Is there currently any foreign carrier I can obtain a type rating on my own dime and get on with? Have they started hiring non-rated pilots in Asia yet?

If you provide your experience (total times, jet PIC times, check airman qualifications?) it would be easier to point you towards realistic options.

Although note recommended by any stretch of the imagination there is a carrier in Indonesia, Lion Air. They hire zero time in type. They are aligned with Eagle Aviation and Falcon Aviation too. Quite expensive and terms and conditions of the working contract are rather grim. If invited for the assessment, it will be on your own nickel.

I realize it’s tough to get a job with zero time on type, but paying for it rubs many the wrong way.

Given the fact that Lion Air has a less than stellar reputation within the airline industry as safety is concerned. That being said, perhaps it may be difficult to secure a job with a future carrier with a better reputation. One needs to be careful.

If you are young enough and have time as a first officer on large jets, try Emirates or Etihad as they hire first officers. On a flight with EK the other day, I had a chat with a new B777 skipper. He joined them 5 years ago with only RJ.

May be a better route to explore.

Either way, good luck and follow the road which will lead you to a better rewarding career.

Check your PMs

I don't get it, why would you want to do that? I'd discourage that idea for 2 reasons.

1. Without time in type, your rating isn't worth it's weight in poop.

2. You help to drag down the profession.

Believe me, I know where the idea comes from. I'm looking overseas as well, but I can't see thins leading to anything good.

I've only recently started researching and applying for these jobs but I've found several (Skymark, Air Japan, Shenzhen, etc) that don't require a specific type. Have you looked at the mins on the usual sites?

I cannot find a good paying job in the US. I am tired of flying turbo-props in war zones. I have tried for 15 years not to go as you say the "drag down the profession" route. I'm over all that BS and I look at it as an investment and a way to keep all the things I worked so hard for. No interest in going to a regional for no $. BTW I have time in type 737-300 with no type rating from back in 2004.

The unfortunate fact is that you're competing with people who do have time on type, hiring standards aside. You'll likely be spinning your wheels. People get over this hump by "knowing somebody". Network as much as you can, be sociable and flexible, and hang in there.

I agree that the phrase "dragging down the profession" is often self-serving, for those who are already employed (no offense to Senior Skipper). If you can't get a job otherwise, you do what you have to do. In that event, though, you may be dragging yourself down. If you're buying a type rating for a $4000.00 per month Captain slot in a dangerous part of the world, it's time to stop and think ...

B777 Captains - Korean Air *New Terms*

you are expected to buy your own type rating if accepted.