captover05

Hi. I'm scheduled in Cape's September class and had a few questions for anyone that knows.

So how does the transition to the Caribbean work? Are any moving costs covered? What kind of housing options are available? Do pilots try to rent places together for the season? Are there any crashpads? I know the Caribbean can be pretty pricey and I'm just trying to figure out a ballpark estimate of what it would cost if I go down there for the winter. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

vtbvtdk

So how does the transition to the Caribbean work?
Since you won't be done with training until after the main bid takes place (August) you will likely either be assigned a base when training is complete, or you may participate in a Vacancy bid if one happens. You get a week to transition (paid) and the date of that depends on when the base you are assigned ramps up for winter flying. Since you will likely be in training until late-October at the earliest, it's likely you would transition at the completion of training.

Are any moving costs covered?
When you transition down there, you will get about $1500 (pre tax). The normal transition pay for New England to/from the Carib is $3000, but you only get half as a new pilot. After completing a season in a region, you will be eligible for the full transition pay if you move on the next system bid.

What kind of housing options are available? Do pilots try to rent places together for the season? Are there any crashpads?
All of the above. People usually rent together to keep the price down. Crashpads like you might find in major cities are rare because most people just stay down there for much of the winter. As a junior pilot, you will probably get a 5on/2off schedule, though you might luck out. As far as commuting, remember that you are going to be outstation based (read:not on SJU) so it might be hard getting to/from an airport that can get you back to the States.



Good luck, let me know if you have any questions with a PM!

captover05

vtbvtdk, Thanks for the info! That certainly helps a lot. I think I can swing it down there if I get sent to the Caribbean in the Winter. I'll pm you if I have more questions. Thanks again.

cubbies4life

I'll be in the Aug 29th class, anyone else gonna be in it shoot me a PM

yesyou

Did your class date begin as scheduled? I got the impression that HR has been on hold with the busy summer season.

I'm beginning to see Cape Air job postings on Cliimbto350 but haven't heard too much about anyone getting hired recently. Anyone been getting contacted lately?

cubbies4life

My class started on time and there are 2 more classes starting in October. There will be classes running all the way to April with a little break around the Holidays is what we're being told. Get your resume and online ap in and give the hiring department a call soon as classes seem to be filling.

TurboDVR42

PPL are bailing! Keep sending your stuff in

Cruz5350

Still not hiring FO's right?

clipperskipper

Still hiring F/O's, several currently in class. PM for info or if you'd like your resume
hand carried. Cape Air is attempting to be well staffed with pilots for 2012.

clipperskipper

The problem with HYA, EWB, and BOS is that all of the lifers are there. I understand that a couple of April hires are holding HYA for the Winter, not bad.