistics on this online, only flight schools boasting of high employment rates for integrated schemes.
Thank you