My name is Wil, and I am a first officer on the EMB-145. The aviation industry is quite bleak here in the States and being 23 years old, it is my goal to see the world as a pilot.
Can you make some recommendations of Asian or Middle Eastern carriers that employ expats? I read much negativity about the Cathay cadet scheme for experienced pilots. I was thinking SIA Cargo or Qatar as neither one require the turbine PIC.
Over here, with such little upward movement - it might be 10 years till my command on a regional aircraft in the states, and even longer till I make it to a 'major.'
The pay is quite poor over here too; the window washers, ticket agents, and lavatory technicians, all make considerably more than the entry level pilots.
Thanks for your suggestions!
Cheers,
Wil
Hi Wil,
As in a previous article here, an American pilot with FAA license will have restrictions working in Asia unless he converts his license to an ICAO one.
Having done that, you can then apply to many Middle Eastern or Asian Carriers. However, as a First Officer without an Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 rating and at least 500 hours on type or jet experience, your options are limited with even SIA Cargo or Qatar unless you try the Cathay Pacific Cadet Scheme.
Many Middle Eastern and Asian airlines are looking for experienced expat captains but very few want pilots without jet rated experience because there are many new pilots like you in the local market.
I believe there is no short cut to the ‘major’ airlines in the US. Most go through the Regional airlines.
If you can get into the Cathay Pacific Cadet Scheme, you get to fly good machines and I believe, the pay is not as bad as ‘window washers, ticket agents and lavatory technicians’ despite what is perceived negatively for expats pilots. That is one option as a stepping stone to fly in the ‘major’ in the US later on.
Wish you all the best
PS. To check for any latest updates or postings, you can follow my new Twitter at @CaptKHLim
