BlueHenFR8Dawg

I've used the search key to research and save rehashing this on KAL, but I've had no luck. I've mentioned KAL in another thread and one or two had some negative advice. I'm looking at all of my options and don't want to burn a bridge with KAL. I'm looking at US regionals while waiting on my golden call from Atlas, UA, etc. Unfortunately, the regionals are giving me the thanks but no thanks? Too qualified? Labeling me a short-timer? I don't know? I can actually make more on unemployment, after figuring a crash pad, than flying for these regionals. I don't want to sit back and collect though.

As for other countries. I don't want to go to a Japan airline, as their training is approx 9mos and even then there's hoops to jump through; no disrepect. I know eventually, it's "you have to do, what you have to do". I just want to get some good experienced ex-pat, or even regional guys/gals advice. Thanks in advance.

The Dominican

You are talking about hoops and length of training as a reason not to want to go to Japan, and would want to go to KAL as an F/O?????
Hummmmm! I would seriously do some more research in the subject of being an F/O at ANY Korean outfit, specially their training length and their checking criteria. With your 74 time, if you want a good gig, flying in a relaxed atmosphere with other expats and an upgrade program, I would point you in NCA's direction.

Good luck with your job search

captjns

Far better off in Japan than Korea, especially as a new entrant. Koreans prefer their own rather than expats altogether. An expat FO will never see the left seat other than entering the cockpit wit KAL.

Other carriers that will upgrade, are located in the ME.

BlueHenFR8Dawg

KAL's training is 3mos compared to the nearly year long Japan training. I know the Japan contracts and QOL are good; there's plenty of threads about the Japan flying. I just haven't been able to read any threads about KAL's QOL, etc. Thanks guys.

captjns

Log on to PPRUNE.org. Many threads regarding KAL.

Typhoonpilot

Sending a lamb to the slaughter . That site has become a disaster for the most part. One would have to read through all the trash and personal attacks, which can be difficult to do.

I have two good friends at KAL. One has been there 14 years (A330) and another 5 years (B777). Both are excellent pilots, but more importantly know how to get along in the Korean Airlines culture.

The B777 guy would love to leave, but there isn't anything better out there for his situation. The A330 captain is much the same, but he makes the best of his life. They both pretty much live for their days off.

That is what makes working at Korean tolerable. You get the days off you want and you get positive space to/from your desired KAL destination. It's also one of the most stable expat contracts in existance with close to a 20 year history. Pity they haven't really raised the pay in that time.


TP

Controlled Rest

What is the objection to 6-9 months training? You get paid for it, and it's not exactly hard work. You get lots of days off and time off in between different parts of the training. As you say, the contracts and QOL are good. Isn't that what's important?

The Dominican

Agreed, that is precisely my point, you are looking at the training length???? Who cares? You are getting your entire salary during that time as opposed to a training salary at KAL, also the training failures at KAL are high! You will not like the QOL at KAL as an F/O, you are talking about the training period of 3 vs 9 months but what about your QOL while at work after you get on the line??? Not taking into consideration that you will be making 3K more per month If you were going for a captain's position then is another story but as an F/O? With no opportunity for upgrade, ever? I just don't know what on earth are you thinking! But hey! If three months of training is your sole motivation, by all means go for it.

The Dominican

He will get that at NCA plus about 30% more pay while the opportunity to a command on a 748 within 5 years. Pardon me but, What is it that we are discussing again?

Typhoonpilot

I agree with you Dom. It looks like NCA would be far better for an F.O. slot.

Was just partially answering with some KAL QOL tidbits.




TP