atpcliff

Hi!

I am looking at a job in Nairobi. I am waiting for them to send the ticket now (which is what they say they would do). I would NOT buy a ticket, unless you really also wanted to go there as a tourist, anyway.

If you're desperate, I understand buying the ticket, but then they may think that they can take advantage of you in other ways. If they really want you, they will send a ticket. For a corporate job, I would tell them it had to be Business Class or better, also.

cliff
GRB

rotorhead1026

Reimbursement for the initial trip is pretty much the standard over here. Maybe they'll give way a bit; I don't know. Some people take the ticket and never show up. All I can say is what you posted sounded legit. When I first came over here I thought I was stepping into one of Dr. Hawking's black holes. I understand your concern, but you won't get as far if you don't take some calculated risks. It's up to you ...

Capt LOGS

I have spoke with CB Menon before personally and do know people that have gotten jobs here in India through him so he is legit. I would push though for them to pay for the ticket out there. Usually when they need someone, they need them pretty badly and a ticket isn't too much to ask. Get your tourist visa now because it does take a bit of time. Good luck with your employment visa though, I had a bit of trouble getting mine and the next guy over in our company is still having trouble. As for Hospet, I don't know anything but I've been to bangalore numerous times and thats a decent city. But as with all cities, theres good parts and theres really bad. Be prepared for culture shock because it is much much different. If you have any specific questions go ahead and ask. I've been in India for bout 6 months now.

=Jason-

SkyKing67

What are your living conditions. Do you have A/C in your apartment. Have u been sick from the food, climate, or water. Would you bring your wife and 10 year old daughter? if you were me?

Capt LOGS

Yes I have good A/C in my apartment, if you don't demand that they install or fix it. Everyone will get sick at least once, thats how it is. Only drink bottled water, and don't eat food from a street vendor and you should be ok. The food IS different but at least in bangalore there is Pizza hut, dominos, papa johns, mcdonalds, tgif, etc etc. Bring your wife?? Of course, I have my GF here and really I wouldn't have lasted without her. Bring your daughter...well I don't know. yes there will be good schools for her I'm sure, and yes it will be more expensive but driving the CJ2 you should be making decent money at least and you can afford it. Will she like it? Most likely not, I don't think any kid would enjoy a different country like this, not knowing anyone.

Overall, its a whole different place with different customs. In India, A pilot is the MOST respectable job you can get....period. Be expected to be call Captain everywhere, and people jump to their feet to help you... I'm not exaggerating at least at the company where I'm at.

Somethings will suck, other things are awesome...it does take a certain person to beable to withstand certain things here. But the money is fantastic, and the CJ2 should be getting AT LEAST 9k/month with free housing, transportation, flights to the us, cook and driver.

Hope this has helped, if you want me to be more detailed or whatnot just ask or PM me.

=Jason-

rotorhead1026

Good post above. FWIW, I've never been sick; the only western food I eat is at breakfast.

Bangalore has a good climate - doesn't get as hot since it's at about 3000'. I'm pretty sure there'll be some good school options for your daughter - at least there were in Hyderabad, and Bangalore seems similar in many ways (many expats). She'll make friends and adjust, as will your OAO. Apartment options can vary a lot, but I'm thinking your employer will have something set up for you.

Hepatitis (twinrix for me), Japanese encephalitis, and typhoid vaccinations are recommended. I don't take malaria pills and don't know anyone that does.

The flying, especially ATC, can be interesting. It's been a good experience. I'm going home tomorrow (after two years). Good luck.

3GreenKSNA

Are the companies in India, looking for pilots with time on type?

I'm still doing the CFI thing at a 141 school that has a contract with Air India, yet no hope of getting a job with them. I've got about 1200/200 and considering going into ATC or just about anything other then instructing given the state of the economy. After 15 months I'm getting pretty burned out especially since I need to work 12 hours to make an ok living.

Capt LOGS

Honestly you would need double your hours to be competive and you HAVE to have 100 hours PIC on whatever type you going to be flying. Its DGCA (indian faa) rules.

=Jason-

Also expats are not allowed to be P2 on any indian registered aircraft.

flynavyj

Out of curiosity, Hospet and Bangalore, don't appear all that close, about 180 miles straight line. Unless there's a different Hospet that was being discussed. And from what you can see in a satellite image, Bangalore appears much more "modern".

Ottopilot

They can buy your ticket easy from there. Don't spend a dime. I'd call that a "red flag". I do recommend going to see India before you commit to a job there. I fly to India and I would never take a job or live there. I don't even want to fly there. You need to see it first hand and make your own choices.