U.S. Pilots Sign On at Foreign Carriers
 

That is a pretty well written article.

TP

Outside of the US is where the $$$$$$$$$$ are. It takes an open mind, patience and understanding to work for as an expat overseas. The experience in the long run can be very rewarding.

The following statement is typical from a union rep, "Putting two pilots with different native languages in the same cockpit, where they might have to interact with an air-traffic controller whose native tongue is different still, can lead to problems, especially in emergencies, contends Dennis Dolan, a retired Delta Air Lines captain and president of the U.K.-based International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations, which represents pilot unions and associations in 95 countries." I have been flying outside the US for the better part of 15 years. Communications have improved a great deal over the years. There are some isolated cases however, but not where the big birds fly. The foreign nationals that I have flown with demonstrate a high level of professionalism too.

An expat working for a foreign carrier must respect both customs, and airline SOPs.

The writer of the article should have left references to air incidents out of his article do to some misleading facts.

Tell you what, it's the best move I have ever made. Have never looked back.

Phil Squares,

How'd you get started flying off shore? Where did you look for openings, etc?

There are many companies that provide off-shore airlines with contract pilots.

To name a few some of these contracting companies are PARC Aviation, Brookfield Aviation, Rishworth, Betts. They all have web sites.

You will have a good chance landing a job as captain if you have a type rating in a 737 or A-320.

I went "Ex-pat" last year... and having a great time, great pay, and benefit without the typical union BS, politics or whining.

do you need a JAA conversion? how much $ and effort does that cost and dont you usually need the legal right to work in the country you will be flying for? im pretty sure it takes years to get citizenship in another country?

It depends. Some contractors require a JAA conversion

The contracting agency can provide you with detailed information regarding the country's requirement regarding work permits, visas, etc...

There are flight schools in the US that can provide you with information about obtaining a JAA certificate. There are a few schools in Florida and Arizona that provide conversion courses.

Best bet if you want an agency is PARC. Avoid, Direct, Rishworth, Betts, IAC if possible.

There are several airlines that hire direct, SQ, CX, EK, OZ, CI.

Do a little internet search and you'll open the door.

Phil and any other happy expatriates,
I'm curious to know what airlines y'all are happy at. :confused:

I was very excited to start work for a foreign airline but that attitude changed within a matter of days. I try to be positive and I've stuck it out for about 9 months now trying to make the best of the job, but I have to say that I wish I had never come here. Again, I try to be positive and as happy as the conditions will alow, but difficulties and negativity are everywhere when on the job. I can count the number of happy expatriates I've met at this airline on one hand. Even national pilots don't like working here.